2026 - Issue 3
myVMIalumni, a new online community designed exclusively for VMI alumni, launched in March 2026, making it easier than ever for alums to engage and connect. In addition to each chapter and class having their own private space to communicate, alums can message anyone on the platform, explore an interactive map to see where alumni events are happening and who’s nearby. Alumni can also keep up with Institute and VMI Alumni Agencies news all in one place. There’s even a job board, making it easy to share or explore opportunities.
myVMIalumni is available on the web and as a mobile app in the Apple and Google Play stores, so staying connected is easy, wherever you are. It officially replaces VMI MobileAlum, which sunsetted in March. What you can do on myVMIalumni: • Connect with your class and local chapter • Find alumni using an interactive map • Discover alumni events across the globe • Message other users directly • Follow updates from VMI and fellow alumni • Post and browse jobs specifically for VMI alumni
Learn more online: vmialumni.org/myvmialumni/
and be sure to...
JOIN TODAY!
Virginia Military Institute
Contents
Alumni Review 2026-Issue 3
In This Issue . . .
PUBLISHER VMI Alumni Agencies Chief Executive Officer: Dallas Clark ’99 Chief Communications Officer: Amy Goetz Senior Director of Publications: Jordan Czekner Director of Publications: Mattie Montgomery Communications Officer: Scott Belliveau ’83 Designer: Joe Czekner Communications Officer — Features: Mary Price Staff Photographers: Joe Czekner and Mary Price
This issue includes class notes and news items covering the time period of Feb. 15, 2026, to May 17, 2026.
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Our Alumni Serving 3
ALUMNI REVIEW ONLINE vmialumni.org/alumnireview
Our Alumni Serving
PUBLISHING OFFICE VMI Alumni Agencies Alumni Review Office P.O. Box 932 Lexington, VA 24450 review@vmiaa.org | 540/464-7221
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Features
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Clark ’99: “Highest and Best Use” “Learn to Give Now:” Goodall ’66 Urges Support for Cadets Delisio ’52: Helping Astronauts Return from the Moon First Spring Reunion Second Spring Reunion
Volume 103, No. 2
PRINTER Walsworth | St. Joseph, Michigan
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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. Periodicals postage paid at Lynchburg, VA, and additional mailing offices. ATTENTION POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to: VMI Alumni Review P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450
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News and Updates
TELEPHONE NUMBERS VMI Alumni Agencies: 800-444-1839 540-464-7221
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WEBSITE ADDRESSES Alumni Agencies: vmialumni.org | VMI: vmi.edu
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Message from the VMI Alumni Agencies Board Presidents On Post Athletics Events Progress Class Notes Legacy Provisional Appointments Taps After Taps Alumni News Staff News
Out of consideration for the privacy of VMI alumni and friends, please refrain from using contact information found in Alumni Agencies publications or on the website for solicitation purposes.
Editor’s Note: Unless otherwise stated, photos courtesy VMI Alumni Agencies. Outside Cover: Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Frans Kasteel ’51 and Maximus Ankrah ’26, 1st Class president, prepare to lead an Old Yell for the Class of 1951 during the first spring reunion in April 2026.
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A Message From the VMI Alumni Agencies by
Will Collier ’06 VMI Alumni Association President
Kelly Sweppenhiser ’06 VMI Alumni Agencies Board Chairman and VMI Keydet Club President
When you receive this issue of the VMI Alumni Review, the Institute will be in the final days leading up to matriculation. The cadre will be back in barracks and preparing to guide the new rats through Matriculation Week and beyond. The staff will be putting the finishing touches on post and making everything ready for the whirl of Matriculation Day and the return of the Corps to barracks. After using their summer furloughs for professional development, as well as teaching summer school and supervising projects associated with the Summer Undergraduate Research Institute, the faculty will be preparing for a new academic year. Our fall sports cadet-athletes will be training for the upcoming season under the leadership of their devoted coaches. Importantly, Lt. Gen. David J. Furness ’87, VMI’s 16th superintendent, will commence his first full academic year since his appointment last fall. In late April, the VMI Alumni Agencies concluded its search for a new CEO with the hiring of Dallas B. Clark ’99. Anyone familiar with the Institute for the past two decades knows of Dallas’ many contributions to the Institute’s advancement, first with the VMI Alumni Association and then in positions of increasing responsibility with VMI, ending with his service as deputy superintendent for finance and support from February 2017–May 2026. He has forged a reputation for hard work, rock-solid integrity, strong leadership, and sound management. Dallas also brings to this position a thorough knowledge of the Institute’s day-to-day operations, its long-range challenges and needs, and the ever-more competitive landscape of American higher education. Under his leadership, the Agencies will continue to strengthen the bonds within the VMI family, increase support for VMI, and be an effective partner with the Institute’s leadership. As we enter this academic year, the VMI family—alumni, cadets, family, and staff—do so with confidence and resolve born of a commitment to VMI’s mission and the knowledge that the Institute is positioned to weather any challenges it may face. Earlier this year, the VMI family demonstrated their commitment by engaging members of Virginia’s General Assembly to ensure they understood the Institute’s value to the Commonwealth and the true nature of the VMI experience. Certainly, this outpouring of support by alumni, parents, friends, and—we are proud to note—cadets had a considerable
influence on delegates and senators and helped lead to a positive legislative outcome for the Institute and, therefore, all Virginians. We thank all those who made the effort to make a positive case for VMI to the General Assembly. This confidence and resolve are also underpinned by the sustained willingness of alumni, parents, and friends to provide financial support to VMI, a tradition that stretches back to the 1850s. Since then, alumni and friends have consistently come forward with generous gifts and commitments. In the mid-1970s, fundraising took a major step forward with the inauguration of the VMI Campaign, and the more mature fundraising approach established at that time has generated millions of dollars in gifts and commitments every year. Fiscal Year 2026 was no different. Although the details are still coming in—and they’ll be published in the forthcoming annual report—more than 4,300 members of the VMI family provided more than $37.9 million in gifts and commitments, ensuring that every young man and woman in the Corps of Cadets has an opportunity to excel at least as well as those who preceded them in barracks. Thanks to this sustained generosity, in the new academic year, private financial support will make up 30.4% of VMI’s $126.2 million operating budget. The Institute will use these funds to support almost every aspect of its academic and co-curricular programs, improving the experience of all cadets. Furthermore, hundreds of young people will have the opportunity to get one of the best starts in life—a VMI education—thanks to the more than $17.7 million that the Agencies will provide in scholarships. This summer, our great nation celebrated its 250th birthday. Since its own founding in 1839, VMI has remained true to our Founding Fathers’ belief that, if the country they established was to survive and thrive, it would need active citizens who resolved to value personal honor and the public good above personal gain. VMI’s long record of preparing cadets to meet that standard in barracks and after graduation and so make significant contributions to the security and prosperity of this, the Great Republic, is an object of “honest pride” to all of us. It also challenges us to do all in our power to ensure VMI will continue this noble purpose.
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John Williams ’88 VMI Foundation President
Our A lumni S erving Recognizing Those Who Serve Others in Their Communities, Country, and the World Are you or is 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-soldiers, 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. If you or someone you know is serving others, please submit a high resolution photo (1MB 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. 2026-Issue 3
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Alumni Connect While Serving in Egypt
Diehl ’06, Trujillo ’98 Reunite in Germany
U.S. Army Maj. Andrew Shea ’13 (right) and Capt. Kelly Russell ’17 connect atop Mount Sinai while deployed in support of the Multinational Force and Observers mission in Sinai, Egypt, in April 2026. Shea serves as the public affairs officer for Task Force Sinai, while Russell serves in the U.S. Army Aviation Branch as a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter pilot assigned to the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, out of Fort Carson, Colorado.
U.S. Army Lt. Col. John Diehl ’06 (left) and Maj. Gen. Kevin Trujillo ’98 meet up in May 2026 while supporting an exercise in Germany.
Kier ’14 Serves Alongside Alums in Germany 1
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U.S. Army Maj. Ben Kier ’14 participates in the 2026 Combined Resolve Exercise in Germany working with many alumni in mid-April 2026.
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1. Pictured (from left) are Kier, U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Eleyah Armstrong ’25, and U.S. Army Capt. Brendan McKee ’21. 2. (from left) U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Dakota Birdsong ’24 and Kier. 3. (from left) Kier and U.S. Army Maj. Nick Bracco ’15.
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Lemon ’14 Promotes to Major U.S. Army Mary Grace Lemon ’14 (left) with her daughter, Julia Rose, and parents, Joe and Julia Lemon, at her promotion ceremony to major Feb. 1, 2026. She has accepted her new position within the 82nd Airborne Division, serving as the 3rd Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment 3-4 ADAR Battalion executive officer and operations officer.
Partin ’14 Promotes to Major Virginia Army National Guard Maj. Johnny Partin ’14 is promoted to major at the John Randolph Foundation in Hopewell, Virginia, Feb. 22, 2026. Over 100 friends, family members, and co-workers came out to celebrate Partin’s promotion. Partin also completed the Joint Contingency Public Affairs Course at the Defense Information School located at Fort Meade in Maryland, and he continues to serve as a public affairs officer.
Cross ’14 Promotes to Master Sergeant Virginia Army National Guard Maj. Johnny Partin ’14 presides over the promotion ceremony for Master Sgt. Tyler Cross ’14 April 10, 2026. Cross serves as the senior truck master in the Virginia Army National Guard 1032nd Transportation Company based out of Gate City, Virginia.
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Chen ’15 Promotes to Major At the promotion ceremony of U.S. Army Maj. Clark Chen ’15 to major at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state are (from left) U.S. Army Col. Lucas Braxton ’98, Maj. Bryce Garrison ’13, Capt. Hunter Liu ’15, Chen, and Maj. Kris Wright ’14.
Meier ’19 Promotes to Captain U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Michael Meier ’19 (center) at his change of command ceremony with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, at the 5th Marines Parade Deck at Camp Pendleton, California, March 13, 2026. Pictured with him are U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Michael Banholzer ’19 (left) and U.S. Coast Guard Lt. j.g. Campbell Rutherford ’19.
Hart ’20 and Mills ’23 Reunite in Training U.S. Marine Corps Capt. William Hart ’20 (left), who serves as a Cobra pilot with HMLA-167, and 2nd Lt. James Mills ’23, who serves as a rifle platoon commander with 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines Regiment, Kilo Company, reunite in Twentynine Palms, California, during an Integrated Training Exercise in February 2026.
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U.S. Navy Alums Attend Badman Ball U.S. Navy Lts. Joshua Krogman ’21, Skylar Birdie ’20, and Alex Oshirak ’20 attend the Badman Ball for Carrier Air Wing 5 in Iwakuni, Japan, in April 2026.
Carrera ’22, Krese ’22, DiPrampero ’22 Promote to Captain U.S. Army Capts. Brian Carrera ’22, Ryan Krese ’22, and Alex DiPrampero ’22 all recently promoted to the rank of captain in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, while participating in the Engineer Captains Career Course in May 2026.
Alums Serve Together in California Serving together at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California, in March 2026 are (from left) U.S. Marine Corps 2nd Lt. Beckh Robertson ’21, U.S. Army Capt. Jack Jones ’21, and U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Joohuk Lee ’21.
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Clark ’99: “Highest
and Best Use” By Scott Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer
On April 22, 2026, John Williams ’88, VMI Foundation president and then-VMI Alumni Agencies Board chair, announced Dallas B. Clark ’99, then-VMI deputy superintendent for finance and support, would succeed David L. Prasnicki (Hon) as VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer. Clark assumed his new position June 8, 2026. Clark’s relationship with VMI began through two of his brothers: Jordan ’98, who matriculated while Clark was on a 2-year mission in Brazil for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and Ezra ’99, who also made the decision to attend VMI. They urged him to join them. “They made it very clear that there was something special about VMI,” Clark recalled. “They stressed the long-term payoffs: You’ll receive a great education. You’ll get a great job. You’ll make lifelong friends.” Clark’s parents were keen on him going, as well. All of them, however, told Clark the decision would have to be his. “I got in touch with Colonel Ed Sexton [Department of Economics and Business head from 1992–2005], and what he said about VMI convinced me I’d get a solid education.” What tipped the balance, however, were family ties. “I always had been very close to
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my brothers, and, after 2 years away, I wanted to be with them.” In the end, four of Clark’s brothers attended VMI, and a nephew graduated in 2017. Clark got a taste of working with alumni when he was a cadet assistant with Col. Sam Ratcliffe ’74, then-director of career services, assisting with job placement. Through that experience, he also came to know Adam Volant ’88, who served at the VMI Alumni Association from 1996–2018. The latter connection served Clark well a little more than a year after his graduation. He was working in Raleigh, North Carolina, in private industry when he contacted Volant to catch up, and Volant mentioned an opening at the VMI Alumni Association. Clark applied and was hired. There was one catch, he recalls: “When he called to tell me I was hired, Paul Maini ’66, who was then the executive vice president, told me, ‘We need you here for the next board meeting’—and that was 2 weeks away.” After a somewhat hectic move, Clark arrived on post in September 2000. His initial job involved new cadet recruiting, meaning he attended a lot of chapter events. “I was on the road constantly,” Clark said, “traveling all over the country, meeting thousands of alumni.
While it was tiring, it did allow me to see firsthand how impressive the alumni network truly is, as well as become acquainted with many great people.” In 2006, Clark, who received a Master of Business of Administration degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and had taken on additional responsibilities at the Alumni Association, joined VMI’s staff as the Institute planning officer. In that position, he was responsible for the Institute’s Strategic Plan, as well as such activities as facilities planning and emergency preparedness. His new role gave Clark an appreciation of the nature of higher education and the advantages VMI’s special nature gives it. “It’s all about outcomes—how many students graduate within 4 years, for example—and everything is measured. Then, you need to report those measurements to several governmental and non-governmental agencies.” As he got to know administrators at other colleges and universities in Virginia, he learned how VMI stood out. “I came to love our simplicity. We are purely an undergraduate institution. Every student is a cadet who is educated in the same manner and lives in the same place,” said Clark. “That simplicity
means we know what success for us looks like and so how to achieve it. “VMI also is distinctive in its mission—to transform young people into well-educated men and women who are ready to pursue lives of honorable success and selfless service. It is distinctive in its methods. It is distinctive in its outcomes. There aren’t many colleges in the United States, for example, that have approximately half of their graduating classes commission in the armed forces.” Clark reported directly to the late Brig. Gen. Robert L. Green ’67, who served as the deputy superintendent for finance, administration, and support from 2000–16. “Bob worked me hard, but he was also a great mentor. He gave me a lot of chances to expand my horizons by assigning me to various committees and so exposing me to all aspects of VMI.” Asked what he learned on those committees, Clark replied, “Too much to recount now, but one thing that stands out was gaining an understanding of how the physical plant and other support services work and how vital they are to our mission. Many people might not know this, but the people who work in these activities make up most of our workforce, and these people are as dedicated to VMI as any alumnus.” After a short stint as vice president and chief advancement officer at Southern Virginia University in 2016, Clark returned to VMI as the deputy superintendent of finance, administration, and support in February 2017. In that role, he oversaw such activities as finance and budget, auxiliary services, facilities management, the Post Hospital (infirmary and Center for Cadet Counseling), government relations, and the VMI Museums. While he has been on post, Clark has been involved in many changes at VMI. Asked for his thoughts about them, he replied, “Besides the successful integration of women into the Corps, two things stand out. First, that VMI came to see itself intentionally as a school of leadership, a college purposefully devoted to graduating honorable and effective leaders. That has given us a framework within which we evaluate what we do or plan to do. For example, we established the Center for Leadership and Ethics to improve cadets’ leadership experiences, as well as give VMI a significant role in the current national discussions about leadership. “The second thing is the permanent renaissance in our academic program led by an absolutely devoted faculty,” Clark continued. “By any measure, academics at VMI have extensively improved. We now offer our cadets an amazing range of opportunities within the academic program, many of which I wish I
had when I was a cadet. All in all, it has been a privilege to help VMI transform and to help map out its future.” As to why he applied for the position of Alumni Agencies’ CEO, Clark said, “I saw it as an opportunity to take more than a quarter century of experience and apply it to all that the Agencies does for VMI and the VMI family. I also thought that, as hard as it would be to leave Smith Hall after essentially two decades, opportunities like this are rare, and I’d regret not seeing for myself if I could add a greater value to VMI in a new role.” Clark is looking forward to many things in his new position, among them “being out and about among the alumni” across the country and around the world. “I want to communicate to alumni how much we value what they do for VMI,” he said. “Just the presence of them
“I fervently believe that ... VMI is one of the most consequential institutions of higher education in America.” on post has an impact. To anyone attending their reunion or coming back for an event, please know that VMI is better because you’re back. Your return demonstrates to cadets and everyone else here that you place a high value on your experience. “I always enjoyed engaging with the volunteer leaders on the boards of the Agencies while I was in Smith Hall,” said Clark. “I appreciate not only their generosity with their time, wise counsel, and strong leadership, but also their passion about making VMI an ever-stronger school. Engaging with them even more closely, I’m sure, will be exceptionally rewarding.” The Agencies’ presidents had the unenviable task of choosing among several strong candidates. According to Matthew Hemenez ’90, Alumni Association immediate past president,
Clark stood out for several reasons. He elaborated on a few: “Having worked with Dallas when he was with the Alumni Association, I saw his uncanny ability to prioritize the needs of the alumni, and we saw that that hadn’t changed. Also, Dallas’ experience with VMI, starting on the Alumni Association staff and steadily moving upward to become deputy superintendent, spoke volumes about his abilities. Finally, working with Dallas on many different areas over the last decade as a director, vice president, and finally president of the Alumni Association, I know his experience working with the General Assembly and the Agencies— and the many constituencies in between—will be invaluable in this new role.” Williams said, “We were looking for candidates with three qualities—passion for VMI’s mission, a track record of strategic execution across diverse activities and working with diverse stakeholders, and a bold vision for the future of the Agencies—and Dallas exceeded our expectations in these critical areas. “He also shares the bold vision of the Agencies’ leadership team and brings a unique leadership approach, which we are confident will inspire our talented staff to new levels of success in the future. Already strong, the partnership between the Alumni Agencies and VMI will be strengthened with Dallas Clark at the helm. He has an intimate understanding of how VMI operates and possesses a management style that is inclusive and trust-based.” Kelly Sweppenheiser ’06, who succeeded Williams as Alumni Agencies Board chair July 1, thinks Clark will help the Agencies be an ever-stronger source of support for VMI. “Dallas has a proven ability to drive unity by breaking down the silos which naturally occur in any organization. This unifying leadership will be a force multiplier as we strive toward a ‘One VMI’ mindset across our alumni base and within communities we serve.” Asked to sum up his thoughts on his new position, Clark said, “I fervently believe that ... VMI is one of the most consequential institutions of higher education in America. What our graduates have done in all sorts of places—to include those quiet, unspoken places where their contributions might be never acknowledged—has been extraordinary, especially considering our size. Everywhere you go, you’ll find our alumni doing the important work of our wonderful country and doing it with the determination, integrity, grit, and spirit borne of their time in barracks. I am truly grateful, therefore, to have this chance to put my experience to its highest and best use leading the VMI Alumni Agencies.” 2026-Issue 3
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“LEARN to
GIVE NOW ” Goodall ’66 Urges Support for Cadets By Mary Price, Communications Officer — Features “VMI is helping make these [cadets] the leaders of tomorrow. It sounds corny, but it’s exactly the truth, with the right foundations and the right values. And we need to do more. This country needs to do more. Other schools aren’t doing what we’re doing. We’re doing a better job.” That’s what Richard “Dick” Goodall ’66 says when asked why he makes supporting VMI such a meaningful philanthropic priority. Interviewed while on post for his 60th Reunion in April 2026, Goodall discussed his consequential VMI journey and the importance of alumni giving back to the Institute while they are still alive and can enjoy the benefit of meeting the cadets they’re helping. Goodall was also honored during his visit to post. In a brief ceremony held at the Aquatic Center, Goodall was presented with the Spirit of VMI Award, the VMI Keydet Club’s highest honor. Presenting the award were Andrew Deal ’12, Keydet Club chief operating officer and Alumni Agencies chief development officer, and Kelly Sweppenhiser ’06, Keydet Club president. Also present were Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87, superintendent, and a number of coaches of VMI’s NCAA athletic teams. Now a resident of Chestertown, Maryland, Goodall followed in the footsteps of his father, Richard B. Goodall, Class of 1931, in deciding to attend the Institute. There was no overt pressure to attend VMI, but his father’s example of honesty and integrity spoke louder than words, so in fall 1962, Goodall arrived on post to begin the Rat Line, and a year later, his younger brother, Douglas “Doug” Goodall ’67, joined him on post. Since that time, Goodall’s son, Taylor Goodall ’03, and his nephew, Doug
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Goodall ’04, have graduated from the Institute, making theirs a three-generation VMI family. During his cadetship, Goodall was a 4-year member of the Keydet swim team, serving as co-captain in his 1st Class year. He did not hold rank, remaining a private throughout his cadetship—a decision he’s still happy with today. “It doesn’t matter what rank you are; it matters what happens when you get out [of VMI],” he observed. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in history, Goodall served in the U.S. Army for 2 years before joining Dixon Valve & Coupling, a company his grandfather founded in 1916, and he remains actively involved in the business today. Like many people working in specialized industries, Goodall has a quick way of explaining what his company does. “It’s a manufacturer of hose couplings,” he said. “I mean, if you’re describing this whole room, you wouldn’t describe the hinges, but the doors wouldn’t work without hinges, and hoses don’t work without couplings. We make couplings for all sorts of hoses, from small water hoses to large oil transfer hoses and everything in between. We’ve been around for a long time. We’re pretty good at it, too.” Asked how the precepts he’d learned at VMI have guided his career in a fiercely competitive industry, Goodall answered with a reflection on the seamless integration of values between his family and the Institute. “Our business is 110 years old,” he noted. “One-half of 1% of companies last over 100 years. I’m convinced it’s not what we make or what we do; it’s how we do it and who we have doing it that makes a difference. ... I don’t think VMI changed me. I think VMI reinforced the values my family instilled in me for 17, 18 years before I came to VMI.
“There’s nowhere else you can give that’s going to return as much to this country.”
Richard “Dick” Goodall ’66 tours the VMI Aquatic Center in April 2026.
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Goodall ’66 receives the Spirit of VMI Award and attends his 60th Reunion in April 2026.
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“The things I’ve had an opportunity to do in civilian life, working for our company, in particular, is make sure that we mirror the values that we had at VMI,” he continued. “We never compromise honor and integrity in our business. Our job is to delight the customer, not to satisfy them.” Over the years, Goodall has endowed many scholarships and experienced the joy of getting to know some of the young people he’s helping. Among his treasures are thank-you letters from those cadets, many of whom are now alumni, recounting how they never would have been able to attend a college like VMI without scholarship support. “Over the last 10 or 15 years, our family has been able to give back to VMI through scholarships and to other areas of need,” he said. “The joys of giving back when you’re alive are absolutely incredible. It’s fine for people to say I’m going to wait and endow this or whatever when I pass away. But my recommendation is if you want to really see what’s going on at VMI and see the difference you can make, learn to give now, and do so to the greatest level possible. Talk to your recipient who gets your scholarship. Don’t wait—the return on it is so great.” Goodall has particularly enjoyed getting to know Kate Taylor ’24, a swimmer who won the Keydet Club’s three-legged stool award in 2024, an honor bestowed on a cadet-athlete each year who best exemplifies the VMI ethos of excellence in academics, athletics, and military discipline. “I was so impressed with her, and her appreciation is just amazing. She said she never would have been able to go to college, at least to this college, without that kind of help.” Getting to know cadets as he does, Goodall is convinced that VMI is making the world a better place, one young person at a time. “From the [cadets] that I have met, that we have been involved with, there’s no doubt in my mind that these people are going to make a difference, a positive difference, in the world,” he stated. “They carry on the values we sorely need in this country, of honesty and integrity. ... When you’re able to help people who maybe don’t have the advantage that your family has, help them out. It’s fun. It’s more than fun. It’s so satisfying.” During his reunion, Goodall was able to chat informally with cadets—and in many cases, hear how thankful they are for the VMI experience. “I had the opportunity to go to Crozet Hall for lunch, and a number of cadets came up and just talked to us,” he stated. “Some of them we were helping. And it’s just so heartwarming for these [cadets] looking you in the eye and saying thank you for your help. It wouldn’t have been possible without that, and that’s just wonderful. You’re not going to get that once you’re 6 feet under. Do it now. There’s nowhere else you can give that’s going to return as much to this country.” And while he’s a passionate advocate of scholarships, Goodall is quick to note there are plenty of other areas all across post, such as the Peay Endowment, infrastructure, athletics, the Center for Leadership and Ethics, and the chaplain’s office, that are equally worthy of support—particularly in an era where state funding cannot meet all needs. Goodall likens the impact of private support to the ripples that emanate once a stone is thrown into still water. “Your [gift] might be like the rock hitting the calm creek, and all the ripples go out from that. Some ripples aren’t going to go as far as other ripples, but unless you start throwing stones, there won’t be any ripples. ... Put your money where your values are. It’s so much fun, and it multiplies so many times.”
Interested in learning more about the ways you can support cadets? Did you put in long hours training for a match in the boxing ring? Was a professor willing to go above and beyond to help you understand a particular lesson in their class? Recall the moments that got you through the dark days of winter and the milestones that spurred you toward your coveted diploma. The young men and women of VMI are now chasing the same finish line, and you can help them reach it. Gifts to the Institute through annual giving, planned giving, reunion funds, endowments, and matching gifts from corporations and foundations support the extraordinary leadership opportunities that VMI continues to foster. Scan the QR code below with your tablet or smartphone camera to review the many ways you can make a gift to support the Institute.
You can also visit: vmialumni.org/ways-to-give
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Delisio ’52:
Helping Astronauts return from The Moon By Jim Dittrich ’76, Former VMI Alumni Association Historian
Following his graduation from VMI as an electrical engineer, Louis Charles “Lou” Delisio ’52 took a different route to success in the U.S. Air Force—not as a rated pilot, but as an engineer whose work helped bring the first American astronauts home safely from the moon. In 1969, with the help of a Pacific weather station, Delisio provided a critical weather adjustment to move the Apollo 11 splashdown away from a typhoon. This was a perilous situation, as Apollo 11 was the first mission to land on the moon, but it would have ended tragically without Delisio’s behind-the-scenes intervention. A humble man who avoided drawing attention to himself, Delisio’s most significant contribution to his country came as project manager over the U.S. Air Force’s classified HEXAGON satellite program, which launched satellites watching over the Soviet Union during the height of the Cold War. Prior to that, he worked on reconnaissance satellites similar to HEXAGON. In recognition of all that he’d done for his country, Delisio was awarded the Legion of Merit three times over the course of his career, and in one of those instances, in 1969, there were three names listed on the order granting the award: Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon; Buzz Aldrin, the second; and Delisio. It is notable that because of the extreme secrecy of the HEXAGON project and others like it, Delisio was never able to tell his family why he was being honored alongside such iconic astronauts. Delisio was raised in Haverstraw, New York, 18 miles south of the U.S. Military Academy on the west side of the Hudson River. He attended Haverstraw High School before matriculating at VMI. He held rank for 3 years, including as a lieutenant his 1st Class year. He and future U.S. Marine Col. George Ripley ’52 were study mates and remained close all their lives.
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Apollo 11 launches July 16, 1969.— Photo courtesy NASA Image and Video Library.
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Louis Charles “Lou” Delisio ’52 made substantial contributions to national security during his 25-year U.S. Air Force career.
Apollo 11 crewmen await pickup after a safe landing thanks to Delisio’s weather guidance.—Photo courtesy NASA Image and Video Library.
As a 1st Class cadet, Delisio won first place for his paper on semiconductors, which was presented to the American Institute of Electrical Engineering in New Orleans, Louisiana, during Mardi Gras. His work considered that transistors could one day replace electric tubes to be more dependable and portable. Without a doubt, he was ahead of his time, as this soon came to pass. During his cadetship, Delisio was close to Col. Lee L. Nichols Jr., Class of 1944, in the electrical engineering department. He graduated in 1952 with a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering and a commission in the Air Force. Soon after graduation, he married Mary Fowler, and the two had a son, Jim Delisio ’76, and a daughter, Toni. Delisio attended initial training at the Communications Officer Course and later attended the Missile Launch Officer Course and the Squadron Officer Course. Delisio had tours in Germany, Missouri, and France before earning a Master of Science degree in aerospace engineering. This led to a change in duty to acquisition management officer with a secondary in aeronautical engineering. As a Minuteman launch control officer and launch crew commander at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, Montana, Delisio’s crew code was Lima, and he joked that he was the head lima bean. He earned recognition for completing the Titan IIIB Design and Operational Course and came to the attention of U.S. Air Force Col. Frank Buzard, a noted figure in the space field, who had been Delisio’s first commanding officer and later recruited him to work on HEXAGON. Buzard stayed with the program until he retired in 1972 and remained a close family friend.
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This work also brought Delisio to the attention of U.S. Air Force Gen. Lew Allen, who commanded the Space and Missile System Organization and later served as Air Force chief of staff. Delisio soon worked as a project officer reporting to Allen regarding the Air Force’s secret HEXAGON project based out of a building at the Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, California. Planning for HEXAGON started in the mid-1960s, and the program was active from 1971–86. The HEXAGON satellite, also called Big Bird, launched into low orbit between 110-160 miles from Earth and used reel-to-reel film to photograph and map the Earth with a resolution of 2 feet. This was a great improvement over the previous resolution of 6 feet. As a Cold War military initiative, its focus was on the Soviet Union, China, Cuba, and the Middle East, and the highly classified focus was on finding and studying missile and submarine bases. As a result of this project, it was discovered that the Soviets had far fewer strategic missiles than originally suspected. It was also able to monitor Soviet missiles to ensure compliance with the SALT I Treaty of 1972, which limited nuclear arsenals. Delisio was a lieutenant colonel project manager, which included the responsibility of capturing the film capsule when it was dropped back to Earth. C-130 aircraft were used to grab the film module’s parachute and pull it into the aircraft. Of 20 launches, 19 were successful, at a cost of $3.3 billion. At one time, over 1,000 people worked on this project, with Lockheed building the actual missile. A sample of this missile is on display at the Air Force Museum in Dayton, Ohio. In addition to protecting the national interests of the United
States during the Cold War while conducting espionage activities on the Soviet Union, Delisio also helped America’s first lunar-landing astronauts return safely from the moon July 24, 1969. Summer is typhoon season in the Pacific Ocean, and as the time of splashdown approached, it became obvious that the plan originally developed by NASA would have Apollo 11 astronauts Armstrong, Aldrin, and Michael Collins landing in the middle of a raging storm. Because the majority of the HEXAGON program was classified, the exact details are buried in history, but it is known that, with his weather knowledge gleaned from the super-secret satellites, Delisio alerted NASA officials to the danger, and soon the landing zone was shifted to a safer site. At the time, even Delisio’s family did not know of his behind-the-scenes involvement in one of the United States’ most spectacular achievements of the 20th century. A few years later, Delisio found time to take his son to matriculate at VMI in 1972. Young Jim had heard VMI stories but never visited the school until his dad dropped him off. Delisio taught Jim how to shine shoes and not to take things personally—great advice for VMI. Delisio moved on to the Pentagon as a full colonel and to the Air Force staff, where he continued to manage technical projects, earning three Legions of Merit in 5 years. Among his assignments was heading the Space Division of the Air Force. There, he worked on an early warning system in case of a ballistic missile attack. During his time in the Pentagon, he renewed a friendship with an old friend, astronaut Collins of Apollo 11 fame. He had commanded the Command Module, flying 30 times around the moon, while astronauts Armstrong and Aldrin first walked on the moon. After retiring from NASA, Collins became the first director of the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum. After 25 years in the Air Force, Delisio and Mary decided to retire, and Delisio took a job with IBM managing their space program and later took a job with Hughes Aircraft. This quiet man retained a deep sense of duty his entire life. He enjoyed woodworking as a hobby. Delisio eventually retired again and lived to age 90, passing away in 2020. He is buried beside his wife in Arlington National Cemetery.
Author’s Note: Thanks to Jim Delisio ’76 and the VMI Archives for help received with this article.
Dittrich ’76 Closes Out a Legacy of VMI Storytelling This article is the last one retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. James F. Dittrich ’76 wrote on VMI history for publication by the VMI Alumni Agencies. Dittrich became the historian of the VMI Alumni Association in 2018 and retired from the position in summer 2026. In those years, Dittrich brought the stories of several alumni to the attention of the VMI family. He has written about such figures as John Sergeant Wise, Class of 1866, a New Market cadet who later befriended President Ulysses Grant, stood against racial segregation in Virginia, wrote several books, and sent five sons to the Institute; Albert K. “Bert” Earnest, Class of 1938, who received two Navy Crosses for his actions at the Battle of Midway in 1942; and Frank McCarthy, Class of 1933, whose extraordinary career included wartime service on the staff of George C. Marshall, Class of 1901, and decades as a successful motion picture producer who brought the story of George S. Patton Jr., Class of 1907, to the screen (it received multiple Oscars, including Best Picture) and who was a confidant of Marshall and two presidents: Harry S. Truman and Dwight D. Eisenhower. Dittrich’s service to the VMI family has not been limited to his historical work. He was a member of the Army ROTC staff and a tactical officer at VMI from 1983–87. A member of the VMI Alumni Association Board of Directors from 2004–26, he served on numerous committees, including the Executive Committee, and led the Alumni Engagement Committee. He was also the director of Midwest Region II from 2012–18 and for 25 years was the president of the Alumni Association’s Arkansas Chapter. He also was a member of the Class of 1976 50th Reunion Committee. Those who have known Dittrich through this service found him to be warm, friendly, and unceasingly generous with that most precious commodity: Time. In a recent interview, Dittrich said he was drawn to share the stories of these alumni because “it gives you pride in the place.” In this, he has succeeded because, among the VMI family, these stories have increased appreciation of the Institute’s vibrant and inspiring history and a greater pride in the accomplishments of our alumni and our school’s service to the Commonwealth and our country. We thank Dittrich for expanding the VMI family’s awareness of what he described as our “fantastic history” and for whetting our collective appetite for many more such tales.
Scan the QR code with your tablet or smartphone camera to view the collection of Jim Dittrich articles online.
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First Spring Reunion April 13–14, 2026
The following pages contain photo collages for each class in attendance at the first spring reunion. More photos of the classes and reunion are available online.
1951 1956 1961 1966 1971
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Second Spring Reunion April 24–25, 2026
The following pages contain photo collages for each class in attendance at the second spring reunion. More photos of the classes and reunion are available online.
Scan the QR code with your smartphone or tablet camera to view all of the VMI Alumni Agencies images from this event.
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The Honored Class
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On Post
Center for Leadership and Ethics Programming Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary
Looking Ahead: The American Spirit of 2026 As the nation celebrates its semiquincentennial, the CLE will turn its focus to the “American spirit of 2026,” drawing inspiration from the country’s founding while confronting contemporary leadership challenges. This annual theme will shape CLE speaker programs, civil debate initiatives, social media content, and the Institute’s flagship conference.
17th Annual Leadership and Ethics Conference: We the People VMI alumni are invited to attend the 17th annual Leadership and Ethics Conference, titled We the People, scheduled for: • Monday–Tuesday, Oct. 26–27, 2026 • Marshall Hall, VMI Post • Reception Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026
As the nation prepared to commemorate 250 years of American independence, the VMI Center for Leadership and Ethics guided cadets through a yearlong exploration of American character, with a focus on honor and integrity, in academic year 2025–26. Through debates, speakers, and immersive learning experiences, CLE programming connected the ideals of the founding era to today’s leadership challenges, which alumni recognize as essential to preparing citizen-soldier graduates.
Reflecting on a Year of Engagement CLE programs challenged cadets to wrestle thoughtfully with shared democratic core values emphasizing honor, service to country, and integrity. Signature events included: • •
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The Steamboat Institute Campus Liberty Tour encouraged rigorous debate on constitutional principles. Braver Angels public square dialogues fostered civil discourse in a community-wide, public format to discuss topics across the political divide. Courageous Leaders speaker events, featuring Chris Spence and Kyle Carpenter, Medal of Honor recipient, which also commemorated the lead-up to the 25th anniversary of the Global War on Terror. Multiple visits from retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Scott Mann, Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62 leader-in-residence, who captivated audiences with his one-man play, “11 Days: The Story of Operation Pineapple Express,” and emphasized the power of vulnerability and storytelling in leadership; during his visit, he also spoke with a variety of academic classes and the Army ROTC program.
This 2-day learning arc will guide participants through three core constitutional themes: • Ensuring domestic tranquility • Providing for the common defense • Promoting the general welfare Through major speakers and interactive learning exercises, the conference draws participants from peer institutions, senior and federal military academies, and lifelong learners. VMI alumni are always welcome and receive a registration discount.
Upcoming CLE Events • • • • •
Sept. 21, 2026 – Braver Angels Campus Dialogue Workshop (VMI civil discourse initiative) Oct. 1, 2026 – Steamboat Debate (public welcome) Oct. 25–27, 2026 – Leadership & Ethics Conference, We the People (public welcome) Feb. 26–27, 2027 – Cyber Fusion & Virginia Cyber Cup Competition March 23–25, 2027 – 37th Annual Environment Virginia Symposium
Additional programming will include Courageous Leadership speakers, the announcement of the 2026–27 Leader in Residence, further civil discourse initiative debates, and informal “food for thought” lunchtime discussions. For a full recap of the past year, look for the CLE’s Annual Year in Review newsletter—along with photos, videos, and event updates—on the center’s website, vmi.edu/cle. Alumni are encouraged to follow along and stay connected.
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On Post
Commencement Held for Class of 2026 By Marianne Hause, VMI Communications & Marketing The sun shone brilliantly May 17, 2026, as VMI held its commencement ceremony in Cameron Hall and conferred degrees on the Class of 2026. The ceremony was livestreamed for family and friends who could not attend the event in person. The Regimental Band played “Pomp and Circumstance” as nearly 260 cadets marched into the arena. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the first female cadets graduating from the Institute in 2001. Appropriately, the commencement speaker was Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger, who graduated from the University of Virginia in 2001 and is the first female governor of the Commonwealth. In his commencement address following his first academic year as VMI superintendent, Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87 welcomed the governor, the VMI Board of Visitors, faculty, staff, cadets, alumni, friends, and families. He thanked those in the audience who encouraged and sustained the cadets during their time at VMI and recognized veterans and current military members. To the graduates, he reminded them of the lessons and training they underwent at VMI, as well as the times they were the ones mentoring other cadets, including the Class of 2029. He commended them on leaving the Corps in good hands and, with heartfelt emotion, said, “You will forever be my first class of graduates as superintendent. I could not have asked for a better group of young men and women to lead the Corps this year. There were many distractions, but you overcame those obstacles and stayed focused on maintaining your honor and integrity while pursuing your degrees. I am proud of you and what you have accomplished.” Furness closed by noting that through the VMI Alumni Association’s Pass in Review program, the Class of 1976 forged a meaningful relationship with the Class of 2026 and gifted the graduates a commemorative coin
designed collaboratively by both classes to serve as a proud symbol of their bond. He then introduced the peer-elected valedictorian, Lukas Maurer ’26. Maurer, a civil engineering major from Lebanon, Pennsylvania, used the metaphor of sword forging to describe the VMI cadet experience, and quoted from the valedictory speech of Jonathan Daniels ’61, the alumnus Episcopal seminarian who sacrificed his own life to protect that of another: “We have been blasted by the fire in order to be tempered in mind and spirit.” Maurer compared a young matriculant to a rough, sharp-edged block of steel immediately thrown into a world of controlled chaos, confusion, and stress. He proceeded to explain how the graduates were formed and sharpened like a blade over each year of their cadetships. Maurer concluded by saying, “Today, my friends, you have made it! You are fully adorned, VMI-hardened blades prepared for duty in the military, academia, or in the civilian world. I am convinced you have made it through the most difficult college in the country. Regardless of the path we have chosen, we have all gone through the VMI forge together, symbolized by the numbers 2026 on our rings. Take pride in this brotherhood and the fact you have excelled through this forging process together.” Maurer served as cadre corporal and first sergeant for Company E. He was a member of the Honor Court and was inducted into the Omicron Delta Kappa and Tau Beta Pi honor societies. He is the son of Robert and Tessa Maurer and commissioned into the U.S. Army as an aviation officer. Maximus Ankrah ’26, class president, also shared farewell remarks with his brother rats. He pointed out that throughout their cadetships, there have been two VMI superintendents, two commandants, two governors of Virginia, and two presidents of the United States. “No matter who’s at the top,
See more photos online.
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On Post no matter who’s calling the shots, no matter the circumstance, we’re able to maintain our integrity and brotherhood as a class, bringing us closer and stronger together.” He spoke of multiple events the class experienced over their 4 years together that created the strong bond of brotherhood, including the recent Virginia General Assembly action affecting VMI. “Toward the end of February, when legislative bills threatened our school, arguably one of the most unifying memories of our cadetship, it was the leaders of this class, and the support of this class, that changed the trajectory in a positive way.” Ankrah reminded the graduates that through all the successes and challenges of being VMI cadets, they have truly mastered the system and are more than ready to graduate. “If you can make it through the toughest, hardest, grittiest military school in our nation, you can make it through anything. I have no doubt that you’ll find yourself to be more than worthy contributors to VMI’s rich legacy of honor and service. As long as you remember the credo that has been instilled in us since we were rats, ‘Everything’s earned, not given,’ and you always justify the space you occupy, you will no longer succeed within the walls of barracks; you will succeed within the limitless horizons that the world has to offer.” Ankrah then introduced Spanberger, who was warmly welcomed to the lectern. Spanberger thanked VMI for the honor of being the commencement speaker and expressed gratitude to the cadets for participating in her inauguration parade in January. “You might remember me as the person expressively trying to tell you something as you marched by, keeping straight faces, as you realized that my microphone wasn’t working, as I was desperately trying to grant amnesty,” she quipped. The governor read aloud VMI’s mission, “‘Virginia Military Institute believes that the measure of a college lies in the quality and performance of its graduates and their contributions to society. Therefore, it is the mission of Virginia Military Institute to produce educated, honorable men and women prepared for the varied work of civil life, imbued with love of learning, confident in the functions and attitudes of leadership, possessing a high sense of public service, advocates of the American Democracy and free enterprise system, and ready as citizen-soldiers to defend their country in times of national peril.’ “That is what makes this place special. That is your charge, Class of 2026, to set forth on a path wherein you will make contributions to our society.” She acknowledged that cadets are entering a world with significant challenges. “You’re the products of an academic institution that has been preparing leaders for more than 180 years. I have every confidence that you will leave Lexington not just ready to adapt to the world as you find it, but ready to use your talents to do your part to make it better.” She concluded by granting amnesty to those cadets with unserved penalty tours and confinement, to which the Corps, mostly the 4th Class cadets in attendance, broke out in raucous cheers. Three awards are traditionally given at VMI’s May commencement exercises. The First Jackson-Hope Medal for highest attainment in scholarship, accompanied by the Commander Harry Millard Mason Academic Proficiency Award, went to Macallister Jennings Clark ’26. Receiving the Second Jackson-Hope Medal for second highest attainment in scholarship, accompanied by the Colonel Sterling Murray Heflin 1916 Academic Proficiency Award, was Sebastien Patrick Chicas ’26. Nolan James Savard ’26 received The Society of the Cincinnati Medal for efficiency of service and excellence of character, accompanied by The Richard J. Marshall and Sumter L. Lowry Awards. The presentation of candidates for degrees was delivered by Brig. Gen. Robert W. Moreschi, Ph.D., dean of the faculty and deputy superintendent for academics, followed by the conferring of degrees by Furness. Then, Col. John P. Casper ’04, Institute chaplain, offered a benediction. Cadet Kimlong Nguyen ’27, the new regimental commander, relieved the Class of 2026 of their duties as they cheered and engaged in the time-honored tossing of their gloves, followed by an Old Yell and singing of “The Spirit.” 2026-Issue 3
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On Post
VMI Commissions Military Officers, Holds Parade in Memory of Fallen Alumni
By Marianne Hause, VMI Communications & Marketing
VMI commissioned nearly 140 cadets into the armed services at the annual Reserve Officers’ Training Corps joint commissioning ceremony in Cameron Hall May 15, 2026. Gen. Christopher J. Mahoney, 13th vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the nation’s second highest-ranking military officer, who arrived to post by helicopter, offered the commissioning officer remarks and administered the oath of office to the cadets beginning their journey of military service as second lieutenants in the U.S. Air Force, Army, and
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Marine Corps, and as ensigns in the Coast Guard and Navy. Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87, the Institute’s 16th superintendent, welcomed the nation’s newest military officers, their friends and families, faculty and staff, and members of the Corps of Cadets to the ceremony. He thanked the ROTC officers, cadre, and staff who were instrumental in teaching and mentoring the young officers, and acknowledged all the veterans and current military members in the audience.
Furness reminded the commissioning cadets that VMI has prepared them to face any challenge or adversary and how honor, courage, and commitment have been instilled in them. “These fundamentals will serve you well for the rest of your life. The time has come for you to take the next step in your careers and serve our great nation,” said Furness. He congratulated the cadets on attaining a commission, expressed his pride in them, thanked them for choosing to serve in the military, and wished them Godspeed.Furness then introduced Mahoney
On Post
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as a great friend and noted their paths crossed many times throughout their careers. Mahoney graduated from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, with a bachelor’s degree in economics and commissioned into the Marine Corps. He has served as a pilot with the Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron, known as the Bengals, as well as the fighter squadrons known as the Werewolves, the Crusaders, and the Bats. He has held command at the squadron, group, and wing levels. He is a graduate of the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course, the Marine Division Tactics Course, and the Navy Fighter Weapons School, commonly known as TOPGUN. He holds two master’s degrees, one from the University of Canberra in Australia and one from Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama.
Mahoney shared he was honored and humbled to speak at VMI, which he described as hallowed ground. To the commissionees, he stated that the era of America’s uncontested dominance is over, noting the challenges the newly commissioned officers will face. Mahoney then cited legendary VMI alumni like Lt. Gen. Chesty Puller, Class of 1921; Lt. Gen. Charles Kilbourne, Class of 1894; Maj. Gen. William Upshur, Class of 1902; and Gen. Lemuel Shepherd, Class of 1917, who all faced dire situations in battle, but instead of hesitating or panicking, they relied on the steel VMI put in their spines. “They did not shrink from violence. They stepped into the breach.” He warned the new officers that because these VMI legends set such a high standard, the military has high expectations of Institute graduates. “When a commander sees a VMI ring on a
finger, they don’t see a recent college graduate; they see the ghosts of VMI. They expect you to be unbreakable; they expect you to lead from the front, and they expect you to navigate chaos without losing your bearings. Virginia Military Institute has given you the discipline and uncompromised standard. The rest is up to you.” He then asked the commissioning cadets to stand as he administered the oath of office. Afterward, brother rats gave each other congratulatory hugs as the audience applauded and cheered. Following the ceremony, the separate military branches conducted individual pin-on ceremonies at various locations on post. It was there that the newly commissioned officers followed a tradition of presenting a silver dollar to the active service member or veteran from whom they received their first salute. 2026-Issue 3
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On Post
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On Post
Memorial Parade Honors Fallen Alumni On May 15, 2026, the Memorial Parade was held, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of all alumni who died on the field of honor, including the Mexican-American War, the American Civil War, the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, the Marine Barracks bombing in Lebanon, the Persian Gulf War, and the Global War on Terrorism. The large garrison flags were flown at half-staff, by order of Gov. Abigail Spanberger, in memory and respect of Peace Officers’ Memorial Day, a fitting backdrop as all 591 alumni names were somberly read by Cadets Stone Gardner ’28, Sophia Lurey ’28, Garrett Maye ’28, and Jamie Rodriguez ’28. A wreath was laid at the foot of the monument, “Virginia Mourning Her Dead,” as well as at the three barracks arches. A prayer led by Col. John P. Casper ’04, Institute chaplain, was followed by the firing of a three-volley salute. Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87, superintendent, joined Col. Lawrence “Ley” Havird ’90, commandant, in taking review of the parade as the Corps marched from the Parade Ground down Letcher Avenue and ended in barracks.
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Athletics
VMI Lacrosse 2026 Season Continues Program’s Upward Trend The 2026 VMI lacrosse season showed the program continues to improve and will continue to be a force in the Northeast Conference. While the season saw its ups and downs, the Keydets finished the season strong by winning their final three games of the year to qualify for the program’s first postseason appearance in 4 years, as the Keydets had not qualified for a conference tournament since their final year in the Southern Conference back in 2022. At the NEC Tournament, the No. 4 seed Keydets put up a good fight against the No. 1 seed and tournament host, Robert Morris University, where VMI battled to a 12-5 loss in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, April 30, 2026. Beau Durkin ’28, attackman, and Adam Norris ’26, goalie, were named to the All-Tournament Team as Durkin registered a hat trick while Norris logged 13 saves against an aggressive Colonial attack. Six Keydets earned NEC postseason recognition as coaches around the league took notice of VMI’s talent. Dayton Bagwell ’27 achieved First Team All-Conference honors while Durkin, Jack Duncan-Bloom ’27, and Greg Peters ’28 received Second Team All-Conference recognition. In addition, Ethan Ostrowski ’29, midfielder, and Alex Seaton ’29, defenseman, were named to the NEC All-Rookie Team. The turning point of the season came after consecutive double-digit
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losses to Cleveland State University and Robert Morris, with only a month left to play in the regular season. The Keydets faced a daunting trip to Long Island University April 11, a team which at the time shared the conference lead with Robert Morris and was 3-0 in league play. Unfazed from two straight losses, the Keydets rebounded by going up to Long Island and earning a 10-8 upset over the Sharks to put the Keydets back in the picture for postseason qualification. VMI handled business senior day with a 13-6 win over Wagner College April 18 to set up the opportunity to qualify for the postseason in the regular season finale at the University of Detroit Mercy the following weekend. The Keydets were dominant from the start as they built an 8-1 lead by halftime against the Titans en route to an eventual 14-5 victory to earn a berth to their first-ever NEC Tournament. The Keydets showed resilience in other victories throughout the season as they rallied from behind to achieve wins over Monmouth University, Queens University at Charlotte, and Hampton University in non-conference play. VMI also showed toughness in a 19-12 loss to the U.S. Naval Academy Feb. 17 after trailing by just two at halftime. With a strong contingent of starters and underclassmen with significant playing time returning to the roster in 2027, the future looks bright for the VMI lacrosse program.
Athletics
VMI Baseball 2026 Season In Review » VMI went 28-27 overall, earning the fifth-most wins in a single season in program history and the most wins since 2010. » The Keydets earned a winning record in backto-back seasons for the first time since 2010–11. » VMI’s 22 home wins were the most since 2007 and the second most all-time. » Sam Roberts ’11, head coach, became the fastest coach to reach 100 wins and moved into third all-time with 108 victories, surpassing former skippers Scott Gines ’83 and Donny White ’65. » Grayson Fitzwater ’26 was named Southern Conference Preseason Player of the Year and first-team All-SoCon, with Bradley Garner ’28 and Owen Prince ’26 also receiving preseason honors and going first-team and second-team, respectively. » The Keydets had four record postseason awards, with Fitzwater named to the first team, Cole Raile ’27 on second team, Prince on all-defense, and Buddy Baker ’29 on all-freshman. » Fitzwater earned back-to-back SoCon Player of the Week honors in March.
» Fitzwater shattered two single-season records with 21 homers and 50 walks, while Ayden Schnarrs ’28 broke the single-season hit by pitch record with 28 beanballs. » As a team, the Keydets swiped 181 bases, the third most in program history and second most in the nation. » VMI’s five shutouts were the most in program history. The staffers’ 6.31 ERA was the lowest since 2017 (not counting the 2020 shortened season). » Fitzwater now owns five career records with 61 home runs, 145 walks, 483 total bases, 214 games played, 223 RBIs, 1,492 putouts, and a .989 fielding percentage. » Raile led the team with a .347 batting clip and 70 hits. He was also named to the Buster Posey National Collegiate Catch of the Year Midseason Watch List. » On the hill, Hunter Sipe ’26 boasted a 3.76 ERA and five wins in 29 appearances, and the thirdmost appearances in VMI single-season history. Also producing five victories was Baker.
All athletic photos courtesy VMI Athletics.
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Athletics
Track and Field 2026 Outdoor Season Recap The 2026 outdoor track and field season was another successful campaign for VMI, as the Keydets earned multiple individual titles at the recent Southern Conference Championships and All-Conference honors. » Cameron Thomas ’27 won the men’s pole vault individual title at the Southern Conference Championships to earn All-Conference recognition. » Morgan Fraser ’27 won the women’s high jump individual title with a height of 5’ 6”, which ties for the second-best height in program history. The mark also gave her All-SoCon honors. » The VMI men took sixth place at the SoCon Championships with 50.5 points. » The VMI women placed seventh at the SoCon Championships with 37.0 points. » Naturale Faison ’28 earned All-Conference honors by placing second in the 100-meter dash, while Reagan Gilman ’28 also achieved All-SoCon by arriving in third in the 800-meter. » Ruth Dickersheid ’28 came in fifth in the shot put with a new personal-best distance of 41’ 11.50”, the sixth-best shot put in program history. » Besides Thomas, Deonte Harris ’29 also registered All-Conference honors in the triple jump by placing second overall with a distance of 14.37 meters. » Gilman broke her own school record in the 800-meter by running a 2:07.67 in 13th place at the UVA Challenge, beating her time of 2:10.50 set 1 week prior at the JMU Invitational. » Thomas broke his own school pole vault record in the first meet of the outdoor season at the SoCon-Big South Challenge, where he vaulted a 5.11-meter (16’ 9.25”), besting his former school record mark of 16’ 8.75” set in 2025.
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2025–26 VMI Rifle Highlights
2025–26 WATER POLO RECAP
Athletics
» The Keydets won seven games, making it the first consecutive seasons of seven-plus wins since 2019–20. » VMI defeated Siena College, giving the Keydets their first conference win in 4 years. » Sadie Smith ’26 was a Three-Legged Stool finalist, earned the Frank Summers Team Leadership Award, and had a team-high 39 assists to go with 50 goals, 28 steals, and 24 drawn exclusions. » Sadie Smith’s 205 career goals ranked fourth all-time, and her career assists of 151 were a program best. » Sydney Smith ’26 earned the Almond Award, led the team
with 57 goals and 87 drawn exclusions (overall points leader with 170), and set the single-game record for drawn exclusions with nine in a win over Siena. » Sydney Smith’s 220 career goals were a second all-time best in program history; 241 career drawn exclusions ranked second, with 87 this season being the second-most in a single year. » Maddie Day ’27, Sarah Fitzsimmons ’27, Meagan Riding ’27, Sadie Smith, and Makynna Smith ’28 were all named to the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference All-Academic Team (3.20 or higher GPA).
» Alex Pohlman ’28 became the first member in VMI rifle history to earn an NCAA Qualifier invite and set a program record in the NCAA Qualifier. » VMI mixed team scored victories over The Citadel, Wofford College, and John Jay College of Criminal Justice while facing seven top-20 teams along the way and hosting No. 1 West Virginia University. » The teams finished 4-5 at the Southern Conference Championship, improving aggregate scores. » 10 Keydets qualified and competed in the Junior Olympic Championship. » Pohlman claimed the Virginia state air rifle title, and Darian Tweedell ’27 was third in both air rifle and smallbore. » Five rifle members competed in the Winter Air Gun Championships.
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Athletics
2026 FOOTBALL SChedule VMI athletics and VMI football officially announced the 2026 schedule. The 2026 schedule features VMI’s first-ever Week Zero game, to be played at Idaho State; a visit to Blacksburg, Virginia, for the Institute’s first matchup against Virginia Tech since 1984; and non-conference matchups against Bucknell University and at Davidson College before opening Southern Conference play. VMI will have a total of five home games in 2026, four of which will come against SoCon opponents. The Keydets will also face a new conference foe for the first time, visiting Tennessee Tech Nov. 7 before hosting The Citadel for the annual Military Classic of the South Nov. 14.
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Aug. 29 @ Idaho State University* (Week Zero)
Sept. 5 @ Virginia Tech*
Sept. 12 Bucknell*
Sept. 19 @ Davidson College*
Sept. 26 @ Samford
Oct. 3 Mercer
Oct. 17 @ Wofford
Oct. 24 ETSU
Oct. 31 @ Chattanooga
Nov. 7 @ Tennessee Tech
Nov. 14 The Citadel
Nov. 21 Furman
Asterisk: Indicates non-conference contest. Bold: Indicates home contest.
Events
Centex Chapter Receives Award Centex Chapter members receive the 2025 VMI Alumni Association Distinguished Chapter Award Feb. 15, 2026.
Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter February Breakfast Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter members enjoying a senior breakfast Feb. 17, 2026, are (seated, from left) Torrey McLean ’67, Alan Tashima ’71, Bill Gibson ’65, Kirk Hubbard ’57, Paul Johnston ’61, Larry Wilson ’62, (back, standing) Jim Brown ’76, Chip Davis ’77, John Kuchnia ’57, Rick Hening ’75, Parky Parkman ’66, Jerry Hughston ’66, and Bill Murchison ’70.
Clark ’99 Visits Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter Dallas Clark ’99, VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer, addresses Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter members during a visit while serving in his previous role as VMI deputy superintendent for finance and support Feb. 20, 2026.
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Events
Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter March Breakfast Enjoying the Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter senior breakfast March 17, 2026, are (from left) Bill Murchison ’70, Torrey McLean ’67, Parky Parkman ’66, Jim Brown ’76, Bill Gibson ’65, Alan Tashima ’71, Larry Wilson ’62, Lane Toomey ’74, Roger Rosenfield ’47, Will Bynum ’77, Pete Shelley ’74, Paul Johnston ’61, and Kirk Hubbard ’57.
Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter April Breakfast Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter members gathering for a senior breakfast April 21, 2026, are (seated, from left) Alan Tashima ’71, Barton Pasco ’77, Paul Johnston ’61, Roger Rosenfield ’47, (standing) Will Bynum ’77, Bill Gibson ’65, Lane Toomey ’74, Jim Brown ’76, Pete Shelley ’74, Bill Murchison ’70, and Ed Andrews ’70.
Pensacola Chapter Enjoys Lunch Pensacola Chapter members gather for lunch March 5, 2026.
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Events
Southwest Florida Chapter Gathers for Breakfast Southwest Florida Chapter members enjoying breakfast in Bonita Springs, Florida, March 29, 2026, are (from left) Gary Gilmore ’62, Bill Bird ’81, John Paganelli ’57, Walt McMann ’85, Rick Katorincek ’55, John Cavedo ’64, Steve Wilson ’68, Jeff Golden ’99, Jackson Todd ’06, Matt Reimann ’21, Jim Williams ’66, Buck Miller ’68, and Jeff Adler ’81.
Utah Chapter Enjoys Ski Weekend Left: Skiing on the Pioneer Ridge of Park City during a weekend of skiing in Park City, Utah, Feb. 6–8, 2026, are (from left) Margaret Poast, Dawn Kratzenberg, Deb Smith, Parke Smith ’79, John Poast ’87, and Dean Kratzenberg ’87. Right: Utah Chapter members close out a day of skiing at the Park City Prime Chophouse and Piano Bar.
Rockbridge Chapter Meets Basketball Team The Rockbridge Chapter gathers with the VMI basketball team in Crozet Hall at an event hosted by Roberto Robinson ’80, Alumni Association Region VIII – Southwest VA/Shenandoah Valley director, April 27, 2026. Pictured with Andrew Wilson, VMI basketball head coach, and his staff and players are Robinson; Kristel Clark; Jeff Gausepohl ’65; Vicki Nuckols Kruze; Philip Clayton ’72; Ava Tucker; Uldis “Buzz” Birzenieks ’64; Jane Birzenieks; Ken Coleman ’71; Marie Coleman; Steve Chapin ’75; Sherie Chapin; Allen Morgan ’75; Sandy Morgan; Melou Piegari; Mary Alice Wright; Columbus Cartwright ’62, chapter treasurer; Phyllis Cartwright; Evan Haberman ’76; Margaret Haberman; Jay Thompson III ’86, chapter vice president; Robin Thompson; Barbara Thompson; Charles Keen III ’76; Betsy Keen; William Wells ’63; Art Nunn ’75; Alexis Gonzalez ’25, VMI Alumni Association director of alumni engagement; Scott Risser ’75, chapter president; and Barbara Risser.
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Events
“You Are the Difference”
Scholarship Banquet Celebrates Philanthropy By Mary Price, Communications Officer — Features On a warm April afternoon that felt more like June, members of the VMI family gathered in Marshall Hall to acknowledge and celebrate the philanthropy making cadetships possible for so many members of the Corps of Cadets. This year’s VMI Foundation Scholarship Banquet, held Saturday, April 18, 2026, attracted approximately 200 fund representatives and their guests, along with almost 100 cadets. The annual event, hosted by the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees each spring, is held in grateful recognition of donors’ philanthropy. At the scholarship banquet, donors are seated with cadets holding their scholarships, allowing donors to get to know the men and women benefiting from their generosity and cadets to become acquainted with the individuals who have made supporting academic scholarships a priority. Kicking off remarks at this year’s banquet was John Williams ’88, Alumni Agencies Board of Directors chair and VMI Foundation president, who began by noting that private support greatly lowers the cost of attendance for VMI cadets. “Out of 15 colleges and universities surveyed in Virginia, VMI’s total cost of attendance on campus is the fourth most expensive college, but because of your generosity and your philanthropy, the actual cost of attending across all bands of family income is the lowest of those 15 or close to the lowest of those 15,” Williams shared. Next, he welcomed Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87, superintendent, to the podium. Speaking at his first Foundation Scholarship Banquet, Furness emphasized the far-reaching impact of scholarship donors. “The impact of a college education on a young person’s life is almost incalculable,” he stated. “You are the difference between attending and non-attending, or
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attending an institution like ours that truly transforms young men and women into the best versions of themselves,” the superintendent continued. “It would not happen without your hard work and generosity.” That generosity has an eye-popping number behind it: Furness told those attending that since the year 2000, scholarship donors have provided almost half a billion dollars in direct support for cadets. “The Foundation Scholarship Banquet is a special event where we can see the results of the investments you have made in the Institute that we all share today,” he stated. “Today, you can connect with the many cadets you have directly benefited from your donation, and they, in turn, can thank you for your assistance, help, and gratitude.” Like Williams, Furness pointed to the economic benefits that flow from a VMI degree. “Each of us knows that VMI is an excellent choice, not only because we provide such a strong foundation in leadership and honor, but because pursuing a VMI degree is a great economic decision,” he said. After graduation, VMI alumni move directly into their chosen paths, with 97% employed or pursuing graduate studies within 5 months, the superintendent noted. “VMI is the only school in the Commonwealth that boasts a six-figure positive return on investment for every degree program, including a $600,000 positive [return on investment] for our English majors,” Furness remarked. “Our graduates are successful and make an impact in the Commonwealth and the workforce, as well as our military.” As he wrapped up his remarks, Furness turned his attention to the Institute’s greatest strength: The people who make up the VMI family. “Our greatest asset of VMI has always been our people and the positive effect they have in our communities, Commonwealth, and nation,” he
Events stated. “We all play an important role in our ongoing success and mission moving forward. Your loyalty is unwavering and absolutely essential to our success.” Speaking last and offering a heartfelt tribute to the power of philanthropy to shape lives was Cadet Skyleigh D’Ambrosia ’26, lieutenant on the S5 (public relations) staff, EMT, and cadet chaplain. A biology major who wears academic stars, she fell in love with research under the mentorship of Col. Ashleigh Smythe, Ph.D., Department of Biology head, and plans to go to graduate school in that field. An out-of-state cadet hailing from Massachusetts, and the child of a single mother, D’Ambrosia was in danger of not being able to return for her 1st Class year when family finances took a sudden turn last summer. Not sure what to do next, D’Ambrosia found her way to the Office of Financial Aid, where she was told that scholarships would be provided so she could complete her cadetship. “I had built a very strong foundation over nearly 3 years at the Institute, and when it all felt like it was going to crumble, it was you [donors] who were there to back me up,” she explained. “It was your generosity and your kindness and your continued support through the Foundation that was the answer to my prayer,” she said. “Because of your kindness and your generosity, not just me, but all the members of the Corps are able to come to [VMI] and succeed.” “I can only hope that you will continue to support VMI as much as you have long before I was here,” she concluded. “I can only hope that I’m as amazing and as generous with hopefully my future fortune as all of you. I really don’t think I have all the words to thank all of you, not just for what you’ve done for me, what you’ve done for the Corps.”
See more photos online. “Our greatest asset of VMI has always been our people and the positive effect they have in our communities, Commonwealth, and nation.” 2026-Issue 3
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Events
LEGACY DAY 2026
By Mattie Montgomery, Director of Publications More than 300 guests, including 184 children and teenagers, arrived at VMI for Legacy Day 2026. From rock climbing walls to engineering exploration through drone simulations, the annual event—designed for youth ages 5-18—invites alumni and their families back on post to share VMI’s spirit and traditions with the next generation. Legacies began the day with a buffet-style breakfast in Cocke Hall before splitting off into different age groups for activities around post. The day included rock climbing and the Leadership Reaction Course in the Corps Physical Training Facility, an obstacle course, a museum tour, meeting Moe, engineering demonstrations with drone simulations, and a barracks tour. For the legacies aged 15-18, the schedule also included an admissions briefing, providing prospective cadets with an overview of VMI’s application process, academic programs, and cadetship. The event concluded with all legacies marching down from Third Barracks to Crozet Hall for lunch. Over 40 cadets volunteered their time throughout the day, supporting activities and welcoming attendees on post. Alexis Gonzalez ’25, Alumni Association director of alumni engagement, reflected on the impact of the event on attendees and leading her first Legacy Day since joining the Alumni Agencies. “As this was my first Legacy Day, it was enlightening to see how much work goes into this activity and how much the legacies and their families love this day,” said Gonzalez. “Once you step past those gates in New Barracks arch, you enter a special community filled with stories, shared challenges, and lifelong friends. It was awesome to see and hear all the kids who had not met before having those bonds during the Legacy Day experience—especially the older kids who had to rely on each other to make it through the Leadership Reaction Course. They now have a shared experience that turned them from strangers to friends within a matter of minutes. “I am extremely grateful and honored I got to be part of the magic this year and watch the friendships and community grow throughout the day,” she continued. “It was a bittersweet moment for me watching the newly affirmed ‘Legacy Day cadets’ marching proudly down to Crozet with huge smiles across their faces.”
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Events
More photos online.
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Progress
“A Strong and Significant Understanding” Constitutional History Program Among a Select Few Nationwide By Mary Price, Communications Officer — Features At first glance, it’s easy to think the features that make VMI unique are the ones easily observed: Gothic Revival architecture, an emphasis on physical fitness, and a Spartan lifestyle marked by military discipline. Academics don’t come to mind quite as easily—but over the past 6 years, thanks to the support of alumni and friends of the Institute, VMI has quietly developed one of the nation’s few constitutional history programs offered by a liberal arts college. “When this started, a driving idea was that 50 to 60% of our cadets go into the uniformed services and swear an oath to the Constitution,” said Brig. Gen. Robert “Bob” Moreschi, Ph.D., deputy superintendent for academics and dean of the faculty. “Another sizable percentage go to work for a three-letter agency and swear an oath to the same document. Given our mission to produce citizen-soldiers in support of American democracy, it made sense for our graduates to have a strong and significant understanding—a deep understanding—of the Constitution.” The program was made possible by a gift from Conrad M. Hall ’65, a former member of the VMI Board of Visitors, VMI Foundation Board of Trustees, and VMI Investment Holdings, LLC. Since then, it has also received funding from other sources, including the Jackson-Hope Fund, which is dedicated to supporting academic initiatives at VMI. Thanks to the impact of substantial private support, the constitutional history program begins in the classroom but goes far beyond the walls of Scott Shipp Hall. The class, History 300, U.S. Constitutional History, covers the history and legal and judicial interpretation of the U.S. Constitution, the document that has guided the federal government and provided civil rights and protections for U.S. citizens since the late 18th century. Leading the program—which provides field trips, speakers coming to post, and much more to enhance cadet learning—is Lt. Col. Mark Boonshoft, Ph.D., associate professor of history. Boonshoft, an early American historian who came to VMI in 2022 to head the constitutional
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history program, holds the Conrad M. Hall ’65 Chair in American Constitutional History. The study of the U.S. Constitution begins, of course, with examining British constitutional traditions, since much of the U.S. government and legal system is based on British models. Then, Boonshoft explained, cadets delve into constitutional history questions in the news today, including but not limited to the Second Amendment, executive power, the Constitution in wartime, reproductive rights, religious freedom, and more. “I joke every once in a while at the beginning of the semester that everything we talk about in this class is everything you shouldn’t talk about at Thanksgiving,” said Boonshoft. He’s quick to note, though, that the class is apolitical, and rather than focusing on cadets’ personal views on any contentious issue, discussion centers on what the Constitution has to say on the subject and how courts and Congress have interpreted that document. “What we do when we tackle those themes is basically try to put in historical perspective the current controversy, or the current case, or the current debate,” said Boonshoft. “How did it evolve through the courts? How did it evolve through congressional action? How did it evolve through constitutional amendments? We try to give cadets a sense of how the Constitution—because it is amendable and its meaning is interpreted by the Supreme Court—has changed over time and what has forced or impelled those changes.” Each time the course is taught, the topics covered shift slightly to highlight current events and special anniversaries. This spring, for example, capital punishment was a focus, as 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of Gregg v. Georgia, a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision that reaffirmed the court’s support for the death penalty. There was also an emphasis on the American Revolution, with the nation marking the 250th anniversary of its independence this summer.
Progress Because HI 300 is a discussion-based class with a heavy emphasis on assigned readings, class sizes are kept small, with most sections numbering 12 to 15 cadets. The class size cap is very intentional: Moreschi noted that smaller classes invite an exchange of ideas in ways that larger ones do not. “You’re not going to have a discussion with 40 people, but with 12 to 15, you can,” he observed. Such small class sizes, while ideal for cadets, require substantial faculty support, so in addition to Boonshoft, other faculty teaching the class include Maj. Madeleine Ramsey, Ph.D.; Maj. Bryant Etheridge, Ph.D.; and Maj. Mattie Webb, Ph.D., all assistant professors of history. Moreschi noted that, for faculty, teaching this class for the first time requires extensive preparation, since there are no graduate programs that train constitutional historians. Currently, more than a third of cadets are required to take the class, as it’s a requirement for those majoring in history, international studies, and economics and business. Pending funding, the long-term goal is to make HI 300 a requirement for the entire Corps. Outside the classroom, cadets attend lectures and presentations by constitutional scholars and legal experts. Each September, a Constitution Day event is held on post commemorating the Sept. 17, 1787, signing of the U.S. Constitution. Notable events take place in the spring semester, as well, such as this spring’s program on the constitutional history of capital punishment in the United States. With support from the Jackson-Hope Fund, cadets even travel off post to attend oral arguments at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit in Richmond, Virginia. Almost always, judges make time after court proceedings are concluded to meet with cadets and answer questions. “These are some of the more powerful judicial figures in the country,” said Boonshoft. “[Going to the court] is something that can’t be recreated in the classroom—seeing the way judges are processing constitutional questions in real time. The sophistication with which these issues are adjudicated is something you can’t see in class.” Hall, meanwhile, is delighted to see how far the program has come in the 6 short years since Col. Turk McCleskey, Ph.D., now professor emeritus of history, first taught a constitutional history course in fall 2020. “When I joined the [VMI] Board of Visitors in 2014, I noticed there was not an option to study how our democratic republic was structured and how it was intended to function,” he commented. “It seemed to me that our graduates needed to know this—to know what they were being trained to protect and defend,” he continued. “This led to discussions with Dean Moreschi and others over a couple of years, during which time I proposed to fund a chair to help create the new course. Finding [Boonshoft] resulted in a magnificent addition to our faculty, and he has done a terrific job launching the new course. It is my hope that it will become a prerequisite for graduation, just like passing the swimming test. I am most grateful for the dean’s early enthusiasm and continued support.” Moving forward, Moreschi hopes to have the financial resources to hire enough faculty to make the course mandatory for all cadets, while retaining the out-of-classroom features such as field trips that make the learning experience so unique. “We have the faculty nucleus, curriculum, and programming to eventually make HI 300 a foundational component of the core curriculum,” Moreschi stated. “As we progress in this direction, we believe this initiative will not only help VMI to better fulfill its mission to develop citizen-soldiers, but it will also be a model other colleges will seek to emulate within their own mission.”
Left Page: Cadets pose for a photo with Hon. James A. Wynn Jr. and Hon. Albert Diaz during a visit to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit in Richmond, Virginia, in 2024. Also pictured are Majs. Madeleine Ramsey and Bryant Etheridge, both assistant professors of history.—Photo courtesy Lisa McFarland, court photographer. Top: Cadets ask questions of Andrew J. O’Shaughnessy, historian and author, in Gillis Theater in Marshall Hall in September 2025. O’Shaughnessy’s visit to post was part of VMI’s observance of Constitution Day.—VMI Photo by H. Lockwood McLaughlin. Bottom: Cadet Owen Johns ’28 speaks with O’Shaughnessy during O’Shaughnessy’s visit to post in September 2025.—VMI Photo by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.
To support the constitutional history program, scan the QR code. Checks may be sent to the VMI Foundation, with “constitutional history” on the memo line, and mailed to P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450.
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Progress
Class of 1976 Presents 50th Reunion Gift The Class of 1976 presented its 50th Reunion gift of $12,101,019.76 to the Institute during the reunion parade April 25, 2026. Pictured to the right taking review of the reunion parade April 25, 2026, are (from left) Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87, superintendent; Dexter Gilliam ’76, class president; Bill Bhatta ’76, class agent; and Ray Ramos ’76, Reunion Committee chair. Pictured below during the check presentation at the reunion parade are (from left) Crissy Elliott, VMI Alumni Agencies interim chief executive officer; Bhatta; Ramos; Gilliam; and Furness.
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Progress
Compete to Win Showcases Support for VMI Athletics By Mary Price, Communications Officer — Features Held March 24–26, 2026, Compete to Win, the VMI Keydet Club’s fifth annual crowdfunding campaign, brought in $331,805.88 in support of the operating budgets of VMI’s athletic programs. This year’s event attracted the support of 749 donors, 80 of whom were new to the Keydet Club. As in years past, supporters were invited to direct their gifts to any of VMI’s NCAA sports teams or to the Athletic Director’s Discretionary Fund, branded as Value Makes Impact. An impactful social media campaign featuring cadet-athletes and their coaches, along with Jamaal Walton ’07, VMI director of intercollegiate athletics, helped to propel support both in the days leading up to the campaign and throughout it. Momentum kicked off quickly, with the women’s water polo team reaching its initial goal of $10,000 on the second day and ultimately raising $14,051.71. The third and final day saw even more support for cadet-athletes and their coaches. Value Makes Impact surpassed its $40,000 goal, with $44,741.01 raised in total. For the second year in a row, Walton packed his bags and made good on his promise to spend a night in barracks as a cadet if the Athletic Director’s Discretionary Fund achieved its goal. Other notable successes included the men’s basketball team exceeding its $30,000 goal, raising $33,416.09. Additionally, the men’s and women’s swim and dive teams surpassed their $25,000 goal, raising $26,684.52, while the men’s and women’s rifle team also went over its $20,000 goal, ultimately raising $20,170.31. Football, now under the direction of Ashley Ingram, new head coach, surpassed its $40,000 goal, with $50,664.82 raised. This year’s effort was supported by a nationwide and global community representing 39 states, Washington, D.C., and the United Kingdom. “Compete to Win continues to showcase the passion and commitment that surround our cadet-athletes and coaches,” said Andrew C. Deal ’12, Keydet Club chief operating officer and Alumni Agencies chief development officer. “We are deeply grateful for the alumni, parents, and friends who came together in support of VMI athletics during this 3-day effort. The strength of this community, and the generosity behind it, make a lasting difference for our cadet-athletes. We are thankful to everyone who helped make this year’s campaign a success.”
3749DAYS. DONORS. $331,806 RAISED.
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Class Notes
1946
David M. Hudock ’97
Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 1946.
know him and helping preserve some of his memories for future generations of VMI alumni. As always, I remain available to friends and family of 1947 and always enjoy hearing from you all. On behalf of the Class of 1947, I wish you all the best.
1948B Lisa Tracy
1947
Jonathan Safrit ’10
Roger Rosenfield, the only verified remaining member of the Class of 1947, continues to do well and remains, in his own understated words, “vertical,” which he considers reason enough for a good day. Shortly after writing these notes, Roger will celebrate his 100th birthday in June—an extraordinary milestone for a member of an extraordinary generation. Those who know Roger understand that reaching a century of life is only part of the accomplishment. Even now, he remains engaged with the VMI community, attends the VMI Raleigh breakfast when he is able, and continues sharing stories and memories that serve as a living connection to VMI during the World War II era. Over the course of many conversations, Roger has shared vivid recollections ranging from his matriculation journey to Lexington during wartime, to memories of the cavalry detachment’s final days, to his service after being drafted into the Army and sent to study Japanese at the University of Chicago before serving with the 77th Infantry Division in occupied Japan. Each story is equal parts history lesson and a reminder of the character of that generation. Last year at this time, members of the Raleigh Chapter of the VMI Alumni Association and I gathered to celebrate Roger’s 99th birthday, and it was impossible not to notice the admiration and affection shown to him by alumni spanning multiple decades of VMI history. I suspect his 100th birthday celebration will be no different. Roger represents not only the Class of 1947 but a rapidly disappearing generation whose experiences, humility, and devotion to VMI deserve to be remembered and honored. On behalf of the Class of 1947, I extend congratulations and best wishes to Roger on this remarkable occasion. It has truly been an honor getting to
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Dear Brother Rats, Families, and Friends of ’48B, As I write to you, the Class of 2026 is entrenched in finals week and looking forward to graduation, while this issue will reach us all as the incoming rats of the Class of 2030 are experiencing matriculation, haircuts, and the Rat Line. I plan to attend the Memorial Parade and will be thinking of you all and wishing you were here as the Corps marches out from barracks and returns via Letcher Avenue past the statue by Moses Ezekiel ’866 in front of Nichols Hall. But the Class of ’48B is not sitting idle. I spoke with George Ramsey as he was preparing to head off with daughter Harriet to Smith Mountain Lake in the Blue Ridge Mountains southwest of here. Their destination, he said, is a family house that has been there as long as the lake itself. He remarked that it’s a great destination, especially in springtime, and as we spoke, our Virginia dogwoods were still in bloom. With “six children scattered around” in the greater Lynchburg area, he said, he is keeping busy. I caught up by phone with Angus and Nancy Crook in their Nashville home just after I’d returned to Lexington via Amtrak from New York City to Charlottesville, and I mentioned to Angus that we had passed through the Culpeper, Virginia, area en route. In an earlier conversation, Angus had mentioned a family reunion in Culpeper, and as we are both train enthusiasts, this led us into quite a discussion of the railroads of yesteryear and today. I recalled that when I was growing up in Lexington, the branch of the C&O that brought cadets to town was still in operation, though that didn’t last. If you were to visit the site of the old train station here today, you’d discover that the building still exists, though it has moved about a half block uphill and is occupied by the ODK Honor Society National Headquarters. We had earlier discussed his Culpeper family connection, and he reminded me that it was from
Culpeper that his namesake, Angus McDonald Green ’876, came to VMI, earning the distinction of being, at the time, the youngest graduate of the Institute. For many years, the family ran the local newspaper, the Orange County Review, and Angus mentioned that last summer saw the celebration of the 200th anniversary of ancestor Judge John Williams Green’s entertaining the Marquis de Lafayette at the Culpeper family home, Greenwood. It serves to remind me of the Institute’s many and often surprising connections to our nation’s history. And as always, that reminded me of what an honor it is to serve as ’48B class agent. So, I hope this finds you all well and enjoying summer’s end and that you’ll send your news and also any memories of the Institute my way! With All Fondest Regards, Lisa T.
1949A
Jonathan Safrit ’10
As another summer comes to a close and the Corps prepares to welcome a new class into barracks, the Class of 1949A sends its congratulations and best wishes to the matriculating Class of 2030. Though separated by generations, the experience they now begin remains tied to the same traditions, challenges, and enduring bonds that shaped the men of ’49A nearly eight decades ago. Over the last year or so, my conversations with Harrison Whitten have become something I genuinely look forward to. Whether discussing the Chesapeake Bay, classic cars, Richmond history, or the long story of his family’s business, each conversation has offered not only wonderful stories but a living connection to a generation of VMI men whose experiences helped shape the Institute we know today. Harrison has always been exceptionally generous with his time, and I remain deeply appreciative of every conversation we have shared. As Harrison continues his journey toward the extraordinary milestone of 100 years old, I know the entire VMI community joins me in wishing him continued health and happiness. Men like Harrison are increasingly rare, and it is a privilege to help preserve even a small part of their stories for future generations of alumni. As always, I remain available to the friends and family of 1949A and truly enjoy hearing from
Class Notes you. On behalf of the Class of 1949A, I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable close to the summer season and all the best as we head into the fall months.
1949B
Ding Patton
These notes cover the period from Feb. 15–May 15, 2026. Tom Altizer called several times to let me know how good the weather was in Florida (as compared to Virginia) and recently let me know he would be a bit late in returning to Staunton for the summer. He had to have a procedure done there to get relief from kidney stones before coming home. He said that kidney stones caused the worse pain he had ever had, even worse than the wounds he suffered from combat in Korea. Nobbie and I attended the VMI Foundation Scholarship Banquet at the Institute sponsored by the VMI Foundation. In the Foundation president’s remarks, he said that among the 15 public colleges in Virginia, VMI was the fourth most expensive, but after awarding the scholarships available, it was at or near the bottom of the list in actual costs to the cadets. I was really impressed at the number of people in attendance who had established scholarships. It was probably because of our ages, but Nobbie and I were seated at the head table with Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87, the new superintendent, and his wife and other dignitaries. They were delightful to be with, and we enjoyed the day. The Valley Chapter of the Alumni Association held its New Market Day celebration at the New
Class of 1949B: Ding and Ella “Nobbie” Patton with Matthew Hart ’99 at the Valley Chapter New Market dinner in May 2026.
Market Museum. After dinner, the guest speaker was Col. Keith Gibson ’77, VMI Museum System executive director, who spoke on the history of, and improvements to be made to, the museum and the Bushong House. Greg Nelson called and said that he was in healthcare at Westminster Canterbury in Richmond as a result of recently discovered pneumonia but expected to go home in a few days. I apologize that so much of these class notes are about my activities, but that is what you get if you don’t send me your information. Recently, all I have done for the class is forward the death notices of our deceased brother rats. There are just eight of us left now, so maybe it is time to quit trying to have something here quarterly. Let me know what you think. God bless America, VMI, and ’49B. Yours in the Bonds of VMI, Ding
1950B
Robert F. Lynd
“Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more!” for “these are the times that try men’s souls.” Well, that’s a bit strong for an opener, but there is some cause for it. The country is in the throes of primary elections, and midterm elections are pending. Some states are hastening to redraw voting district maps. And the nation is involved in trying to prevent Iran from building a nuclear bomb. By the time you read this article, it will be mid-August, and many of these issues will be resolved one way or another. Most of us can do little to influence the outcomes—we can only sit by and pray for the best. Now, on with the news. If you looked at the “author block” at the top, you should notice I am no longer living in Roswell, New Mexico. Nancy and I moved into an independent living apartment in Albuquerque in mid-March. Our two children live here, and our daughter, who has turned into a mother hen, put her foot down and said that, at our ages (?), being in Roswell 200 miles away was just too far, and we had to be in Albuquerque. (Talk about role reversal!) We thought we were happy living in Roswell for 50 years, but her arguments and those of the rest of the family made sense. It all happened very fast: The search for and deciding on an apartment, making arrangements for and selling the Roswell house, moving some things
to Albuquerque, buying new furniture, etc. Finally, it all came together, and we are now settled in an apartment which is 5 minutes from my son and 8 minutes from my daughter. I sent out a last-minute plea for input about a week before my article was due, and I’m delighted to report I had some response. Not all good news, however. Had a sad note from Bert Jolly. His wife, Marie, died April 17. They had been married for some 66 years. He said they had a joyous family reunion in her hospital room the last 4 days of her life. All their children and grandchildren were present, and there was a lot of guitar playing and singing. It must have been pretty good because the hospital chaplain came in and asked them to sing louder. Enter the following link in your browser to view an obituary for Marie in the Marin Independent Journal: marinij.com/obituaries/marie-l-jolly-sanrafael-ca/. Bert’s been living in California, near the San Francisco area, for years. Much of his family is relatively nearby, so he has had their company. He and Marie used to love to hike, and they did that wherever and whenever they had the opportunity. Although most of the time it was around the California countryside, Bert sent a photo of Marie and himself enjoying a respite (eating polenta) in the Italian Dolomite town of Seis after some hiking. Bert, and later Marie, had to give up hiking a couple of years ago, but I’m sure he treasures their hiking days’ memories. I know I speak for the class, Bert, in sending our deepest sympathy for your loss. I got a somewhat cryptic response from Frank Fugate to my plea for info. He replied with a simple “nada,” which tells us very little. Guess that means nothing is going on. At least we know he is still alive. Hang in there, Frank. Tom Kirk dropped me a lengthy email. I had not heard from him for the last Alumni Review article. I now know why. Both he and Ann were laid up in hospital for about a week with some mysterious problem. Discovered Tom had a gallstone and a stomach infection; Ann suffered from fatigue. She’s back to normal and playing lots of golf at age 90. But Tom still feels a bit weak and has to “slow down at the gym for another week or two.” Slow down at the gym? Lord luva duck, some of us can’t even get to a gym! He first said he had no trips planned for this summer. And then he remembered he’s been invited to be a guest of a big South Korean affair in Washington, D.C., the weekend of June 5 to honor Korean veterans. He wants to go but dreads the plane ride. I told him the solution to travel by plane these days is a wheelchair. Yep, that’s the 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes absolute best way to get around airport terminals. When we were planning our trip back east for our reunion, my daughter said to arrange for wheelchairs for Nancy and me. I said, “No way. I’m in pretty fair shape, and I don’t want people to think I’m some fuddy-duddy old man.” Darling daughter’s response was, “You are a fuddy-duddy old man, and you are going to order wheelchairs for the two of you! No ifs, ands, or buts!” So, I did, and I have to say it was marvelous. You pass through TSA very quickly with virtually no waiting. The pushers get you to the correct gate on time—even if there are gate changes. They seem to get word of such changes and saved us a lot of hurried walking. Rules require the wheelchairs to have (licensed?) pushers. My two kids followed along, so they also benefitted by the rapid transit. On another topic, Tom said they had been thinking about moving into something like we have done. But one of the “downs” to him was the big, upfront money. I told him that was not our case. There is one place here that wants a buy-in of around $300,000. But the trend here seems to be a simple rental arrangement. We paid 2 months’ rent up front and a monthly rent thereafter. No long-term contract. I could leave tomorrow. I know many of you reading this are already living in some kind of “old folks” apartments. But those of you contemplating such a move, see if a rental style of arrangement is available. Braxton Green wrote to remind us that they have been living in Commonwealth Senior Living in Charlottesville for 2 years. He says, “It ain’t the best, but it’s livable! We are on a meal plan, breakfast and dinner each day. We fend for ourselves for lunch! We’re having a beautiful spring here in Virginia and love all the birds who come to the feeder on our balcony. No, we’re no longer driving, and gave our car to our grandson! Luckily, we have three of our sons in the area who help us get around—two here in Charlottesville and one in Staunton.” Brax’s living setup sounds very similar to what we are “enjoying” in Albuquerque. However, I’m still able to drive and get us to our medical and dental appointments, which seem to be innumerable. Well, that’s all the news that’s been reported. It’s good to get feedback and know some of you are still functioning. I can hardly believe, as I’m writing this, that it has only been a year since our reunion. On the upside, it’s only 4 years until our 80th. Probably about time to start saving up for the expensive air flights to and from. Those of you
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who live in Virginia really should put the prospective date of mid-April 2030 on your calendars. I asked Jim Flippen how his granddaughter, Emily, did on the 50th anniversary season of the CBS reality show “Survivor.” You may recall she was on the show before and was one of the ones recalled for the anniversary. She hung on until the 25-something group was whittled down to seven. Then she was voted off. The show has a few more episodes before the final one, which is held in Los Angeles, where the winner is announced. Of course, Emily will be there, and her son and his wife have been invited to attend. Turns out, Emily was paid about $80,000 for her participation. She’s a real adventuress. She was invited to attend college in Singapore, and she did for 4 years—tuition-free! She also was provided visits home each year. Jim has another daughter who works at W&L and keeps him posted on the happenings in Lexington. Here’s an idea. Commenting on the 11 of us remaining, Jim suggested we might buy a bottle of champagne that would be drunk by the last man standing. We’d need to work out where to keep it stored in the meantime. Hmmm. Whaddaya think? In the meantime, keep praying for the Institute’s survival. I’m sure you are aware of the Virginia governor’s and legislature’s (particularly the Senate) efforts to reduce VMI to just another state college. Fortunately, their actions have sparked the interest of the federal government—primarily the War Department. The loss of VMI to the military establishment would fail to produce such leaders as Air Force Gen. Dan “Razin” Cain ’90, the current chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. So, with all these weighty issues in mind, I bid you fond adieu. Keep your morale up. Rah Virginia Mil. ¡Hasta la próxima vez!
Class of 1951: Frans Kasteel; Matthew Hart ’99; and Mr. Henley, a friend, at Taps in Lexington, Virginia, during the 75th Reunion in April 2026.
Class of 1951: Frans Kasteel and Matthew Hart ’99 at Taps in Lexington, Virginia, during the 75th Reunion in April 2026.
Class of 1951: Frans Kasteel and Alexis Gonzalez ’25, VMI Alumni Association director of alumni engagement, at the 75th Reunion in April 2026.
Class Notes Frans Kasteel reports he had a great time being back in Lexington for the 75th Reunion. My daughter repurposed Henry Baxley’s VMI jacket into a pillow, reusing both the front and back gray wool jacket detail, along with the red lining as the edge pillow trim. This little piece of VMI is now out in my living room, giving me good memories of his time in Lexington. God bless all of you, and God bless VMI.
1951
Ursula Baxley
Class of 1951: Henry “Jigger” Baxley’s VMI jacket before it was repurposed as a pillow.
Class of 1951: The pillow made from Henry “Jigger” Baxley’s VMI jacket.
1952
Mary Lanford Price
Dear Class of 1952 Family, I have not heard much news from the class since the holidays, but I do unfortunately have some sad news to share. Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. John F. “Jack” Roche III of San Diego, California, passed away Jan. 4, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer. He was 95. I can’t tell you exactly how I heard of his passing, other than I hadn’t heard from him in a while and began to get the sense I should Google for an obituary. Sadly, my instincts were correct. I sent an email to his email address, knowing that family members often monitor email after a loved one has passed, and a few days later, I received a phone call from John’s longtime partner, Mary Kelley, who recounted his passion for VMI and determination to keep living the life he loved, right up until the very end. “He wore his VMI ring every day,” she shared, adding that he had hoped to come east for his 75th Reunion next spring. Col. Roche’s BRs foresaw a life well lived when
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Class Notes they wrote in the Bomb, “Jack was attracted all the way from Albany, New York, to the ‘West Point of the South’ with the hope of attaining an R.A. commission. He also brought with him a love of athletics and the desire to excel in anything attempted. He was quick to show his prowess on the track as a top ‘440 man.’ His ability with the books established him as one of the top ‘lounge lizards’ in barracks. Rodney’s esteem in barracks was indicated by the honor of being elected by his classmates as co-editor of this Bomb. Need more be said?” His obituary noted, “John was born Aug. 11, 1930, in Albany, New York, to John and Marion (Spayne) Roche. Upon graduation from Virginia Military Institute in 1952, John was commissioned into the U.S. Marine Corps. During his 25 years in the Marine Corps, John was most proud of having commanded troops at every level, concluding with the command of 31st Marine Amphibious Unit, which he led during Operation Eagle Pull in April 1975. Eagle Pull evacuated U.S. embassy staff from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to Navy ships in the Gulf of Siam. Another career highlight was serving as the naval attaché to the U.S. ambassador in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 1969–71. “In retirement, John was a renaissance man, exploring many of his interests through a variety of positions more fully than he had been able to while working. These included skydiving and financial planning. He was a published playwright of ‘An Evening with the General.’ John taught political science at Palomar College and the University of Phoenix. He was a dedicated supporter of Alcoholics Anonymous for 36 years and a lifelong swimmer. John’s faith was a centerpiece of his life, and he was a devoted member of San Rafael Parish. John is survived by his partner, Mary Kelley; his children, Kathryn, Jennifer, John, William, Constance, and Ian; and six grandchildren.” Later, Mary sent another version of the obituary, this one written by John himself, offering even more details about his long and extraordinary life. During his quarter-century in the U.S. Marine Corps, he’d served in both Korea and Vietnam, and he spent more than 2 years aboard the USS Midway as commanding officer of the ship’s Marine detachment. As a side note, either John followed the ship, or she followed John, as the Midway, the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, is now a floating museum permanently docked in San Diego, where John made his home for many years. Yet another notable military achievement of John’s was serving as deputy to U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Paul G. Graham at Camp Pendleton, California, during the time that some 60,000 Indochinese refugees were being brought
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into the United States after the fall of Saigon. A funeral mass was held Feb. 3, 2026, at San Rafael Catholic Church in San Diego, and burial followed in Miramar National Cemetery. Over the years, Col. Roche and I had communicated primarily by email. As recently as last year, he was still swimming, often recounting swimming in the VMI pool, which was in the basement of Memorial Hall during his cadetship, and he always expressed gratitude for my service as class agent. I will miss hearing from him, and I am grateful to have had the chance to learn more about his incredible life of service, even after his passing. During this quarter, I was also informed that Shirley Thomas, widow of Blair Thomas, died Feb. 15, 2026, after a brief struggle with leukemia. She and I had spoken on the phone a few times,
Class of 1952: Mary Price and Langhorne McCarthy at the VMI Foundation Scholarship Banquet April 18, 2026.
and the last time we did so, she announced that she was “doing fine, for a 90-year-old Texas gal!” I always enjoyed hearing from her and admired her kind and generous spirit. I know you will join me in sending condolences to the Roche and Thomas families. Many of you may not be aware that the Alumni Association keeps track of class agents and when they served. I recently asked for a list of individuals who’d served as class agent for 1952 and learned that I am the ninth individual to hold this position. They are as follows: John R. Taylor, 1953–55; Robert L. Lambert, 1955–58; John L. “Zeke” Finney, 1958–61; David R. White, 1961–63; Joseph F. Webber, 1963–68; Walter G. Robertson Jr., 1968–83; Albert M. “Nutz” Navas, 1983–2010; James M. Mecredy, 2010– 22; and myself, Mary L. Price, 2022–present. And I’m happy to note that three of those former class agents—John Taylor, Zeke Finney, and Joe Webber—are still with us today. Thanks to each of you for your service! Looking ahead, the Class of 1952’s 75th Reunion is now less than 1 year away—dates are April 12–14, 2027. As I noted in the previous issue, attendance at the 75th Reunion varies widely, and this year, we at the VMI Alumni Agencies were blessed to have Mr. Frans Kasteel ’51 return to post for his 75th. Incredibly spry and sharp, Mr. Kasteel is agile, as well. I serve as a photographer at reunions, and this year, I walked into the Old Barracks courtyard for Old Yells, looked up, and saw Mr. Kasteel already standing atop the sentinel box! He is truly an inspiration to all of us. I hope many of you will be able to have the once-ina-lifetime experience of attending your 75th Reunion. Registration information will be available next spring, but in the meantime, if you have any questions about the reunion or the logistics of visiting Lexington, please reach out to me, and I’ll do my best to assist. I am writing these notes on a cool May morning, but you will be reading them in the heat of August. I hope each of you had a safe and enjoyable summer, and I send my best wishes for the fall. ’52, ’52, ’52!
1953
Ted Mariani
Class of 1952: John F. Roche III in his 1st Class year.
Brother Rats of ’53, This is my first effort at filling in for Bill, which
Class Notes will be a tough act to follow. He and Judy were so attentive to not only the needs of our class but also to numerous cadets that they took under their wings. He represented us so well and was profoundly dedicated to the Institute. He will be sorely missed. I have heard from several BRs and widows but would like to receive a word or two from everyone who entered Jackson Arch on that fateful day 77 years ago. Received word from Will Allison that he is alive and well and still in charge of the Gold Cup Races in Warrenton. Lou Hibbitts reminded us of Bill’s many years of dedicated service to the class but also recalled that he was the nemesis of the rats of 1954. Of course, he later became a rat daddy for the rest of his life. Lou advised that he is the senior VMI grad residing in the Triad region of North Carolina. Two widows, Susan Moncrief and Betty Woodward, sent me emails. Susan and Arthur enjoyed many memorable moments with Bill and Judy, and she feels a great loss. Betty recalled the good times she and Mickey shared with the Noells over many years. As for me, life moves on here at Charlestown. Still trying to deal with the loss of Veronica, my dear wife and companion of 70 years. Maintaining contacts with old friends, former employees, business associates, and professional colleagues has been helpful.
Class of 1953: Attending Bill Noell’s funeral in Lexington, Virginia, Feb. 20, 2026, are (from left) Sandy Morgan (daughter of Frank Spencer), Ed Johnson ’79, Charlie McLaughlin ’26, Stewart Fleming ’75, Bill Noell ’84, Anthony Pais ’79, Chappy Lucas ’79, Steve Chapin ’79, Allen Morgan ’75, Cadet Connor Haines ’27, and Irwin McCumber ’65. In that regard, I have enjoyed the renewal of a friendship that began almost 90 years ago. At that time, Barbara “Sugar” Holland was my neighbor and playmate. We spent many pleasant years growing up in Washington, D.C., and have managed to keep in touch over these many decades. Soon after her graduation from Southern Sem, she married Chris Holland ’52 and has ever since been infused with all things VMI. Unfortunately, Chris passed away several years ago. We keep in contact via email, sharing many fond memories of our early lives, the Institute, and our VMI classmates from both ’53 and ’52. In closing, keep me abreast of events in your lives so I can pass them on to our BRs and the VMI widows who continue to inspire us. In that vein, I am including several recent photos provided by Sandy Spencer Morgan, daughter of Frank Spencer. Ted Mariani
1954
J.M. Perry Archer
Class of 1953: Sandy Spencer Morgan, daughter of Frank Spencer, with Betty Woodward at the Legislative Reception in Richmond, Virginia, in February 2026.
Greetings: We were informed that another of our class, Bert Durell Benton Jr., has died. Bert was another BR whose cadetship ended soon after his matriculation in 1950. He was 93 years old, and the date of
his death was July 1, 2025. He was born in Savannah, Georgia, and was long a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. He was a former Marine, a member of Southside Methodist Church, and president of Jacksonville Film Service. His wife of 61 years preceded him in death. She was the late Mary Florence Anderson. Bert had three sons, Bert Durell Benton III, Patrick Frank Benton, and Jim Anderson Benton, and extended family. A comment included in his obituary stated that he had a fine sense of humor and a gracious spirit and loved playing golf. No other information was available. I do not know what percentage of our rat class dropped out before the end of our rat year; e.g., the famous Mel Brooks was reportedly with us for 30 days in 1950, the fateful year. I believe it was a goodly percentage which left. The most loyal brother rat who left early was Robert MacGregor in my book. Bob quit to be with the love of his life, Mari. His father was a VMI graduate, but Mari was more important, and she and Bob married and stayed married until Bob’s death. At any rate, it is difficult for me to recall most of those who did not stay with us. I wanted to quit. My father simply told me that I would regret it; I stayed, and I think he was correct. I would have. Is the Rat Line easier now or not? I do not know, but from what I see and have read, I would have to say it is decidedly, demonstrably easier now. So be it. Many have found the “Old Corps” narrative an empty one, but we know the true answer. And we had to endure a complete year. Talked with Ollie Hux. He lives in Colorado. His beloved wife and Ring Figure date, Ellie, 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes passed on in April 2026. Ollie is doing OK, and he has children living fairly close by. We talked about the wonder of being in our 90s and some of the attendant effects. As this is being written, we approach what used to be called New Market Day. You will remember New Market Day, May 15, 1951—a blazingly hot day in Lexington. (N.B.: The day is no longer called “New Market Day” at the Institute as a special day solely to commemorate the battle, which it was when we were there. It is now simply a day with a Memorial Parade to memorialize all alumni who have died in the various wars of the United States.) The following is paraphrased from an address delivered long ago by the Hon. John Sergeant Wise ’866, who fought as a cadet in the Battle of New Market. It was May 10, 1864, midnight in Lexington. Drums were beating on post. Those drums were called the long roll. Cadets were rousted from their hays. The Corps was assembled. Orders were read. “Fall in! March to Staunton.” Gen. Lee could not spare his forces from where they were, and Gen. Breckenridge was ordered to assemble troops from Southwestern Virginia at Staunton. The Corps of Cadets was ordered to march with four companies and a section of artillery to Staunton by the Staunton Pike. They got to that then-very small town, and they found all kinds of celebrations and dances going on, with regulars from the Confederate Army dancing with many pretty girls. When the cadets arrived, tired as they were, the young maidens took to them, and some veterans were deserted and confounded by that fact. One young man opined that the veterans forgot that “youth loves youth.” What followed were 4 days of wet weather and muddy roads and a march to New Market for combat with the Union. One funny story from that May in Staunton— veteran Confederate soldiers, upon seeing the cadets coming into town, took their own rifles in their arms, cradling the guns like babies, and began to sing “Rock-a-bye Baby,” making fun of the cadets, thus infuriating the young VMI men, most of whom were still in their teens. The cadets and the regulars went on to Harrisonburg. Rain began in earnest. They passed civilians with loaded wagons and livestock, getting away from the coming fight. Union Gen. Sigel was heading to New Market. Everything was described as “wet and gummy.” When they got closer to New Market, a large fellow showed up and began to enquire about the troops’ names, offering to cut off “lovelocks” for sending home to relatives, and even requesting to know whether they
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wanted rosewood coffins, satin-lined, with name and age on an attached plate. Instead of depressing the cadets, these things served to restore their enthusiasm for the coming battle. The troops arrived at New Market. At 11 a.m. Sunday morning, May 15, Union artillery opened on the Confederates, regular and cadet, the moment they came in sight. The famous battle had begun. A six-cannon battery was located behind the Union lines in a small Lutheran churchyard in New Market, just in the shadow of the church’s spire. Fire from those guns began as soon as the Confederate troops were seen by the Union soldiers. Off to the right was the Confederate Signal Corps, telegraphing the Union’s position and his numbers. The cavalry was riding off to the left to flank the Union troops. Gen. Echols’ troops were coming in from the right flank, moving into line of battle. Union skirmishers ran out to meet them. Puffs of blue smoke arose over the battle. A rattling staccato of pops sounded from hundreds of rifles being fired. The Confederate artillery let fly with all its guns. Smoke rose over them at the first shots. Smoke and swarming troops and thunderous noise and yells sounded from all sides over the scene. Cadet Wise had been ordered to stay and watch the supply wagons, but he fretfully thought of what his father, a veteran himself, would think and say to him if he reported not having joined the fight. So, he left everything with a man who had accompanied the troops and ran to the battle. A shell burst close to him with a thunderous clap. He described a flash of fire and lightning, and down he went as the earth beneath him rocked and the sky above him whirled. His gun pitched forward as he fell, wounded. A sergeant running by looked at him, then ran on. He passed out. He regained consciousness. Rain was falling. The ground around him was muddy and torn where shells had struck. Shells were still screeching in the air and bounding on the earth. A VMI tac officer was lying near him, mortally wounded and gasping for breath. Three other cadets, badly wounded by canister, were lying near him. The shell that burst near him had brought the cadets down. He thought thankfully that he had fought, had not been killed, and that his family would be pleased. The battle went on without him as he struggled to a field hospital with other wounded. He described the approach of a Union cavalryman charging the Confederate lines on a beautiful horse, then whirling about and riding back to his own lines as his companion troops cheered. Wise went on to describe seeing many other cadets running shoeless in the sucking mud in the ploughed field that was part of the battleground,
other cadets falling, mortally wounded, shot through with canister and taking bullets from the Union troops’ murderous fire. At one point when the Corps was being decimated by the Union fire, some of the charging cadets wavered in their run at a Union battery, but one cadet yelled that he would shoot the first one who ran away, and he sprang forth, leading the cadets with him as he charged the battery. They reached the battery, and the cadets took it as the Union soldiers ran, the cadets wounding and killing Union soldiers attending the artillery pieces with rifle, saber, and bayonet. VMI was heard from on that day.
1955
Barney Lawless
A note or two to be followed in the next issue. I have included Bill Cridlin’s note as written because I feel it may reflect the feelings and opinions of all of us. Being in a retirement home is sort of like barracks and room confinement. Just keep the cards, letters, and emails coming. From Bill Cridlin: “Barney, I greatly appreciate the difficult task you undertake in writing the column for ’55. Many thanks! Recently, Ron Bryan and I met for lunch to discuss old times and the direction VMI is taking for its future. We had to postpone our winter meeting to allow Ron to flee the bitter cold that we had in February and relax in Florida. We traded stories of our aches and slowing activities, as well as family updates. Actually, we are lucky to be able to drive and enjoy a lunch together. I cannot believe I was recently able to renew my driver’s license for another 5 years. We were wondering how many brother rats are still available to attend breakfast roll call these days. We hope your request for class comments receives some positive results.” Rosemary Coleman writes: “All’s well in Lamar-land—children thriving, he would be proud. Best wishes to you, and thank you for keeping up the VMI connection. Rosemary Coleman (widow of Lamar W. Coleman).” Tom Williamson writes: “Life is still good with me. I am still able to exercise and play a little golf. The best news is that I have a grandson who has been accepted to VMI and says that is where he wants to go. If he goes, he will be the 15th member of my family to be a Keydet. That
VMI Class of 1956 70th Reunion
Class Notes
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Class Notes number includes my cousin, Pete Haake.” Taps: Frank Boxley, Richard A. Baugh, and Henry G. “Merc” Hager III.
1956
Dickie Justice ’82
Greetings, Class of ’56, It’s been an interesting 3 months since last drafting notes but nothing more interesting than the ’56 class reunion April 14–15. While reunion numbers have dwindled, the spirit and fond memories have not. The Institute was pleased to host Charles “Chuck” Jundt, accompanied by his son, Kirk Jundt; retired Brig. Gen. Robert “Bob” Morris; Arthur “Pete” Jennette, accompanied by his wife, Susan Jennette; Donald “Don” Nyman, accompanied by his sons, Jeff and Ture Nyman, and daughters, Laurie Belville and Sharie Johnson; and Richard “Dick” Justice, accompanied by his son and daughter-in-law, Dickie and Kathie Justice ’82. For most of us, the 2 days started with a flawless Marshall Hall check-in, followed by the obligatory cruise through the bookstore just in case there was a VMI-branded trinket we didn’t already have. Most of our crew opted in on the Crozet Hall fine dining opportunity for Monday lunch. Kathie, dad, and I were graced with the company of two 2nd Class cadets, Louis Marangoni ’27 and Evelyn Anderson ’27. They helped us break the code on Crozet offerings and rules of engagement. Not having “dined” in Crozet since May 1982, this was a different experience. No more grey meat-like substances or vegetable lasagna thrown on your table with the options of take it or leave it. There were multiple lines with fresh food that you recognized, ranging from salads to hot trays to sandwiches and pizza. Wow! It was very good. What an upgrade. After Crozet, we held the memorial service in Memorial Hall led by Col. John Casper ’04, Corps chaplain. This was an opportunity to reflect on those BRs we’ve lost and the fond memories of classmates, roommates, and fellow citizen-soldiers. The Alumni Agencies livestreamed the event for those unable to attend, and I hope some were able to join virtually. Thanks to Col. Casper for the preparation and delivery of the service, the Alumni Association for enabling the livestream, and the cadet bugler playing taps
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and cadet bagpiper playing “Amazing Grace.” We were able to talk with these fine young men at the end of the service, and I apologize for failing to capture their names. After the memorial service, everyone headed to the hotel to check in and refresh prior to attending the all-classes dinner in the Marshall Hall Center for Leadership and Ethics. At the dinner, Lt. Gen. Furness ’87, superintendent, provided an Institute update with good discussion of interactions with the new state legislature and their previous and pending bills impacting VMI. Lt. Gen. Furness fielded thoughtful questions and comments from attendees. Gen. Jumper ’66 took the opportunity to encourage all alumni who might engage with the legislature to focus on the positive things the Institute stands for rather than rail against uninformed negative opinions. We need to stay focused on the many positive attributes that make VMI an impactful educational alternative. After the all-classes dinner, we rallied in the hotel breakfast area to shoot the breeze and revisit barracks stories that would sound more like urban legend than legit happenings to current cadets! I’m not sure the statute of limitations has expired for special reports, so I’ll not recount the tall tales here. On the safe side, Don Nyman, captain of the ’56 basketball team, did entertain us with his recollection of defending Hot Rod Hundley (West Virginia University) his 1st Class year. He couldn’t recall how few points he held Hot Rod to, but we’re sure our team captain was “in his pocket” throughout the game. As the evening wound down, we took inventory, to the best of our knowledge, of other BRs who are alive but were unable to attend. That list includes Mr. Charles E. Aulick, Mr. David A. Blair, Mr. Roger F. Bley, Capt. John
Class of 1956: Don Nyman with Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87, superintendent.
S. Boland, Dr. James N. Brawner, Mr. George H. Brower, Dr. George M. Clark, Col. Ronald L. Fischer, Col. F.J. Flemings, Mr. Thomas H. Frost, Mr. John E. Geiglein, Mr. Paul W. Gronroos, Col. Jerry W. Hale, Mr. Sam H. Hall, Mr. Ronald N. Herring, Dr. S. Pannill Jones, Mr. William Donald Keen, Mr. Marshall E. McCall, Mr. James L. McGeorge, Dr. Stuart B. Monroe, Mr. George E. Penn, Mr. Jack A. Prizzi, Mr. William B. Salsgiver, Mr. Arthur John Sattolo, Mr. Wallis J. Schutt, Mr. Robert G. Shelton, Maj. W.L. Snyder, Mr. James F. Stephens, Mr. Frederick N. Stevenson, Mr. W.M. Stokes, Mr. John Harold Stone, Mr. Peter K. Taylor, Mr. Charles R. Thomas, Dr. Edward G. Thompson, Mr. William M. Westerman, Mr. James G. Wilson, Mr. William M. Wilson, Col. J. Russell Wiltshire, Mr. Price G. Wingate, Mr. John Temple Witt, and Mr. Ivan B. Yerger. We wish you could have joined us but understand the many circumstances that limit participation. You were missed. Tuesday brought a fresh day of nostalgia. Kathie, dad, and I spent the morning driving along Maury River with dad recollecting peaceful penalty tour strolls along the river. He was still keenly familiar with the bridge turnaround points and rules of engagement for working off tours. We followed that with another drive toward Goshen Pass on Maury River Road. We didn’t see any tubers drifting down the river but saw several fly fishermen testing their skills. The scenery along the Maury River is unchanged and pleasant as ever. Before heading back to post, we grabbed a little chow in Lexington, which hasn’t changed much more than the Maury River. The proprietor names change, but the buildings remain essentially the same. It was a pleasant walk around town. Tuesday afternoon was spent relaxing in Moody Hall, listening to a presentation on the history of the building and plans for the new building that starts construction this year. It sounded like this was the last event to be held in Moody Hall, with demolition slated for this summer. There was an auction underway for residual furnishings. We then sat on the terrace and enjoyed the barracks and Parade Ground view while watching the world go by. The usual class photos followed on the steps of Preston Library, then the alumni reunion parade and Old Yells in barracks. Kudos to Chuck Jundt for making the treacherous climb to the top of the sentinel box to lead the Class of ’56 Old Yell. Equally impressive was the participation and enthusiasm of the entire Corps lining each stoop and adding considerable volume on each class’ Old Yell. Our capstone event was the class dinner at the Southern Inn, catered by the Lexington Catering
Class Notes 1.
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Class of 1956 1. Bob Morris, Pete Jennette, Chuck Jundt, Sue Jennette, Dick Justice, and Don Nyman attend the all-classes dinner during the 70th Reunion in April 2026. 7.
2. Kirk Jundt, Chuck Jundt, Don Nyman, Laurie Belville, Ture Nyman, Jeff Nyman, and Sharie Johnson at the all-classes dinner during the 70th Reunion in April 2026. 3. Dickie Justice ’82 and Dick Justice visit Moody Hall during the 70th Reunion. 4. Bob Morris at the parade during the 70th Reunion. 5. Don Nyman with his daughters, Laurie and Sharie. 6. Chuck Jundt leads an Old Yell for the class during the 70th Reunion in April 2026. 7. Pete Jennette and his vanity license plate.
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Class Notes Company. The venue was perfect for casual conversation in a right-sized environment. We ended up with the “parents table” and the “kids table.” It was the first time any of us sat at “that table” in decades! Many thanks to the Lexington Catering Company for delivering a first-class event. I also want to thank family members Kirk, Sue, Jeff, Ture, Sharie, Laurie, and Kathie for joining the reunion, helping with logistics, and adding much color to the event. It was a pleasure being with all. Here’s a shoutout to the Alumni Agencies for an outstanding event and the much-needed help in arranging the Class of ’56 events. Specific shoutouts to Brooke Shehan, Ella Stephenson, and Mary Price for their detailed tracking, support, and gentle reminders. Also, thanks to Jack Prizzy for counseling on the memorial service. Prior to the reunion, I was able to speak with Jack Prizzy. Jack spent his professional career in the private equity business and real estate. He is currently the commander of the local American Legion Post in Sag Harbor on the northeast end of Long Island. He has 1 year remaining in his commander term. It sounds like Jack brought some needed business discipline to the legion post and is likely leaving a legacy of fiscal discipline. Maybe he could help the rest of us and run for U.S. Congress! I’ll sign off with my appreciation and renewed admiration for the Corps of Cadets. Cadets were universally respectful, engaging, polite, and supportive to alumni and their families throughout the 2 days, and it did not come across as scripted or directed. Thanks to the Corps for helping make the reunion a special time.
1957
George Sydnor Jr. Nick Kallelis
The Virginia Military Institute: An Uncommon Purpose! Brother Rats of the Class of ’57, It’s a late spring afternoon here in Fincastle. We have had an unusual spring; March seemed like April, whereas April to mid-May seemed more like mid- to late-March. Mother Nature doesn’t
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seem to be able to make up her mind, alternating between unseasonable weather with it warm when it should be cool, then cool when it should be warm. Rain has been sparse. A long-term drought seems inevitable with a hot, dry summer in the forecast. I invite your attention to take a look at the pictures shown in this edition—a trip to the past and celebrated events long ago—see who you can now remember! Now, let’s get on with the results of our class call-a-thon program, which continues to roll on under the guidance of Nick Kallelis, who gallantly stepped forward to take over its reins with the untimely passing of Don Coombs: Team No. 1: John Kuchnia reporting on B.D. Ayres, Bill Batten, Al Baumgartner, Bill Benson, Bob Blocker, and Bob “Mad Dog” Bolling. John, first reporting on himself: On my way to the Florida panhandle to visit family and friends with my son, Alex Kuchnia ’82, we stopped at the home of Nick Kallelis and wife Carmen outside of Gastonia, North Carolina, near Crowder Mountain. If you make that trip, GPS is not optional; it’s required. With Alex navigating, we still missed two turns. But well worth getting there—a beautiful setting and the good company of Nick and Carmen. After a short visit, half-jettisoning GPS, we returned to I-85 by a different route, continuing through Atlanta and on to Navarre, Florida, where Alex lives. I caught Al Baumgartner going out the door, whereupon he kindly offered me 5 minutes of his time. He and his wife, Carolyn, have been together 68 years and have children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren all living in the Michigan area. He said with all the chemicals they breathed in the classes at VMI, it’s a wonder he, Nick Kallelis, Dick Collier, and Mark Doty are still alive. He shared a few stories he and Tiger Locke had as cadet waiters. He remarked that if Tiger ever parachuted from a plane at the weight he carried, he would float. I recalled how Tiger got his name as a rat from his 1st Class dyke when he was undefeated in his weight class in intramural wrestling when no opponents showed up for his matches. Bill Batten returned my call, sounding chipper and eager to talk. Bill said his pre-med aspirations at graduation were put on hold as his 2-year Army Reserve obligation became 26 years of active-duty service, including an overseas deployment. He retired as a lieutenant colonel and subsequently used his biology training and background in several jobs. He and his wife, Martha, live on a small farm near Greenville, South Carolina. Bob Blocker is still active as a commercial cattle rancher breeding Angus bulls in Markham, Texas, southwest of Houston. While we shared
stories of where we had traveled, we found a common admiration for the city of Sienna, Italy, where he met his first wife. He has three daughters who presently live in Austin, Texas; Florence, Italy; and Brazil. In talking with Bob “Mad Dog” Bolling, I had to ask him where the “handle” came from. It came out of his wrestling career when he wrestled in his weight class at 167 pounds at the “I” under Coach Oscar Gupton. The team was pretty good in those days. We talked briefly about VMI football, coaching changes, and prospects for the future. Bob had a career in the retail end of the oil industry—Getty and American Oil were two companies he mentioned—and in later years, he worked with Petroleum Marketers. In closing, Bob mentioned a story involving Nick Kallelis and a pie. P.S. to Nick: The Dog still remembers! Unfortunately, I was unable to reach B.D. Ayres or Bill Benson but left messages for both with greetings from the class and hoping all was well with them. In the 16th chapter of the Book of Proverbs, we are reminded: “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” I pray that our steps, though sometimes faltering, honor God and that we finish the journey well. Team No. 2: Bill Gay reporting on Dick Collier, Claiborne Coupland, Lew Diuguid, and Mark Doty. In talking with Dick, I learned that he and his specialty homebuilding construction company are nearing the completion of a large upscale housing project. His grandson has been a welcome help with his business. Dick said he regularly speaks with Fritz Scholtz, his old VMI roomie, regularly. When I reached Clay Coupland, I caught him sitting on the deck of his home just after he came in from playing tennis. (God bless him!) Clay said he checks in with his old roomie, John Poffenbarger, every 2–3 weeks, and to “give my greetings to all BRs.” Bill went on to say he was unable to reach Lew Diuguid and Mark Doty even after numerous calls, emails, and telephone messages wherein he extended greetings from the class hoping all was well with them. Team No. 3: Curly Mason reporting on Ben Elmore, Carter Fox, Milton Hargrave, Carl Hellstrom, and Tommy Hunter. Team callers reporting on themselves is a new twist to our call system, which makes sense. Thanks, George and Nick, and so yours truly reports that wife dame Darrel and I had a very active year, with many events involving both VMI and the Virginia Law Foundation, for which she serves as an officer. We attended the Founders Day Institute Society Dinner as we usually do, sitting with Ron McManus and his granddaughter and Dick Collier and his grandson. Later that month, I was honored to be
Class Notes
Class of 1957: Brother rats at their induction into the Beta Chapter of the Kappa Alpha Order in June 1957. the “plus one” for 2nd Class Cadet David Johnson ’27, our neighbor and “adopted” grandson, at the Ring Figure for the Class of ’27. Darrel and I also attended a holiday gathering hosted by the Richmond VMI Club at the Virginia War Memorial. Col. Keith Gibson ’77 was the speaker, and his presentation on early Christmases at the Institute was excellent, including the story of the Christmas tree mounted on top of the sentinel box. Curly wryly noted that mounting it was one thing; lighting it was another matter. Darrel and I took our annual MLB spring training trip to Florida for 6 weeks and enjoyed attending every game at Fenway South in Fort Myers. We still had time to have lunch with BR John Paganelli and his wife, Diane. I talked for a short time to Ben Elmore, who was just home from running errands. He sounded fine and was witty as usual. He said he and wife Damaris were doing well in Pensacola, Florida. I reminded him of the importance of next year and our 70th, but Ben has been fighting neuropathy for several years, which makes his attendance problematical. I was not successful in reaching out to Carter Fox and Carl Hellstrom, although I tried several times to connect with calls and emails, all to no avail. So, messages were left hoping they were both well. Next came a great and lengthy call with Tommy Hunter. Tom retired from Delta Airlines after serving in the Army Air Force in Vietnam, where he was exposed to Agent Orange, resulting in some physical problems. He lived in Minnesota before moving to Louisiana for retirement
with skeet shooting and bass fishing as his pastimes. Skeet has been reduced to 10 clay pigeons from 100 per outing due to impairment in one arm from the Agent Orange exposure. He said fishing is world-class, and he and his yacht (bass boat) are out frequently. Tommy reminisced about his grade school in Richmond with George Sydnor and his connection with Craddock, a section of my city of matriculation, Portsmouth, Virginia. I reminded him of our 70th, and he promised to try to make it. He reminded me that he had roomed with Milton Hargrave, who was also on my call list. Tom then said goodbye so he could get in his boat and go bass fishing! Another great chat, this time with Milton Hargrave. Milt is still living on the family homestead in Dinwiddie County, Virginia. He lives alone on the farm but has family next door. “Not much going on at the farm, but still doing some work with my tractor, at least to cut grass.” A recent highlight was his 90th birthday party and dinner with 19 family members coming from South Carolina, Cleveland, Chicago, and Virginia. I advised him that I had spoken to Tom Hunter, and he also reminded me that they had been roommates. If they are both on my list in the future, I may do a conference call! We reminisced about our time together playing baseball at the “I” under Coach Chuck Noe. Milton would like to attend our 70th but was worried about travel and transportation, as he was not sure if his classic tractor was up to the trip. Team No. 4: John “Pags” Paganelli reporting
on Frank Kline, Howard Lawrence, and Carl LeBourdais. I had a nice talk with Martin Andersen, who called me, as did Nick, to get off my butt and get those calls made. I have so done, but with little success. Frank Kline is incommunicado; his mailbox was full and not able to take messages. A subsequent email failed to elicit a response, so Frank, please either call or email me with any information you wish to share. Howard Lawrence is known for his planning of day excursions around the Appalachians and its numerous mountains and valleys. His latest one, on which he invited George Sydnor to accompany him, began with a stop off at Camp Mont Shenandoah on the Cowpasture River to visit the owner, Ann, daughter of Harry Warner and wife Sis, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the summer camp for girls. Then it was on to Marlinton, West Virginia, for lunch along the upper tributary reaches of the Greenbrier River, and thence to the Highland Scenic Highway that traverses a ridge line along the crest of Black Mountain through the Monongahela National Forest south to the vicinity of Lewisburg. The highway ridge line runs along the crest of the Appalachians at an altitude averaging approximately 4,750 feet—high enough to be considered an area of boreal forest highlands, trees, fauna, and streams not seen until the upper latitude reaches of northern Canada. A great trip, including viewing a mama black bear and her three cubs, none of which paid any attention to them. Carl LeBourdais checked in; he and wife Mary are in an independent living community in Augusta, Georgia. Unfortunately, Mary has suffered two strokes and requires constant care. They have two children in the area, which allows him a break when they visit. He’s thankful for that. Carl sounded well and was upbeat. On a personal note, wife Diane and I just returned from Naples/Fort Myers home in Florida to Rochester and are settling in for the summer and fall months. I played a lot of golf over the fall and winter months and enjoyed having my daughter and her husband buy a place literally next door to us, along with some very close friends, all at Fiddlesticks Country Club in Fort Myers, where we have been for the past 26 years. Diane and I had a very pleasant lunch with Curly Mason and wife dame Darrel in mid-March. They come to Fort Myers every year to watch spring baseball, as Curly loves baseball. We have two stadiums here, one for the Minnesota Twins and one for the Boston Red Sox, and if you would believe it, every game is sold out. I was sad to learn of the passing of Don Coombs, who was a fellow New Yorker; someone whose company I always enjoyed, especially when we were on a golf course 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes together. Diane and I became great-grandparents for the first time in December 2025. I introduced my granddaughter to her now-husband, who was a PGA professional and our first assistant here at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester. He subsequently became the head golf professional at Hackensack Country Club in Hackensack, New Jersey, where they moved and had their first child Dec. 5, 2025, just 2 days short of my 91st birthday. I was honored and personally touched that they named the young man John. (Class agent’s note: How about Pags Jr.?) Diane and I remain in pretty good health for two 91-year-olds. As a matter of fact, I have two older brothers—one 94 and a second 97—who are still pretty well off and kicking ... the oldest one always answers the question, “How are you doing, Charlie?” with, “Almost fine,” which is something I hope to be able to do at 97 years old. And so, Nick and George, I hope you both and your families are all well and enjoy life to the best of your abilities. Best regards and looking forward to our 70th. One more! Team No. 5: Tony DiCesare reporting on Ron McManus, Bill Moore, Phil Miller, Bill Moore, and Paul Muldowney. Ron says it’s “steady as she goes;” health is holding up well except for a couple of arthritic knees. He lost his wife, Patty, 3 years ago, but he still lives and manages their home in Lexington. Their children are nearby and help him on a frequent basis. Additionally, a former student from VMI and a 30-year veteran comes by once a month for a social visit and to provide any assistance that Ron might need. I asked Ron what he learned most from his time at the Institute. His reply: “Do not procrastinate.” That is good advice for all of us. Bill Moore continues to live in an extended care facility in Williamsburg for dementia and memory issues. He remains a true Virginia gentleman and walks his beloved wife, Florine, to her car after visits, opens the car door, seats her, then walks back to the facility, waving to her until she disappears. I have no update on Phil Miller, although I have played telephone tag with his daughter, Betsy, but no contact as of the present. Several calls to Jay Musser with messages left yielded no response—same result as the previous call-a-thon. Then the good news story of Paul Muldowney and wife Harriet “Lovie.” The pictures of them and their huge family in the previous Alumni Review demonstrate what an impact they have, and will continue to have, on the world. The group was immense. One lesson from his days as a cadet: Learn to use structure to your advantage, keep your sense of humor, and press ever onward.
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The same thoughts also personify me personally; doing OK, dealing with various health issues, but nothing that is knocking me out of the box. My lessons from the Institute are like those of Paul’s: Keep a sense of humor and be persistent in all things. Team No. 7: Martin Andersen reporting on George Niedermayer, Randy Pendleton, Paul Phillips, Jim Piggott, John Poffenbarger, and Ed Powell. Martin reported that, personally, he was doing well under the loving care of his beautiful wife, Lynne. They still travel a bit but are limited mostly to cruises out of Tampa to favorite destinations in the Southern and Eastern Caribbean. And, yes, he still goes to the range every Monday and enjoys pistol shooting. Whether or not he hits the target is another matter. George Niedermayer and wife Helen remain well and continue to do volunteer work for their church and the surrounding community in Philadelphia. Randy Pendleton and wife Betsy are doing well and had nothing new to add to the class notes, which he enjoys reading in the Alumni Review. Paul Phillips and wife Ann have returned north to their home in Gainesville, Georgia, after having a winter break in Destin, Florida, where he’s playing golf as usual. P.D. noted he was having a few eye problems, which are being treated. All is well with Jim Piggott and wife Toni. Life in their senior residence facility in Lynchburg “ain’t bad,” and Toni is free from helping tend to their nearby vineyard: “We gave it to the bears,” as the bears always got more grapes than they did, anyway. John “the Poff” Poffenbarger says he is doing well considering the circumstances affiliated with continuing aging; he says he tried but never found a fountain of youth. Poff says he is well taken care of in his assisted living facility there in Charleston, West Virginia, and regularly stays in touch with Clay Coupland and George Sydnor, who both reported they were doing OK under the specter of advancing years. Unfortunately, Martin was unable to connect with Ed Powell; his phone went to automatic answering but had no response after leaving a message wishing him well from all his ’57 brother rats. Our next call-a- thon will feature reports on Dudley “Pruny” Price, Warren “Skip” Richardson, Fritz Scholz, Charlie Smith, John St. George, George Sydnor, Jack Trant, Armand Wagner, Harry Warner, John Whittle, Joe Wickes, Vic Wolf, and Jay Woodward. So, stay tuned to hear the latest on all our brother rats as time moves endlessly along like an ever-rolling stream.
The widows’ corner: We received a nice email from Carol Locke and her daughter-in-law, Kimberly Locke, as follows: “Hello. This is Bill Locke’s (Tiger’s) daughter-in-law. I heard a phone message that John Paganelli had left the other day and wanted to respond. I am so sorry to report that Bill passed away March 19. He went to the hospital Feb. 16 for brain bleeding. The doctors could not do repair surgery, but he was doing better for a while. Then he started to go downhill and had trouble eating or responding and never was able to come back out if it. Michael, his son, and I have been staying at the house off and on helping his wife, Carol, settle things, along with other family help. I felt so bad hearing your message asking how Bill was and hoping all was well. I wish there was a better update for you to report to other alumni and that he was still here to give you that himself. Anyway, thank you for checking in. I know he was very fond of VMI and the friends he made there.” Ann Spivey reports she has now moved to Westminster Canterbury, Rappahannock, in Irvington on the Northern Neck peninsula of Virginia. Nancy Clapp sent a detailed note in February on the scattering of the ashes of husband Wiley at the Riverside Cemetery in Riverside, California. Wiley’s father is also interred there. An interesting note was that his father, Wiley Sr., had been a second lieutenant in the Army in World War I and had been wounded, nursed back to health by a French family, and then returned to duty—tough guy back then. Nancy further noted that, back in February, she had a good send-off for her beloved
Class of 1957: Curly Mason accompanies Cadet David Johnson ’27 at Ring Figure in November 2026.
Class Notes husband, Wiley Clapp. She had a dual ceremony for Wiley and her youngest brother, Kim Robert, who passed away 3 months following the passing of Wiley; they were two good Marines reporting to St. Peter. This occurred at sunset Jan. 28, 2026, on the beach of Camp Delmar, Camp Pendleton, California. There were family and close friends in attendance. Grandsons Jim and John Marx did the honors, with Jim in his dress blues conducting the flag presentation. It was just beautiful; God bless their souls. Semper Fi, Marines. Since the last edition of these class notes, we have lost Don Coombs, Bill “Tiger” Locke, and learned of the passing of John Kilday back in May 2025. Before signing off on this edition of our ’57 class notes, we continue our honored tradition of remembering those brother rats who have “crossed over the river to rest under the shade of the trees.” Our 21st list of those gone but not forgotten Class of ’57: Charlie Jeckell, Jan. 13, 2020: Russ Davis, Feb. 7, 2020; John Hughes, Feb. 12, 2020; Ray Mackay, Feb. 22, 2020; and Lynn Avis, May 20, 2020. Rest in peace, brother rats who have passed, until at last, we are all reunited; close ranks, brother rats still standing, as we continue our march forward on life’s path into the vast unknown and whatever the future may bring. And remember: The 70th Reunion of the great Class of ’57 will be held April 12–13, 2027. Let’s get ready; take your vitamins, cancel all falls (both anticipated and unanticipated), practice walking without a cane or walker, and give the wheelchair a rest. So, it says in part in our “Doxology,” “The spirit blends with those we cheer, our brother rats we hold so dear. So now Keydets with one voice cry, God bless our class and VMI.” Your Class Agents, George and Nick
1958
Lee McCown
Greetings on a sunny spring day in Richmond, where the temperature is finally around 70 degrees, having been way too cold for way too much of this season. A hangover, I guess, from one of our worst winters ever. My last plea for contributions to these notes was answered by a lot more of you than usual. Thanks so much, and keep it up! You’ll notice there’s not a
single photo of anyone in our family. Special thanks to Rich Neuburger, who sent me the most material, including a photo of him with Lenny Rubin as rats, saying, “Two Brooklyn boys holding their rifles. I speak to Lenny quite often ... a real good guy!” Yes, he is a good guy, and he just told me he’s now cancer-free! Rich shared something new about the years he coached a softball team made up of inmates at the San Quentin State Prison. “Each time a visiting team arrived, I spoke these words, as authorized by the prison officials: ‘In the unlikely event you’re taken hostage, the state of California will not bargain for your release.’ “I said this to many visiting teams for 9 years, and the looks on many of those faces were priceless.” Rich, you sure had a unique volunteer experience. I’m so glad I never heard those words in my years in the Golden State. Laura and I go to a lot of lectures, as our Virginia state capital is culturally and educationally rich. We recently attended one sponsored by the George C. Marshall Foundation, which has terrific lectures—live and online—about topics related to Marshall ’901 or World War II. Once a year, they have a lecturer here at the Country Club of Virginia. We highly recommend becoming a foundation member. They have an excellent magazine, too. See marshallfoundation.org. As most of you probably know, it’s based in Lexington, on the VMI post. It was commissioned by President Truman in order to preserve the papers of Marshall. The headquarters/museum opened in 1964. Presidents Eisenhower and Johnson attended the opening ceremony. The first in-person, Marshall Foundation lecture we’ve heard this year was by Christopher C. Gorham, the author of a new book called “Matisse at War: Art and Resistance in Nazi-Occupied France.” It was fascinating, and of course, Laura bought the book afterward. In short, the renowned artist, Henri Matisse, refused to leave France when the Nazis took over. While at that lecture, we ran into Bob Priddy, an old friend who invited us to another Marshall lecture a few days later where he lives, at the beautiful Westminster Canterbury Richmond retirement community. Linda and Brooke Doggett also live there and attended the lecture. This one was about the great general himself and was given by Paul Levengood, Ph.D., the president of the Marshall Foundation. Levengood is an excellent speaker, and his talk compared the experiences of Marshall as a young officer in World War I with how those experiences made him so successful in World War II.
Levengood also touched on Marshall’s time as a cadet at VMI, where he was not a great student but did become first captain of the Corps of Cadets. At the time he graduated in 1901, it was nearly impossible for any man not a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy to get an Army commission. Marshall was turned down over and over but remained determined to make his longtime dream of being an Army officer come true. In what is a hard-to-believe but true narrative, his determination took him to Washington, D.C., where he managed to sneak into the White House office of President William McKinley and lobby him personally. He succeeded, and out of 10,000 applicants, nearly all from West Point, he was among the very few chosen. Of our class, Bill Harshaw is the only BR I’m aware of who has actually met Marshall, in the superintendent’s house at VMI with his grandfather, who was also in the Class of 1901. I think all of you received the same recent invitation from the Institute that Laura and I did for a visit to Moody Hall for the last time. The 1969 building will be torn down and replaced with what looks in the architectural drawings like a very attractive but much bigger building. We weren’t expecting to find the space set up with objects for a future online auction. A lot of people were walking through and checking things out. Most items were in good condition. Laura was taken with how many rooms had beautiful wood paneling or trim. The staff, always very knowledgeable and hospitable, told us efforts will be made to save some of that wood for the new building. Visitors were offered souvenirs that included a coaster—described as “witness wood”—showing the doomed building. The witness wood is from a dead tree taken down from the front of Smith Hall, the administrative building next to Moody Hall. I recently got a touching note from Janice Sykes, wife of our late BR Gates Sykes, who died in 2022. It said, “Several years ago, Gates and I discussed things we would like done when we passed away. ... Recently I have started using his computer, and I found a file listing his desires. ... One wish was for a section to be reserved for his brother rats if any came to his funeral. I know some were there. I remember Charlie Hayes speaking at his service, and I think I saw some of you at the gravesite. I want to thank his brother rats for coming and apologize for not following his wishes to have a section reserved for them. “Gates was very proud of VMI and his brother rats, and I’m so sorry I missed that very important wish. Hopefully, he and his brother rats will forgive. He kept hoping to be a great-grandfather, 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes and Dec. 15, 2025, his granddaughter, Abby, and her husband, Sam, fulfilled that wish for him. They had a beautiful little girl they named Charolette Ruth. I’m sure Gates is proudly looking down and smiling from ear to ear now. Again, please pass my apology to the brother rats, and my thanks for coming.” How thoughtful of you, Janice. Here’s wishing you well. It was great to get a photo of Dave Pitkethly and wife Mara on his 90th birthday, along with his note: “Here is a memory of my 90th birthday party with a nice gathering of family and friends. Otherwise, we have a quiet, peaceful life here in Bellevue, Washington. Best regards to you and Laura.” Terrific photo, Dave. So glad you’ve recovered from your shoulder fracture. What caused it was certainly interesting to me, having fallen out of bed myself during a nightmare about a rabid dog attacking me. Is Roy Palmer teasing you nonstop, as he does me, about putting a seat belt in your bed? Glad you didn’t have to have surgery, as I did, and I know you have a good nurse, too. Sometimes it’s great to hear about a BR from one of his best friends since their time at the Institute, and Stirling Williamson can tell great stories about his buddy, Roy Palmer. “Ask Roy about the time when he was flying a U-2 over God knows where when the heater went out on his space suit,” reports Stir. “His breath froze on the inside of his face mask and blinded him at 60,000 feet or more. He fumbled around, located a pencil, stuck the eraser end through his feeder opening, and erased the frost off the inside of his face mask so he could see enough to get to a lower and warmer altitude.” Stir, no surprise to hear a story of Roy’s smarts. I love telling people that the VMI Class of ’58 has a guy who’s still flying. Sometimes I hear from him that he’s giving up his license, then I hear that he’s back at it again. We keep hoping Roy will move back to the East Coast so we can see more of him. Roy provided a photo of himself from those U-2 days, along with one of Gary Powers (not shown), the pilot who in 1960 famously had his U-2—a single-seat, single-engine, high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft—shot down by the Russians. He was imprisoned until exchanged for a Russian spy in 1962. The U.S. initially denied that Powers was on a spying mission but eventually admitted that he was. There’s a great 2015 movie, “Bridge of Spies,” starring Tom Hanks as the unassuming lawyer who arranged that dramatic bridge spy exchange. Last year, we heard Gary Powers Jr. talk about his father at the Library of Virginia. (See garypowers.com.) He is founder and chairman emeritus of the Cold War Museum, a nonprofit located
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Class of 1958: Dave and Mara Pitkethly celebrate Dave’s 90th birthday.
Class of 1958: Rich Neuburger and Lenny Rubin during their cadet years.
Class of 1958: This riderless horse with boots turned backward in the stirrups was part of Ernie Edgar’s burial ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.
at Vint Hill, Virginia. He founded the museum in 1996 to honor Cold War veterans, preserve Cold War history, and educate future generations about that time. He was just a kid when his father was shot down, and says he quizzed his dad constantly about that spying experience. Some brief reports: Brooke Doggett had a 2-day hospitalization recently following losing consciousness at the breakfast table. I’ve seen him since, and he seems to have made a full recovery. Stuart Whitehurst reports that he and his wife, Eleana, are doing OK. I’ve tried to reach Jack Cunningham on the phone with no success, but Stuart says Jack is doing OK. Brooke and I are going to visit him soon. Jim Cowan responded to my pleas for material with a delightful photo of him and his wife Margaret during one of their happy times in their South Dakota home. Jim’s doing the right thing by holding on to the railing. Charlie Hayes sent me this very interesting memory. “I was watching a video that showed cows grazing and remembered that in the spring, the locally obtained milk in the mess hall tasted like wild onions.” What a memory, Charlie. Thanks for the reminder. I’ll close with words about BRs who have “gone to the light.” Laura and I rode with Charlie to Arlington National Cemetery in April where Ernie Edgar was laid to rest. Ernie died in August 2025, but there always seems to be a wait for space there, as there also was for the burials of Duke Johnston, Bob Spurrier, and Jan Woodman. Among those attending were Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, former VMI superintendent, and Carl Strock ’70, former chief of the Corps of Engineers. All three of the Edgar children—Charles Ernest IV ’87, Elizabeth Bole, and Will—spoke at either the service or the reception and sang the praises of Ernie as a father and grandfather. We spoke with Ernie’s wife, Elizabeth, who so appreciated our being there and expressed her gratitude for the fact that Ernie did not have a lengthy illness. The ceremonial aspects of a service for someone of Ernie’s rank are considerable and include the riderless horse with boots turned backwards in its stirrups. Laura remembers first seeing that done for President Kennedy and has always appreciated its symbolism. Rest in peace, Ernie. We couldn’t make it to Jerry Paull’s Arlington National Cemetery burial, but I talked with his wife, Karen, who described what you would expect of a U.S. Marine Corps salutation: Everything done to perfection, including a band and two big cohorts of Marines marching. I asked if there was a horse with the boots turned backward,
Class Notes and she said no, as the rank required for that is full colonel, and Jerry retired as a lieutenant colonel. I think Jerry falls into a special category, having been an enlisted man before graduating from VMI and then an officer for nearly 20 years, earning a Bronze Star Medal and two Purple Hearts. While in Vietnam, Jerry led the first combat helicopter
Class of 1958: Jim and Margaret Cowan in South Dakota.
Class of 1958: Roy Palmer in his U-2 flight gear.
parachute jump in Marine Corps history. Karen says her daughter, Elizabeth, is now living with her. Rest in peace, Jerry. I got word from VMI of the death of BR Jack Sullivan April 19 in Clinton, Mississippi. While Jack didn’t stay in close touch with our class, at the time of our 65th Reunion, I remember that he was the first BR to register. Unfortunately, he became too sick to come. Jack matriculated from Richmond and majored in civil engineering. He worked 36 years for the Federal Highway Administration, including the time when the interstate highways were being constructed. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Liza, and is survived by two sons and a grandson. Mike Smeltzer, class treasurer, will be making contributions to VMI in memory of these BRs. I’m going to close with a description of the funeral of someone in another VMI class. I went to the funeral of Rusty Loth ’59, who was a native of Waynesboro, Virginia, and lived most of his life in Richmond, moving close to family to Memphis after his wife’s death. The Loth family has an enormous monument at their Hollywood Cemetery gravesite, which Laura and I have walked by and admired many times. It was constructed for Rusty’s grandfather, an Austrian immigrant, and has room for descendants. Rusty was a delightful guy, and the family did something I’ve never seen done before: They had a gift for all who attended. His was a beautifully designed card with a great photo of Rusty on it. Underneath, a small pin of a bear was attached; Bear was Rusty’s nickname. Other VMI alumni at the service were Eddie Barnes ’59, Bobby Ross ’59, Bill Wray ’59, and Donnie Ross ’74. From now on, whenever I take a solitary stroll over there, I’m adding a stop at Rusty’s grave to those of BRs Frank Norvell and Sam Witt. May they all rest in peace and be long remembered. I always find funeral and memorial services at Hollywood inspiring. Laura and I go to cemeteries in every country we visit, and it is one of the most beautiful we’ve ever seen. BR John Peters wrote and did the photography for a terrific book about it: “Richmond’s Hollywood Cemetery,” published in 2010 by the Valentine Richmond History Center. I was proud to carry some of his camera equipment on one cemetery outing for the book but glad to get home, as that was a cold and windy day with snow blowing around. I asked John for an accounting of his health and his writing and photography career and got this report: “I am getting along fine. My walking is still improving some, and I’m still doing some physical therapy. As for the books, I have written and photographed four, written two, and photographed
two. Of the books I wrote, Susie was the co-author on two. A total of eight. Most are large-format books. The topics have included cemeteries; Monument Avenue; Hayes, a historic plantation in North Carolina; Virginia courthouses; and a court history. “I am most proud of the notable people who wrote three of the forewords to my books, including the late Supreme Court Justice Lewis F. Powell, who wrote the foreword to ‘Virginia’s Historic Courthouses,’ published by the University of Virginia Press in 1995. This book has received significant praise and continues to sell. “Judge J. Harvie Wilkinson III of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit wrote the foreword to my history of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and described the courthouse book as ‘widely recognized as one of the Commonwealth’s true classics.’ The foreword to the book on Hollywood Cemetery was written by acclaimed historian and author Edward Ayers, Ph.D., who, at the time, was president of the University of Richmond.” You have a fantastic legacy, John. Keeping on keeping on! Best to all and please keep your news coming my way. Lee
1959
Shep Shepard
I am sad to report we lost two more brother rats this quarter: Russell Chew and Bill Kessler. No next of kin for Russ, and no address for Bill. I have tried to reach out for an address for Mary, Bill’s widow, but have received no response. Russ, of Williamsport, Maryland, passed away April 3, 2026. He lived a life defined by faith, service, and a love of learning. After graduating from VMI, Russ went on to teach at Saint James School, where he left a lasting impression on his students. Russ also had a deep passion for Civil War history and was known as an avid enthusiast. Russ will be remembered for his spirited nature, steadfast faith, and lifelong curiosity, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and warmth. Bill lived a long, thoughtful, and consequential life defined by intellectual discipline, professional excellence, service to his country, and abiding love for his family. After graduating from VMI, Bill was invited to remain an additional 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes year to teach in the electrical engineering department. Bill served 9 years in the United States Air Force, where he continued his education at the Air Force Institute of Technology. Having taught at the AFIT, I can attest to the rigorous curriculum. It is a difficult path, and only the best succeed. Following the military, Bill began a distinguished civilian career with Hughes Aircraft Company and later Raytheon. His legacy lives on through the people he loved, the work he advanced, and the example he set for a life lived with purpose, dignity, and grace. Keep the families of Russ and Bill in your thoughts and prayers. Mel and Jean Anderson recently enjoyed a Caribbean cruise with ports of call at San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Antigua, Dominica, St. Kitts, St. Croix, and Tortola (Brit Virgins) before returning to Tampa. It was a great trip, and the weather could not have been better. They were aboard an Oceania’s Insignia ship, which serves five-star meals. While cruising, Mel and Jean met a VMI grad from the Class of 1966. Jim Whitehurst ’66 and his wife, Susan, were great traveling companions. Eddie and Carolyn Barnes, along with Dick Trandel, Harry MacGregor, and Otis Poole ’60 (close friend of Lloyd’s), attended Lloyd Thacker’s Memorial Garden ceremony at VMI. Bette Thacker did a great job putting everything together. A service was held in Memorial Hall, followed by the spreading of his ashes in Memorial Garden. It was a beautiful ceremony followed by a light lunch in the museum. Lloyd donated his body to medical research, and it took a year-and-a-half to get his ashes returned. Bette says she hopes the med students did research on his brain to figure out what made him tick; she certainly never could. Bette was very happy with the ceremony and the number of his friends and brother rats. Too many of Lloyd’s friends have gone before him or were not able to make the long trip. I received a nice note from Gail Christie, Jack Christie’s widow. She said, “I’m so sorry that I have not stayed in touch; I hope this email finds you doing well and settling into your new home. The Christie family is doing well and has increased in size. Two of the grandchildren got married in the last couple of years and added two great-grandchildren to the roster. So far, things have stayed quiet and normal considering the state of the world. One of our grandsons is a Marine recruiter, of which I am so very thankful, as his MOS is infantry. I’m so saddened to see all the deaths in the VMI family. I know it is part of life but still do not like it. Walt Ferony was godfather to Jack’s oldest daughter, Lori, so I will forward the information about Waldo to her. Please take good care
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Class of 1959: Ralph Lawson, Eddie Barnes, and Bobby Ross at Lloyd Thacker’s memorial ceremony.
Class of 1959: Mel and Jean Anderson with Jim and Susan Whitehurst ’66 on a cruise.
Class of 1959: Harry Ray at a JROTC awards ceremony.
of yourself, and I will try to be better about staying in touch. Yours in the Spirit, Gail.” I got another nice note from Harry and Ann Ray: “Hello and hope you are doing Ranger well! I had a great 89th birthday and was honored by the Charlotte Mecklenburg JROTC cadets and Carolinas Freedom Foundation. I was the JROTC director from 1985–2014 and established several longstanding programs. One was a JROTC Awards Ceremony conducted in Bojangles Coliseum honoring cadets from all 20 of my schools (4,400 cadets) and free parking for parents. Community and state/federal officials would attend and present awards and scholarships. Carolinas Freedom Foundation sponsored the event. I became a member of the foundation in 2004 and served several years as chairman and now on the Advisory Board. They honored me on my 89th birthday and presented awards for leadership, scholastics, and citizenship. They also gave me a special farewell salute line. ... By the way, I shot a 45 on the front nine yesterday in our Tuesday/Thursday old geezer PAR/BAR nine-hole round, followed by lots of pizza and beer.” I received the following note from Dick Irons: “Shep, good to hear from you again. I want to begin by thanking you for all your work over the years in keeping all ’59ers abreast of all our brother rats. I know all of us (alive or passed) deeply appreciate(d) the time and effort you have devoted. I hope you are doing well and do hope to see you the next time I am in your area. I seldom get up that way, even though my daughter still lives in Palm Bay. I am doing fairly well for a ’59er. Still walking and driving. About to give up golf but still one of my loves; my dog being first. Thanks again for all of us, and may God bless you always.” Ralph Lawson and Bobby Ross, along with Bobby’s brother, Donnie Ross ’74, were able to attend Rusty Loth’s burial at Hollywood Cemetery. Eddie and Carolyn Barnes drove down from Roanoke. They all got to spend time with Laura, Rusty’s daughter, and she was very pleased with the turnout of VMI guys in attendance. It was a very nice service and a beautiful setting overlooking the James River. Bobby and Alice are doing well—health is much better than reported last quarter. They hope things will continue to improve, and they will be able to make it down to Lexington for a game this year. They tune in to YouTube and find some interesting updates on the happenings at VMI. They even have clips of football games during our time there. Fun to watch. Don Messner saw my note in class notes and just wanted to tell me that nothing exciting was happening in Port Charlotte, Florida, or Pennsylvania that would cause brother rats to muse,
Class Notes “Wow, the Messners are certainly enjoying their twilight years.” Don was recently released from rehab after 6 weeks in the hospital and rehab from an infected back. Six weeks of three antibiotic infusions per day. He is feeling much better now but nowhere near what he was before all this hit. Their daughter, Diana, came down from Pittsburgh to help them get through it together. She has been a lifesaver since Don is still in the hobble-around phase. Looking forward to better times. Larry Wood wrote to say he and Nancy were doing well and thank me for the updates on brother rats. Says he thinks of me and all brother rats who served every time he raises the flag every morning and thanks God for our service to our country and our Class of 1959. As we approach the 90-year mark, we have so much to be thankful for. God bless all our brother rats. The following was sent to me by Bob Haines. I am not sure he wanted me to publish it, but after you read it, I think you will understand why I did. This passion for flying is what makes our United States Air Force the best in the world. See if you agree. Bob wrote: “I was taken aback at how this young major and I think alike, he in his F-16 and me in my F-5 and A1E SkyRaider—our enormous joy for flying; our mutual deep respect for the crew chief and his staff of young airmen keep our machines in flawless condition; and how humble we mutually feel about the incredible positive comments family, friends, and spectators made about their appreciation for our performance. We were daily shaped by the thousands of valued life lessons we learned from the pilots before us, who unselfishly, willingly, and sometimes demanded we learn harshly from them. An occasional junior pilot who didn’t measure up got hit where it hurts the most when told to take the plane back to the parking ramp because he wasn’t ready to fly in Keith Lukens’ flight today. Keith Lukens is the one leader who I feel really made the biggest impression on me. When we were flying the A1E SkyRaider in Vietnam, he demanded/insisted we always perform at our very best, that we be singularly accountable for all our actions, that the formation must fly cohesively with perfection of eagles and be incredibly sincere and instructive (not destructive) when divulging issues/mistakes to fellow pilots while being loyal and supportive to each and every pilot in the flight, and that we must discuss at debriefing each and every mistake anyone in the flight made so we learned by our mistakes and by each other’s mistakes which demand telling the truth and enormous integrity. I hope when you watch the flying that you will grasp the beauty in all aspects of flying and pay immense attention when flying close to and skimming the clouds and
the feeling you could reach out and touch the hand of God. I, like this dude reflects, feel so blessed, lucky, and humble to most always be in the presence of aggressive, can-do, there-is-a-way, positively thinking pilots and so many others in our aviation community. As he reflects, it continuously shaped our lives, not always received well nor understood well, but a life that others may appreciate and maybe learn by, as well! Bottom line regarding this video is, while on the job, this video reflects what I did almost every day of my life in the Air Force and flying in Kosovo/Iraq for 8 years rotationally—enjoy the video and its deep meaning, at least to me. I thank Cody Haines for sending this video to me! Maybe he knows me too well, aaaah Cody? Thank you, Cody! By the way, John Haines keeps telling me he is working on buying me my own two-seat F-5 so I can continue flying around Sarasota, impressing the crowds with the after-burner climb and the many other fabulous
Class of 1959: The Artemis II rocket shortly after liftoff from Cape Canaveral, Florida, April 1, 2026.
performance features of the F-5.” Skip White wrote he is taking delivery of his new Tesla in the next 10 days. In the three test drives he took, he never touched a pedal, never touched the steering wheel. Enter the address and relax. He thinks he is not dead yet, but oh, how we miss our spouses. Amen, brother. Sallie and Nowell Loop report the birth of a great-granddaughter in March, making a total of three great-grandchildren for them. All are doing great, and they recently learned they will be great-grandparents again in late August. Much excitement and enjoying the two older great-grandsons, now 1-and-a-half and 2-and-a-half, as much as they can. Just as I was about to close out on these class notes, I received an unexpected but pleasant call from Jimmy Seeley ’60, a super guy and friend for many years. Jimmy reports that he and Carol are doing great. I will be passing through Jacksonville in a few months, and we plan to get together for lunch—one that I am truly looking forward to. I am slowly adjusting to retirement home living. Can’t believe I’ve been here for over a year. It does have its benefits, but I do miss my home and working around the house. Have met a lot of nice people—some I have known for over 30 years. My girls look after me and keep me on the straight and narrow. Thank goodness for family. My oldest son, Phil Shepard ’83, came down from Virginia Beach to spend a few days with me and Christine. Unfortunately, Colleen was over in Europe on a riverboat tour. We continue to follow Artemis II closely because Christine works on the program at Kennedy Space Center. Looking forward to III and IV. Christine’s son, Avery, came from Denver to visit for a while, but if it were not for doctor appointments and picking up medication, I wouldn’t have anything to do. Keep those cards and letters coming in. Yours in the Spirit, Shep
1960
James A. Smith III
Class of 1959: Shep Shepard and his family at the launch of the Artemis II mission at Cape Canaveral, Florida, April 1, 2026.
(Editor’s Note: Before going to press, we learned the sad news of Jimbo Smith’s passing July 6, 2026. His Taps entry will appear in the 2026-Issue 4 Alumni Review.) Greetings from sunny Fort Myers Beach, Florida. Ruth and I have been here since Jan. 17 and 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes will go back to Lexington March 1. We dodged a bullet with regard to the weather back home. The snow will be melted when we return to 12 Evergreen Tree Drive. On Jan. 24, George Ax celebrated his next birthday. George and I had a nice phone conversation. He is as well as can be expected for a senior citizen. I spoke with Buddy Frith Jan. 27 to wish him a happy birthday. Buddy is well. Al “AFE” Smith had a birthday Feb. 2, but we have no contact information. We wish him well. On Feb. 12, I spoke with both Ed Martin and Jon Parnell wishing healthy, happy birthdays. They both were as well as their age allows. Jon lives in Texas but was aware of the goings-on at the Institute. On Feb. 12, Mike Pitt passed away. While Mike matriculated with our class and is in our class photos, he always associated with the Class of ’61 with whom he graduated. Mike was special to me, as I went to his home in Portsmouth on our first Corps trip. His obituary is as follows: “Michael Herbert Pitt died Feb. 12, 2026, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Born Aug. 7, 1938, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, he was the son of Sally Grace and Herbert Pitt. In 1942, his family moved to Portsmouth, Virginia, where he grew up. He was tapped for the Order of the Arrow in the Boy Scouts and later played football and ran track at Churchland High School, where he was voted cutest in the senior class. After graduating in 1956, he attended Virginia Military Institute, an experience he cherished deeply. He was a proud member of the wrestling team. The friendships he formed at VMI remained meaningful to him for the rest of his life. After graduating from VMI, he attended the Washington and Lee School of Law. He was commissioned into the United States Army and served his country at Fort Hood and along the Korean Demilitarized Zone. Upon completing his military service, he returned to Portsmouth and practiced law for many years throughout the Tidewater area, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Jimmy Pitt; and his nephew, Donny Pitt. He is survived by his wife, Betty Hudgins; his daughter, Holly Pitt Young; his son, Scott Pitt; his sisterin-law, Stephanie Pitt; his niece, Heather Bowen (Wayne); his step-son, Bonner Hamaker (Okae); his step-daughter, Helen Younce (Rob); and many loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mike will be remembered for his kindness, his ready smile, and his wonderful sense of humor, which brightened the lives of all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or St.
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Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The family will be gathering privately at a later date.” Also Feb. 15, Jerry Hermann passed away. His obituary is as follows: “Jerry was born July 3, 1938, in Louisville, Kentucky, to Arch and Vera Herrmann. At age 8 months, the family relocated to Kansas City, Missouri. At age 8, the family, then including brothers Richard and Thomas, relocated to the Buffalo, New York, area, where Jerry resided until his graduation from Lancaster High School, class of 1956. He then departed to pursue his college education at Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia. He was granted a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering in June 1960 and immediately entered service in the U.S. Army as a second lieutenant assigned to duty with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, as an air delivery officer. “He was married in 1960 to his high school sweetheart, Marlene Delores North (deceased in August 1974). They were then assigned to duty in Germany, where they remained for 4 years. Jerry then took command of the Stock Control Detachment in the Dominican Republic, subsequently redeployed to the U.S., and deactivated. Jerry was then assigned to a 13-month unaccompanied tour of duty in South Korea. While there, he and Marlene were blessed with a son, Michael Edward Herrmann, in 1967. Jerry was next assigned to a 1-year unaccompanied tour of duty in Vietnam. “Upon return, Jerry was sent to the Graduate School of Business at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he earned an MBA degree 2 years later. While there, he met and married Mary Elise (Davis) McFatter, along with step-daughter Leslie and step-son Lynn. His next and final Army assignment was to the USA Concepts Analysis Agency in Bethesda, Maryland. “Following discharge as a major from the U.S. Army after 20 years and 17 days of total service, the family moved to Madison, Connecticut, when Jerry went to work as a subcontract manager for United Technologies in Norwalk, Connecticut. Ten years later, the family moved to Long Island, New York, when Jerry accepted the position of director of materials for Grumman Aerospace, later merged to become Northrop Grumman. While there, Jerry was united with a daughter, Marie Balland. Ten years later, Jerry accepted a position with NYNEX in New York City. NYNEX later merged into Bell Atlantic and finally merged with GTE to become Verizon. With that merger, Jerry moved his family and job to the Tampa, Florida, area, where he retired at age 69 with no unemployment since graduation from VMI in 1960. “Jerry lost his Mary Elise to cancer in October
2009. He was preceded in death by his father and mother (deceased in 2009 on her birthday at age 104); wives, Marlene and Mary Elise; and brother, Thomas.” I exchanged emails with Carl Benner in Arizona Feb. 18, Carl’s next birthday. He reported some infirmities, but apparently, they are manageable. On Feb. 21, Guy Smith had his next birthday. He slipped on the ice at home, sustaining multiple injuries requiring major surgery. When I spoke with Guy, he was home and recovering on schedule. He sounded good. On Feb. 28, Ruth and I returned from Florida. All the snow had melted. Good timing! On March 7, Jimmy Seeley celebrated his next birthday. He had just returned from a dinner with Carol and was in good spirits. He continues to work on an airplane but doesn’t fly anymore. He is well. On March 25, Bo Callaham celebrated his next birthday. He is well. I had a surprise call from Mike Moss just to catch up. Mike now lives back in Minnesota. We talked about his marathon accomplishments and “plans” to compete in a wheelchair race. Remember that Mike, along with Phil Shiner, was a Jackson-Hope Medal recipient. On April 12, Wayne Leblang celebrated his next birthday. I spoke with Wayne, who is having medical issues. On April 18, Peanuts Elliott had his next birthday. He and Jan are thawing out up there in the north country. On April 26, George Salaita and Otis Pool had their next birthdays. Both are well. Otis says he will move to Florida permanently. On April 29, Vaughn Foxwell celebrated his next birthday by going to the gym. I caught up with him as he was leaving the gym. Vaughn and Helen have moved permanently to Fernandina Beach, Florida. On May 11, Bobby Graves celebrated his next birthday. I did not get him on my phone call but wished him well by email. I’m sure he’s out saving souls. Bob does great work. He did call me the next day. He remains busy. On May 12, Bolling Williamson had his next uneventful birthday. Bolling lives in Whitestone, Virginia, in the Northern Neck full-time between a Westminster Canterbury facility and a house on the bay. He is getting by, as we all are. On May 13, Joe Stewart celebrated his next birthday. Joe remains very active with his motorcycle and hunting trips. We had a nice talk. Mike Moss had his next birthday May 14. I could not speak with Mike but wished him well with an email. As I write these notes, it is New Market Day.
Class Notes VMI celebrates with an elaborate Memorial Parade where all 591 names of graduates killed in all conflicts from the Spanish-American War to Afghanistan are read, followed by a parade. The parade was followed by a commissioning ceremony. The following day is a change of command parade. Commencement was held Sunday, May 17. We are interested in what Gov. Spanberger will have to say. This brings this edition of our class notes to a close. Please remember our Bayliss and Tumlinson awards with your donations. Please stay in touch and send pictures. In the Spirit, Jimbo Smith
1961
Sal Vitale Jr.
What a great reunion our 65th was! There were 43 brother rats, along with five widows; three VMI sons of brother rats; eight grown children; and the remainder our spouses, significant others, and friends, for a total of 93 in attendance. There is so much to report on. My goal for those who attended is a look back, and for those who could not, I hope I helped you feel you were with us. I arrived Sunday, along with 15 brother rats, spouses, children, and guests. We held an evening social, and then I and most others retired to rest for Monday’s busy schedule of events at VMI. Sue and I attended the Keith Gibson ’77 lecture. In the evening, we attended the combined classes’ dinner sponsored by the Alumni Agencies. As usual, our class occupied a good portion of Marshall Hall (like the old Institute Society Dinner days). (Smile.) Tuesday, the rest of the class arrived, and our first class activity was lunch in Marshall Hall. Clayton Smith said grace, and Keith Gibson was our guest speaker. Then off to Memorial Hall for our memorial service. Bill Maurer read the names of the brother rats who passed since our 50th Reunion. John Tharrington read the names of our brother rats awarded citations for bravery. A preamble to the reading of names written by John Tharrington follows: “Our VMI Class of 1961 can be justly proud of our brother rats who have served our nation with valor, honor, and distinction in a time of war. Twenty-nine of our brother rats have been honored by being named to the VMI Hall of Valor. Of those 29, 19 have gone to their heavenly reward and can no longer speak for themselves. It
is, therefore, incumbent on us, the living, to speak on their behalf that their noble deeds be not forgotten. These 29 men and many more of our brother rats answered our nation’s call, knowing full well that it could be their final roll call. For four of our brother rats, Captains Pete Kleinberg, Denis Nicholas, Mickey Runyon, and David Spearman, it was their final roll call.” Allison Drescher read a poem, “Reflected Glory,” written by Wyatt Durrette at our 55th Reunion. We concluded with a lecture on Jonathan Daniels presented by Bill Braithwaite. We adjourned and moved to the Jonathan Daniels Arch, where Hugh Gouldthorpe said a prayer. Before we knew it, we were standing on the steps of Preston Library for the class picture. After 65 years of taking pictures on these steps, you would think that arranging people would be easy, but it wasn’t. They were failing to remove sunglasses and hats, hiding their faces behind others, and of course, arguing with me. No wonder we never left the Rat Line! The ladies and all our guests joined us for one picture. Parade was incorrectly scheduled for 4 p.m. The new time, 4:30 p.m., was going to make it very difficult to get back to the motel, clean up, and attend our class dinner, but we did it. When it was our turn to pass in review, Jim Oliver carried the ’61 guidon and Jonathan Hirsch and my son-in-law, Mark Muckelbauer, carried our class banner. The brother rats stepped off lively. I tried to catch up with the last rank but fell behind. Thanks to those who assisted me off the Parade Ground. Tom Phlegar climbed to the top of the sentinel box and led the Corps of Cadets in an Old Yell for ’61. We immediately departed for buses back to the hotel. Our class dinner started with hors d’oeuvres and, of course, an open bar. Mitch Kot gave the invocation and prayer. The Southern Inn catered the buffet, which progressed nicely until they ran out of flank steak before the last two tables were served. The Southern Inn tried to recover by arriving 20 minutes later with a tray of steaks, but everyone had finished. Nice hail Mary to the Southern Inn. For the program, I kept my remarks very short—quick thanks to all who helped us gather and celebrate together. Dave Harbach introduced the guest speaker, Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87. For the next 40 minutes or so, we heard unscripted remarks of his vision for VMI. I believe most of our brother rats were pleased and impressed with what they heard. Larry Respess introduced the proclamation seeking the Congressional Medal of Honor for Bill Dabney, which the class unanimously approved. The evening ended with a Champagne toast to the nation, the troops, the superintendent, Corps of Cadets, the ladies, and the class. We concluded the evening with the singing of the “VMI Doxology”
and an Old Yell for ’61. Wednesday was breakfast and goodbyes as we headed home. It was very difficult to talk to everybody in such a short period of time. Fred and Carolyn Ayers look as young as ever and in good health. Tom Bradshaw had that smile we all remember. Tom is using a wheelchair with Faye at his side, letting nothing get in his way. Bill Braithwaite (in good health), still has that professorial look, and Wendy, the professor’s wife, was great to see. At our memorial service, Bill gave a great talk expressing many inner feelings that Jonathan Daniels felt about himself and the life decisions he made, including the Civil Rights movement. A brief excerpt from his talk follows: “During the 60 years following his death, Jon emerged into a modest fame. For two generations now, his fame has been recognized. Why? This is the question common to the three public speeches I have given about him during the last 10 years. ... I have been trying to find the heartbeat of his story. What is there in Jon’s life that deserves fame? Will this fame grow and continue? Can his example be emulated?” Should you like to read the entire speech, I will mail it to you. It is clearly worth the read and contemplating many an issue. I want to make a statement; I hope I don’t offend anyone. I love all our widows. I was extremely proud and happy that five widows attended the reunion. Nancy Eddy Bruce, Jan Clarkson, and Caroline Mabry are in good health. Sue Patrick was accompanied by her daughter, Donna. Sue has been a real trooper, managing to regularly attend BR funerals and class gatherings. Dianne Stone was accompanied by her son, Richard Stone ’88. Peggy Alligood fell and could not make it. (Peggy, recover quickly; we missed you.) Suzanne Carmichael was not able to join the class for reunion. She is saving her energy for two grandsons’ graduations (Clemson and West Point). Suzanne said, “Dick Weede and Mike were the best of friends throughout their 26 years in Lexington. Both men were the embodiment of iron-clad integrity and all the finest qualities VMI represents.” Only Anne Weede would have been happier than Mike to have seen Dick come through those pearly gates. Amen! As well as I can judge, all our widows are coping well with their life changes. Bill “Snake” Daniels and his wife, Sue, made it. Bill stands straight as a board, and he walks and works in his garden every day using a very tall cane for stability. At the class dinner, Bill, a true Southern gentleman, gave the Champagne toast to the ladies. “Brother rats, gentlemen, I stand before you to offer a toast to those who have assisted us, supported us, and encouraged us to have accomplished all that we have accomplished over 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes the last 65 years—our wives, our sweethearts, our mothers, our sisters. May God bless them all.” Ed Doleman is still writing books, and we enjoyed his company at our brother rat gathering in Northern Virginia. I am sure Allison Drescher can still fit in his cadet uniform. Allison accompanied Kim Wise to the reunion, and both are doing well. Gerri Eubank is in fair condition. His son, U.S. Navy Capt. Craig Eubank ’93, accompanied Gerri. Bill “Fuzzy” Fout was accompanied by his son, Skeet. Bill is doing OK but said Sandra is having issues. Ed Fox managed to make it and is doing OK. His wife, Sue, is having issues. David Harbach was accompanied by Sandra Coleman, and both are vibrant, playing golf whenever they can. At the class dinner, David introduced Superintendent Furness and, at the end of the dinner, led us in singing the “VMI Doxology.” Eubank, Fout, Fox, and Harbach were the only complete set of roommates present. Harrison Fridley is using a wheelchair but smiling broadly. Terry is doing great, and she still plays lots of bridge. They were accompanied by their son, Mitch Fridley ’89. Paul and Kristine “Rae” Goldman traveled from Fallon, Nevada, to be with us. I told Paul if he got to D.C., I would pick him up, and we would go together to the reunion, which we did. Paul, like many of us, is having trouble walking; however, Ray is doing fine. Paul gave the toast to the troops. “To the troops! To the men and women in uniform! The Army, the Navy, the Marines, the Air Force, the Coast Guard. May God bless them.” Raine and Clara Gilbert made it. Clara was not feeling well but still managed to attend a few events. Raine is a regular at our lunch get-togethers. Hugh and Nelle Gouldthorpe are in good health. A portion of the prayer Hugh composed for the Jonathan Daniels Arch gathering is as follows: “Lord, it is with humble hearts that we have come to this time and place to commemorate the life of Jonathan Daniels, our brother rat, a man of faith and conviction, who exemplified the ideals of courage and selfless service on a Saturday afternoon in the summer of 1965 when he gave his life in the fight for integration and the right to express oneself.” This past summer, the Gouldthorpes entertained my daughter, Lynn, and her family. Now, Lynn says Uncle “Goldie.” What a treat it was to see Lara and Nicole Haeberlein, accompanied by their husbands, Ryan and Mark. I am not sure which one, Ryan or Mark, helped me across the Parade Ground to the arch, but again, many thanks. The couples had a great time. I enjoyed seeing my daughter, Cathy, and her husband, Mark, rekindle relationships with brother rat children that began at many a football game long ago. Ray and Sally Hanlein never
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change and, thankfully, are in good health. Ray is a regular at our BR lunch get-togethers and, of course, still plays tennis on Wednesdays. George Henning walks 3 miles every day and is in good health. His friend Barbara Deattie accompanied George to the reunion. George said his VMI sons are doing well. My roommate, Carl Hirsch, and his wife, Rebecca, are in OK health. Their son, Jonathan, accompanied them, and I immediately enlisted Jonathan to help carry our class banner when we passed in review. Carl is also a regular at our lunches. Rod Hudgins made it to Lexington with his walking sticks and his son, Trip. Rod is doing OK and had a smile on every time I saw him. Paul Johnston is another who looks like he could fit into his cadet uniform. As you have heard me say many times, Paul is a brother rat I can rely on. At the dinner, Paul gave the toast to the VMI Corps of Cadets, which Paul extracted from a speech by Gen. Douglas MacArthur: “In the evening of my memory, I come back to VMI, to the echoes of duty, honor, country. This may be a final roll call with you. I want you to know when we cross the river, our last conscious thought will be of the Corps, the Corps, and the Corps! We bid you farewell.” I think it was fitting. What an effort it took for Bill Keech to be at the reunion. Every time I talked to him on the phone, Bill said he didn’t think he could make it. With help from his wife, Marcia, and his son, Bill Jr., Bill was there. When I walked over to Bill’s wheelchair to greet him, he stood up straight, smiling from ear to ear. What a sight to see. Marcia looks tired, and Bill has moved to the main facility. We arranged to have golf carts take him and others to the various activities—no one left behind! From Lynchburg came Lou and Jane Kiger. During a pre-reunion conversation, Lou wasn’t sure he could make it. He has had trouble with his back and a family crisis, but he made it. Two weeks after returning from reunion and their trip to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Lou fell on a concrete sidewalk and sustained a spinal compression fracture, along with a few other minor injuries. Lou is doing well overall, and Jane has been such a trooper. Mitch and Jennifer Kot captured the prize for looking the youngest. I wish I knew their secret. They have not returned to Vietnam in recent years, but Mitch is working on it. They enjoyed their skiing trip in Austria. For our class dinner, Mitch gave the invocation and prayer, a portion of which follows: “Dear Heavenly Father, we come before you with hearts full of gratitude for our education at VMI. We are grateful for our professors; we give thanks that we could be here today with our brother rats. Lord, we pray for our new superintendent and that you would grant him wisdom, discernment, and
strength leading VMI going forward.” Bill and Shon Maurer arrived safely from New Jersey, and they both look great. Bill joins the ranks of those who look like their Bomb picture. At the class memorial service, Bill recited the roll call of deceased brother rats. Bill always volunteers to read the roll call and, for as long as I can remember, does an outstanding job. Before I forget to mention it, and unbeknownst to me, we had a visitor sitting quietly at the end of one of the pews during the ceremony; it was our superintendent, Gen. David Furness. No recognition, no showy presence, just integrity and respect to a former class. “J.D.” Miller is still fit and works out every day, enjoying life. J.D. regularly attends our lunches. John “J.C.” Miller had an unexpected, exciting moment during our dinner when he got up, ran from the room, and we never saw him again. Trying to keep up with John’s rapid departure was Jim “Peaches” Miner. J.C. brought Jim to the reunion, so they both had to leave together. We later learned that J.C.’s wife, Bette, was rushed to the ER, and J.C. needed to return. John and Jim were able to fly to Roanoke through the help of one of J.C.’s partners—a private jet and, luckily, a pilot who readied the aircraft for the quick trip back. Bette is doing OK. As for Peaches, he looks healthy, and if his eyes were refurbished, he would again be playing golf. Bill Nelms said his cancer hasn’t spread yet and is doing OK, subject to the limitations imposed by his lack of energy and mobility. Andy and Peggy Myruski joined us for the festivities. Wintering in Florida has certainly kept them young. Peggy still enjoys her arts and crafts. Jim Oliver is coping well with the loss of his wife. Jim, with a smile of pride, carried the ’61 guidon as we passed in review. Barry Orndorff looks good, is coping with the loss of his wife, and had a smile on his face the whole time at the reunion. Speaking of people smiling and keeping in shape is Tom Phlegar. Tom still jumps out of planes on his birthday, does 1700s reenactments, plays the banjo, and for the class, Tom played taps at our memorial service. When we marched into the courtyard, Tom climbed to the top of the sentinel box two steps at a time to lead us in the Old Yell for ’61. At the conclusion of the class dinner, Tom set up some old movie equipment and showed movies of our earlier days at VMI, including earlier reunions. What a treat, especially for many of the children and family friends who were not there to experience with us life at the Institute. Tom is another I can always count on when I need help. I received a note from Earline Thompson, who still lives in South Africa, which read, “Lovely to read the reunion was so well attended and a happy
VMI Class of 1961 65th Reunion
Class Notes
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Class Notes one. May the spirit continue for many years yet it was all about. And frankly, I really didn’t do that gather here in this place that has been so influential in our lives. We thank you for the safe travto come.” Harvey Curlee could not attend the re- until a few weeks ago when Sal asked me to lead els and pray that we will also receive your safe union, as Joanne fell in the kitchen and broke her a toast to the Class of 1961.”As part of our memotravel blessings when we return home.” I wasn’t hip and her wrist. Joanne had hip replacement sur- rial service in Memorial Hall, John Tharrington gery March 9 and went to a rehab facility March researched the military records and, with the aid sure David Thomas would be with us at VMI and 15. While recovering, she was diagnosed with of Col. Keith Gibson, developed an accurate list was surprised when the Thomas clan, Edwina, critically low sodium levels and was rushed back of those brother rats in the VMI Hall of Valor. The Greg Thomas ’88, and Lori arrived from Marto the hospital. Joanne is in a weakened state and list was read that afternoon in Memorial Hall. It shall, Texas. David and Edwina are looking good. Dave moves a little slower, as most of us do. Greg the recovery process slow. Harvey has stayed with was both impressive and sobering. At dinner, John is working on exciting space projects. You have her throughout the hospital and rehab and start- toasted the nation: “In the immortal words of the ed modifications to their home to accommodate great Daniel Webster, ‘It is my loving sentiment, heard me talk about Larry Wetsel and his travels. I was happy when he found time to be with her return. Bob and Bronnie Polk are both playing and by the blessing of God it shall be my dying golf and enjoying living in Mount Pleasant, South sentiment, independence now and independence us (smile) and bring his lovely wife, Jerri. At our Carolina. Bob tells me he’s been trying to get Bob forever.’ Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your dinner, Larry toasted the superintendent: “May God bless the 16th superintendent of Winslow back into the VMI activities, VMI, Lieutenant General David J. Furas they both live in the same area. It was ness, with great wisdom, perseverance, so nice to see Kenner Rice and Nancy grace, and fortitude leading VMI as an Lew at the reunion. Kenner is still workinstitution that honors God and couning, and from what he tells me, he is not try.” After the reunion, they were off to retiring anytime soon, as he’s in good another venue. God bless their energy; health and still has a lot of research to maybe he could spare me some? Robert do. Kenner occasionally joins us at our and Kay Williamson drove from Virlunches. Larry and Joann Respess are ginia Beach, with Kay doing most of the doing fine. Larry has been very involved driving. The newlyweds seem to be enin trying to convince the VMI Alumni joying life. It was hit or miss on health Association to revise their bylaws, etc., issues with Dick and Judy Youngblood. and to be open to “real elections.” It is Judy has not been feeling well, so I was falling on deaf ears. Recently, I asked really pleased they made it. Dick is still Larry to take a co-lead with John Tharworking with his daughter on the design rington to prepare documents to conand construction of multimillion dollar vince those individuals responsible for homes in the Richmond area. approving a Medal of Honor for BrothThere were several other non-VMI er Rat Bill Dabney that he is worthy Class of 1961: Sal Vitale, Paul Goldman, Sue Vitale, and Rae Goldman in Washington, D.C., April 12, 2026. graduates who helped make our reof such recognition. The first step was union a success. Some were chauffeurs, to prepare a proclamation prepared by Larry and approved by the class to be distribut- glasses to toast a free and independent nation, the wheelchair assistance, etc., and I would like to ed to those military and congressional people who United States of America, and may it always re- mention them: Ryan Daniels, Skeet Fout, Jonathan Hirsch, Mark and Cathy (Vitale) Muckcould make it happen. Superintendent Furness is main so.” in favor of the effort and signed our proclamation. Tom Rutledge and his guest, Cynthia Deaton, elbauer, Trip Hudgins, Bill Keech Jr., and Mark This is not a small undertaking, and I am grate- traveled from Charleston, South Carolina, to be Perryman. The VMI sons who helped were ful to have two brother rats, Larry and John, to with us. Tom is still practicing law and is in good Craig Eubank ’93, Mitch Fridley ’89, and Dave agree to take the lead. For the toast to the class, I health. About 2 weeks before the reunion, I was Thomas ’88. There were a few people missing asked Larry if he would honor us. It is quite long, on the phone with Holmes Smith. He was still re- from the gathering. Gaylia Hudgins was on a bus so I offer only a small bit: “When, 69 years ago, covering from his hospital stay and wasn’t sure if trip. Ed Hollowell had a stroke. Phyllis said at this you and I stood in formation for the first time on he could make the reunion. The following week, time, it seems only his speech is affected. Ashby and Sandra Taylor could not drive, as Ashby’s dethe Parade Ground on that fateful September day I was on the phone with him again, and he said he in 1957, having signed the Matriculation Book, to was getting ready to come to reunion, and he was mentia has gotten worse. Their house is for sale, be assigned the companies in which most of us going to drive himself in his Maserati. I suggested and they have moved to assisted living in Onancock, Virginia. Dude Copenhaver was not feelwould spend the next 4 years, I had no real appre- he get a driver, but he insisted he do it himself, and ciation of the journey, a lifetime journey, really, he did! Holmes is still working and trying to get ing well enough to drive to Lexington, as was upon which we had embarked. I think most of you his grandson registered to take over the business. Bob Reitz. Bill Hala said it was too far away. I didn’t either. But over the next 4 years, we solClayton and Jan Smith traveled from Amelia Is- called Don Kern, sent him reunion documents, diered together until a few more than half of us in land, Florida, to be with us. Jan is still recover- and I never heard back. Harold Kurstedt said formation that first day walked across the stage to ing from her fall, and Clayton is moving a little he could not return because the Stonewall Jackson statue is gone. I had hoped that Frank Oley receive those beautiful diplomas we are so proud slower. At lunch, Clayton offered the prayer, a of today. But when I left Lexington on that last portion of which follows: “Heavenly Father, Lord would come and have a farewell drink with us, but he didn’t. I hear he is in OK health. Spike and day of our cadetship, I didn’t pause to think what God, we thank you for the gift of being able to
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Class Notes
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Class of 1961 1. John Tharrington, Bill Keech, and Sal Vitale at the class dinner during the 65th Reunion in April 2026.
5. Clayton Smith (seated) and Hugh Gouldthorpe at the Jonathan Daniels memorial during the 65th Reunion in April 2026.
2. Dave Harbach, Gerry Eubank, Bill Fout, and Ed Fox, all former roommates, at the 65th Reunion in April 2026.
6. Sue Vitale, Lou Shuba, and Pris Shuba at the Shubas’ home in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, May 5, 2026.
3. Jim Oliver carrying the guidon with Paul Johnston; Barry Orndorff; and Mark Muckelbauer, Sal Vitale’s son-in-law, at the 65th Reunion in April 2026.
7. Bill Keech (seated) and Mitch Kot during the 65th Reunion in April 2026. In the background are (seated) Jim Oliver, Clayton Smith, and (standing) Larry Wetsel.
4. Tom Phlegar leads an Old Yell for the class during the 65th Reunion in April 2026.
8. Caroline Mabry, Jan Clarkson, and Nancy Eddy Bruce at the 65th Reunion in April 2026. In the background are Ron Hudgins and his son, Trip.
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Class Notes Mary Callander are hanging in. Spike was in the hospital for 3 days having a bunch of tests done after he collapsed as he was exiting dialysis several weeks ago; the nephrologists dialed 911 and had him sent to Loudoun Hospital. The only thing he tested positive was for rhinitis, the common cold, which was giving him congestion and a bad cough, most likely his BP going too low. Once he was released, the cough and congestion went away and he’s doing OK, doing some home PT and OT. Sylvia Woodcock said Stu was not well. Manny Puette was unable to attend the reunion, as he no longer travels well due to his continuing treatment for prostate cancer. If you remember, Manny roomed with Richard Butler for their first 2 years. Tom Whalen is getting around on a walker. “One fake leg was a whole lot easier than two.” Tom Jones would not be at the reunion but ordered a ’61 hat so he could give an Old Yell. Tom say he has not been out of his home (except to go to the doctor) in years. Archie Ramirez had back surgery again but now is doing well with his service dog. He purchased a Tesla 4-wheel drive with fully automatic driving capabilities and a total electric house. Archie was coming east after the reunion to visit Hill Browning and then off to Norfolk to see his two sons. The Browning annual racetrack week at the Keeneland Racetrack in Lexington, Kentucky, was during reunion, so again, Hill wasn’t with us. In September, the Brownings will be in St. Maarten for their annual visit to Kay’s Jewelers, a business with which Pete Roberts and I are far too familiar. During our March visit to the island, we got together with
Pete and Carol Roberts for dinner, and we saw all our buddies at Kay’s. Jim Harrison called to tell me that his legs were too weak to walk. Jim called Harriotte McDannald, and she is staying very busy. John Gangemi is still hanging in. His Parkinson’s has worsened. For the past few months, Lou and Priscilla “Pris” Shuba have been dealing with Lou’s medical issues. Lou developed infection in his legs and a blood infection, which impacted his right stump. All kinds of doctors, IVs, pills, etc., weren’t working, and days and weeks in the hospital. Finally, the infections are under control, not cured, and Lou has lost weight, etc. Several times a week, I call him, and his answer is the same: “OK.” A week after the reunion, Sue and I drove to Gettysburg to visit with them. He looks OK but has no energy. We went to lunch, and of course, Lou drove to the restaurant and after took us on a tour of the battlefield. They both are good tour guides. Lou says Howard Dyers’ Parkinson’s is giving him trouble. According to Wetsel, who talked to Kent Modine, Kent had a bad fall and hurt his back. A few of you have asked about Lt. Col. Megan Ederle. She lives with her mother on Long Island, New York; didn’t get married; and is still dating a soldier who is currently stationed at Fort Drum. (Makes dating difficult.) The BR group met for lunch at the Firebird in Woodbridge, Virginia. Attending were Hirsch, Holmes Smith, Hanlein, Respess, Russell Stone, Wetsel, Youngblood, Bill Daniels, Tharrington, Gilbert, and Vitale. Bill Braithwaite was not there, as he was with his son’s newborn baby. J.D. Miller had a family emergency, and Doleman
Class of 1961: Attending an early arrivals social during the 65th Reunion in April 2026 are (front row, center table) Sally Hanlein, Tom Rutledge, Cynthia Deaton, Ray Hanlein, Cathy Vitale Muckelbauer, Jonathan Hirsch, Sue Vitale, Sal Vitale, Mark Muckelbauer, Robert Williamson, Kay Williamson, (second row, left table) Bill Maurer, Carl Hirsch, Paul Goldman, Rae Goldman, Becky Hirsch, Shon Maurer, (second row, right table) David Harbach, Ed Fox, Tom Phlegar, Clayton Smith, George Henning, Barbara Deattie, Sandra Coleman, (third row, left table) Dave Thomas, Edwina Thomas, Gregg Thomas ’88, Ed Doleman, (third row, center table) Nancy Lew, Kenner Rice, Donna Patrick, Sue Patrick, Bronnie Polk, Bob Polk, (thrid row, right table) Laura Haeberlein Daniels, Ryan Daniels, Mark Perryman, Nicole Haeberlein Perryman, (back row, left table) Jerri Wetsel, Larry Wetsel, Hugh Gouldthorpe, and Nelle Pender Gouldthorpe.
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was not feeling well. It was great the Williamsburg and Richmond brother rats made the trip. I hope you realize I am aware that you, my brother rats, spouses, and friends, returning to VMI was not a minor undertaking. Reunion taught me one thing this time around: The lengths that people of our class will go to get together to celebrate one another. I am honored to assist. You have shown a commitment to the class which is envied by other classes. Our class historian, Roger Spencer, could not be with us and sent the following message: “Hi, Sal: While watching the golfing efforts of Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy and pondering the joys of our classmates returned to Lexington, I had some thoughts derived from an Irish poem. ‘May the road rise up to meet you as you march that long green Parade Ground out-of-step, out-of-breath, but proud of this moment; may the wind be always at your back to move you along with your cane and unwilling knees; may the sun shine warm upon your face as you gaze through thick glasses toward the unchanging splendor of House Mountain; may the rain fall soft upon your field while you relax with old friends in the comfort of [Memorial] Hall; and until we meet again at this exact spot 5 years from now; may God hold you in the palm of his hand to bless you and keep you in eternal health and happiness.’ Have a marvelous time. Roger Spencer.” This quarter, we lost several more brother rats: Richard C. Butler passed away Feb. 27, 2024, in Whitefish, Montana. Richard was born March 10, 1939, in Clifton Forge, Virginia, and attended VMI for 3 years. Richard graduated from Virginia Tech and went to work for the Department of Water Resources in California, retired, and moved to Montana in 2003. He was a volunteer at the Marion Fire Department. His hobbies included hunting and fishing. John David Martin passed away March 2, 2026, in Richmond, Virginia. David earned his undergraduate degree in physics at VMI and later pursued a master’s degree in physics at the College of William & Mary (1963), where he met his wife, Sandra. David completed a Ph.D. in nuclear physics at the University of Florida before accepting a 2-year Air Force assignment in Sacramento, California. In the 1970s, David and Sandra and their two young sons relocated to Montvale, New Jersey, where they enjoyed long, meaningful careers. David spent 27 years with Teledyne Isotopes, retiring as vice president. Retired U.S. Marine Col. Richard Dunton “Dick” Weede passed away in an assisted living facility in Tampa, Florida. Dick was a Marine and had a distinguished record. In the Marine Corps, he was an infantry officer and commanded many
Class Notes units: A rifle company in Vietnam; Marine Barracks Washington, D.C. (8th & I); and the School of Infantry in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He was awarded the Silver Star for his actions in Vietnam’s Leatherneck Square, and in recognition of his actions, there is an exhibit at the Marine Museum featuring Dick. A private, family-only funeral will be held on Final Hill Farm in Lexington, Virginia. As I close out my notes, I have a final request. Please share the Review with your family who attended the reunion and do not have access to the Review. My daughter, Cathy, who attended the reunion, made a good observation. This reunion, the brother rats extended the class with the children and friends of our brothers. We need to keep everyone connected. I can only hope I did not forget any brother rat who provided me with information. Please let me hear from you. God bless you, our country, the troops, the Institute, our new superintendent, and the VMI Corps of Cadets.
1962
Edmund R. Strickler John Mott Robertson
I am sorry to report that Dennis Merklinger passed away March 13. Dennis came to the Institute from Pottstown, Pennsylvania. As a scholar and an athlete, he graduated high school from the Hill School in Pottstown. He was later honored by the Hill School when inducted into its hall of fame for both football and wrestling. Merk played and lettered in an unheard-of four sports at VMI, which included winning the Southern Conference wrestling championship. After graduating from VMI, Dennis went on to study dentistry at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, where he graduated with a D.M.D. degree. While at VMI, Dennis met Mary Linda Standing, and they were married while he was in dental school. They were married for 62 years, and during that time, Dennis had several dental practices at Virginia Beach, and they raised a family of four children. He was very active in civic organizations in his community and enjoyed time with his children and grandchildren. Dennis will
be missed by all in the Class of ’62. On March 31, Howard Cobb passed away. He was born in Ithaca, New York, but following World War II, his family moved to Piney River, Virginia, where his father was president of the Virginia Blue Ridge Railway. Howard graduated from E.C. Glass High School in Lynchburg and from the Institute in 1962, then served in the Army from February 1963–February 1965 as a first lieutenant for a Nike Hercules missile battery in West Germany. After earning an MBA from the University of Virginia, Howard worked for Westvaco Corporation out of Covington, Virginia, for 35 years. He was a devoted family man, known for his integrity and as a loyal and reliable friend. He was a staunch VMI alumnus and served as our class agent from 1987–92. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Nell; their children, Mary Louise and Kenneth, and his wife, Maria; his grandchildren, George and Henry; his sisters, Mary and Linda, and her husband, Rick; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. At least 13 brother rats were in attendance at his funeral April 9, along with many wives. As is becoming a custom, Mott Robertson led us in an Old Yell for Howard. He will be missed by all. John Shelhorse informed me that Pat Morrison’s wife, Sharon, passed away very unexpectedly April 18. Pat had been dealing with some health issues before and then broke both hips in separate falls. Sharon’s son and his wife and Pat’s two boys and their wives stepped in to help. Pat’s oldest son, Trick, lives in California, and they drove Pat there at the last of April. His new address is 17738 Francesca Road, Room 354, Victorville, CA 92395. I am sorry to report that Nancy, Bobby Mitchell’s wife, passed away April 21. She met Bobby when they were both in high school in Alexandria. Nancy graduated from Mary Washington College of the University of Virginia in 1962 and soon thereafter married Bobby, who had just graduated from the Institute. They then moved to Lexington, where Bobby attended Washington and Lee Law School. I am also sorry to report that Alex Raney passed away Monday, May 4, 2026. Alex was born and grew up in Zuni, Virginia, enjoying time hunting—sometimes on his own and often with his father, uncles, and friends—and helping his father run the general store in Zuni. After his father passed away suddenly from a heart attack March 19, 1961, Alex returned home to Zuni to help his mother, Pearl, run the general store his father left behind. He subsequently voluntarily enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served for 2 years and attained the rank of sergeant before returning
again to Zuni. Alex eventually moved to Virginia Beach, where he met the love of his life, Cathy, and patiently waited until she was ready to marry him in 1970. Alex’s claim to fame came in our rat year at the Institute. One or 2 years previously, a singer and pianist, Clarence “Frogman” Henry, had a hit song called “Ain’t Got No Home.” The third verse was sung in a very deep voice resembling a frog and contained one verse singing, “I’m a lonely frog.” It seems that Alex could imitate “Frogman” Henry’s frog voice to perfection, and therefore, he was forever known to our class as Frog. Much later in life, I once asked him if he minded being called Frog. He just said, “Once a Frog, always a Frog.” R.I.P., Frog. You will be missed. Larry and Betsy Wilson recently experienced an interesting coincidence at Springmoor, the continuing care facility in Raleigh where they now live. A man escorting his mother down the hall noticed a VMI sticker on something of Larry’s and stopped to tell him that his great-great-grandfather had gone to VMI. (Class of 1867!) They chatted with him on the phone later and got more details. He is John Logan, a retired attorney in Raleigh who has done extensive historical research and been in contact with the VMI history museum staff. His great-great-grandfather was George W. Logan ’867, and John Lee Logan ’867, his younger brother by a year-and-a-half, from Goochland County, Virginia. In August 1862, they matriculated into the VMI Class of 1867 as fifth year freshmen from their boarding school, Loch Loman, in Winchester. John left the Institute in late 1863 to enlist in a Virginia calvary company, and George followed suit a few months later. George was captured after being wounded in late May 1864 at Wilson’s Wharf in Charles City County, Virginia. Both brothers survived the rest of the war and went on to develop careers and get married. The rest of the Logan family moved from Goochland to Salem, Virginia, and there, both brothers and their wives are buried in East Hill Cemetery. Bruce Seiling’s widow, Sheila, recently had a question or two about the email I sent out about the demise of Moody Hall. She looked up the plans online and watched a video of the new facilities and felt it looked reminiscent of Moody Hall. She has fond memories of Moody Hall but realizes that time marches on. Sheila is doing well but still misses Bruce, as do we all. Lou Ritchie writes that he and Sue are still very much enjoying their retirement life at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. They have been there about 24 years now, and it truly is their second home. Their kids come to visit 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes played all over the U.S. He enjoys from time to time, which is somehis church, singing in the choir, thing they always look forward to. and playing piano celebration Sue had an unfortunate accident songs at his old buddies’ funerals in mid-December at a local superwho have crossed over the river. In market where, after checking out, his spare time, he is publishing the she turned around, tripped and fell, second edition of his copyrighted and broke her right femur, which book and writing another book. required surgery 2 days later. She’s Their children and grandchildren still working on her rehab at this are all healthy and doing well. And time but getting much better each finally, he enjoys watching all the day. The big event for them was animals; feeding them with protein Sunday, March 10, when the pasplants; and watching deer, bear, tor at their church called them up quail, turkey, and rabbit hunt on to the altar during the 10:30 Mass his hunting preserve. Jerry feels he to renew their vows for their 60th has been mighty blessed, and life wedding anniversary in front of the is good. entire congregation. It was a wonClass of 1962: Columbus Cartwright, Dick Willard, Bill Mizell, John TraynI saw Dave Plageman at Howderful and beautiful experience in ham, and Rosser Bobbitt attend Dennis Merklinger’s funeral in Virginia Beach, Virginia, March 18, 2026. ard Cobb’s funeral, and he menwhich their girls came down from tioned that he has five grandchilup north, also. Next for Lou and dren that have either attended or are attending Sue is late July when they have a 10-day Alaska VMI. It seemed like quite a legacy, and I asked for cruise out of Vancouver. This will be their second details. Here is what he said. Three have graduattime up there, but they are definitely looking fored, and two are rising 1st Class cadets in the fall. ward to it. Lou sends best wishes to all brother rats Both are linebackers on the football team and like and their families. the new coach and his staff very much. He has 17 Marc Muth says that all is in good shape. He grandchildren, and they keep Nancy and him very has some strange aches and pains, but the immubusy: Nine girls and eight boys. He has a chance notherapy seems to keep the thing he has from of getting one more grandson to the Institute. He spreading. He remains immortal and is enjoying will be a senior at Benedictine in Richmond in the a beautiful spring. fall. The rest of the family thinks he is dreaming, Bill Mizell wishes he had something exciting but you never know. to say; however, life is pretty mundane in his reIn conjunction with this, I received a note from tirement condo. The view of the Chesapeake Bay Charles Plageman ’90, Dave’s son, that the conkeeps him entertained most of the time with the Class of 1962: George Collins (second from nection is actually deeper than suggested by his activities of beach life. He passes time working left, with Sully the dog) with fellow memfather’s words. One of Charles’ roommates at out with yoga, light weights, and walking when bers of the Fisher Island men’s nine-hole VMI married his sister. They had three boys. All the weather allows several days a week. He is still championship golf team at Fisher Island, three are graduates or currently at VMI (one of involved in the financial markets, having spent Florida, April 18, 2026. the rising 1sts). Charles has two other sisters, and 47 years in the business before retiring in 2014, each has a graduate or current cadet. His brother and he falsely assumes it keeps his brain active has a son, who is the high school student menand alert. The good thing is that his family is only tioned. Sadly, neither of his two daughters was in15 minutes from where he lives, so he sees them terested, but he now has a grandson with a proviquite often. His great-granddaughter just got bracsional appointment in the works! I don’t know if es at 15, and she is actually happy about that! She any other family can match this, but it would be is a sophomore at Princess Anne High School in interesting to know! Virginia Beach. It seems like it was just yesterday Cal Seybold and his family (to include his son, that the two of them were jumping the waves in Clint Seybold ’92) went to Kansas City in March the ocean, and she was only 3 years old! to see the American historical documents on the Jerry Burnett says he and Joy spent 6 weeks on 250th anniversary of our nation, which were in Hilton Head Island, which they have been doing the federal government Liberty Flight at the the last 3 years. Jerry is still timber farming; raising Kansas City World War I Museum. They waitsoybeans, corn, and wheat; excavating; and finished approximately 2 hours in lines for a 15-mining up on his last developments. They are both in Class of 1962: Bob and Beverly Evans with ute viewing of the Declaration of Independence good health, and his Moe Norman golf swing is reJohn Duke Anthony at John’s home in Mcand related documents. It was worth it! The docally leading to great ball striking. He enjoys SouthLean, Virginia, in summer 2025. Not picument that surprised him the most was a booklet ern Senior golf trips all over the U.S., as well as the tured is Cynthia Anthony. with the voting records of the attendees and the Masters Dermatology Golf Association, which is
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Class Notes fact that the signatures to the Constitution were on a separate page and slightly “messy” due to the pens and ink used. They also visited the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City’s Money Museum, which presented a 250-year history of our money. Finally, they visited the Arabia Steamboat Museum, which housed items recovered from the Arabia steamboat, which was sunk in the Missouri River in 1857. Because Bob Yearout lives in the KC area, they scheduled a great lunch with Bob and Marcia Yearout at the Kansas City Union Train Station before heading home. It was a great visit for an old man and his immediate family. Ed Vinieratos sent me the following information about a humorous incident that recently happened to him during a medical problem he had. “A few days after Orthodox Easter in 2026, I found myself in the back of an ambulance racing through Athens toward a hospital with the improbably optimistic name, Elpis: ‘Hope.’ The irony wasn’t lost on me. I had arrived with a severe case of hematuria, complete with blockage, pain, and the kind of discomfort that makes time slow to a crawl. Life in the ward settled into a strange, suspended rhythm. We lay on our backs day and night, tethered to hydration and gallbladder-flushing IVs that hung above us like silent sentinels. The doctors moved through the room with brisk efficiency, speaking little, communicating mostly through the nurses’ notes clipped to the ends of our beds. It was a necessary system, but a lonely one. My fellow patients spoke only Greek, and I spoke none. Messages from friends—emails, WhatsApp pings—became small lifelines of connection.
Then there was Dr. Macrete—his surname rendered here phonetically—who made his rounds alone and, unlike the others, occasionally paused to speak. When he first saw my name, he brightened. He, too, was from Kefalonia, the island where my father had been born. A small island in the Ionian Sea, south of Corfu and east of Italy, it had suddenly become a bridge between us. He
Class of 1962: Bill and Sue Ritchie after renewing their wedding vows on their 60th anniversary, March 10, 2026.
Class of 1962: Attending Howard Cobb’s funeral in Richmond, Virginia, April 9, 2026, are (seated) Doug Marechal, (first row, from left) Henry Cobb, Bill Bryant, Mott Robertson, Al Crannis, Nell Cobb, George Cobb, Kenneth Cobb ’89, Carolyn Worrell (second row) Don Kane, Edmund Strickler, Buck Bradley, Columbus Cartwright, Dave Plageman, Eldridge Blanton, Dave Wagner, and Richard Thomas. Not pictured is Ware Smith.
spoke to me in Greek. I had to admit I didn’t understand a word. His expression fell. Trying to salvage the moment, I switched languages and asked in Russian, ‘Do you speak Russian?’ He blinked, recalibrated, and countered with a playful, ‘Parlezvous?’ I responded with my best attempt at French: ‘No parley vous français.’ (The correct version, of course, would have been ‘Non, je ne parle pas français.’) The doctor retreated quickly, perhaps embarrassed, but the exchange drew quiet laughter from the other patients. For the first time in days, the room felt lighter. Later, a memory surfaced— one of my father’s stories from my childhood in Virginia. When the doctor returned, I shared it with him, and it became another unexpected point of connection. During the first world war, the French fleet had taken refuge in Argostoli Harbour on Kefalonia. My father was a teenager then, and his father—my grandfather—served as the town’s mayor and doctor. (A similar figure appears in the 2001 film ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin,’ set during the second world war.) For reasons never fully explained, the French Navy arrested my grandfather and deported him to North Africa for the duration of the war. Left without his father’s support, my teenage father rowed around the anchored French ships, singing the French national anthem, ‘La Marseillaise,’ and holding out his inverted hat to catch the coins tossed down by amused sailors. He always began with the opening line: ‘Allons enfants de la Patrie ...’ (‘Arise, children of the Fatherland ...’) Years later, when I studied French in high school, my father delighted in helping me. He said I spoke with the proper nasal quality. But halfway through the year, I transferred to a school in Alabama, where French wasn’t offered. My brief linguistic career ended there. Had I learned the language better, perhaps I could have impressed Dr. Macrete with a proper: ‘Parlez, docteur, s’il vous plaît.’ (‘Speak, doctor, please.’) Instead, he got my improvised blend of Greek, Russian, and fractured French—a small comic moment in a place that needed one.” Ed also sent the following about a kind encounter last summer. “Athens, Greece, in summer 2025 was roughly the temperature of a wellseasoned cast-iron skillet. I ventured out anyway, clutching my annual Social Security, ‘Yes, I’m still alive’ form—because nothing says ‘vital citizen’ like sweating through government paperwork. Halfway up the hill, the so-called ‘temperature lull’ gave up on me. I ducked into a convenience store for cold air and learned the post office had mysteriously relocated. No one knew where. It had apparently joined the Witness Protection Program. “That’s when Andreas M. appeared—part Greek man, part air-conditioned miracle. He’d lived in 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes Memphis, Tennessee, so we bonded over the Peabody Hotel ducks, which march with more dignity than I had that day. Seeing I was melting into a small human puddle, he insisted I rest. Then he disappeared on a quest and returned having found a courier service—and paid to send my letter. He refused reimbursement, banking details, everything except giving me his email, which he then heroically ignored. He saved me. I’m still grateful. And still alive, in case Social Security is reading.” A word about the picture with four golfers, including George Collins. These four won the men’s nine-hole championship at the Fisher Island Golf Club April 18. The gentleman on the left side of the picture is Dr. Mark Sinnreich, George’s orthopedic doctor in Miami. George has been recovering from hip surgery, and this was the first time he was able to take a full swing. At 85, he is the oldest in the group. His dog, Sully, is 10 years old. He sits on the golf cart and howls like a wolf—if other teams get to close in score, that is. Sully attended our last reunion, as well. George apologized for the Notre Dame High School baseball hat. He didn’t think they would win; otherwise, he would have worn a VMI shirt and hat. John and Cynthia Anthony report that Robert and Beverly Evans recently spent a weekend with them at the Anthonys’ home in McLean, Virginia. They spent time reminiscing and catching up over dinners and spent a day visiting museums in Washington. Remember that our 65th Reunion will be April 12–13, 2027. Put it on your calendar. That wraps it up for this quarter. In the Spirit, Edmund
1963
1, 2025–March 31, 2026. That is out of 108 living members of the class. That number represents 45% of living graduates. Giving during that period totaled $578,000.04. From July 1–Sept. 30, 2025, the Class of ’63 gave $160,127.87, ranking first among all classes from 1949B–2025. Second place was $100,935. For the second quarter of FY26, our total was $452,316.58, again ranking first among all classes. Second was $413,743.26. For Q3 of FY26, ’63 was second with $578,000.04. First was $1,152,393.92. I compiled the foregoing to congratulate you. I am truly proud of your generosity and demonstrated dedication. I am humbled to be your classmate. That’s not all. When I asked Bill Wells to take over the T.T. Oliver scholarship fund, he responded with a summary far beyond what I expected. Here is his report, unedited in part: “As you know, Bunny Reynolds oversaw the Captain Thomas Tucker Oliver Class of 1963 Scholarship Fund from its creation in 2003 until his recent untimely passing last year. Largely due to Bunny’s dedication, the fund has grown over the years and enabled over 20 cadets to receive financial support since the award of the first scholarship in 2004. The recipients represent a diversity of majors, and a number of the individual grants have been for multiple years. As you may know, the scholarship provides need-based awards with first preference to residents of Bedford County, Virginia, where Tucker was a resident. The market value of the fund is approaching $800,000. The amount available for scholarships is the amount of investment return Sept. 30 of a given year, with a board-approved spending rate of 4.25%. For instance, the FY25 amount available for our class scholarships was $21,473.60. The
amount available and the recipients for 2026 is not yet available. VMI is the fourth most expensive among 15 institutions of higher learning in Virginia. Scholarships given at VMI lower our ranking to 15th! Our class is to be commended for being part of this outstanding program through their support of the Tucker Oliver scholarship fund.” The following are Bill’s remarks, edited: Further, a native of Bedford County, Bill lives in Lexington and is able to visit VMI Foundation officers and others who oversee the Institute’s financial aid programs and also meet the cadets who currently receive the class scholarship. He recently attended the annual Foundation Scholarship Banquet, where scholarship donors and representatives met and visited with the cadet recipients. He met one of our current cadet recipients, Cadet Gracie Harlow ’27 from Buchanan, Virginia (a small community just northwest of Bedford County). Gracie is the editor of The Cadet newspaper, a history and English double major, and a member of the track and field team. She transferred to VMI after 2 years at another college and was in the Rat Line at the age of 21. There is also a second cadet recipient who is Class of ’29 and a history major. However, he was unable to attend the banquet. Wells reports that while the emphasis was on donor and recipient interaction, there were brief comments by the new superintendent, Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87. Having met and heard him speak previously, he said Gen. Furness’ comments reinforced his very positive opinion that the new superintendent is very intelligent and has a great sense of humor. Bill thinks we have an excellent leader to get us through the current political attacks on the Institute. Brother Rats Bill “Sleepy” Moore and David Wade, who both donate their own scholarships, were also at the banquet. VMI finals May 16–17 were to be attended by
William C. Cowardin
While reviewing the periodic summaries sent out by Corri Sensabaugh at the Alumni Agencies showing the gifts by class, I noticed that the Class of 1963 always ranked at the very top of the giving tables. I called to ask Ms. Sensabaugh if the tables were accurate and got an answer in the affirmative. Therefore, I thought it would be of interest to summarize some of the information on those tables. According to the information sent, 58 of the class gave to the Institute during the period July
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Class of 1963: Lee Spessard, Bob Nussey, Bill Bell, Ed Patnesky, Jim Key, John Mills, Bob Walton, Beau Walker, and Bill Cowardin at the Hampton Yacht Club April 8, 2026.
Class Notes the waiting list is so long (this was Jud and Cathy Downs, who are 18 months). Burial ceremonies with making the trip from Franklin, a coffin are much longer. Tennessee. Jud will no doubt be Such a long waiting list has preparing one of his Cajun feasts prompted Sherrel and me to a simfor a dinner at Peggy and Steve ilar decision. We’ve chosen a cemReithmiller’s. etery in Columbus, Georgia. Her The Rockbridge Chapter reparents are buried there, and we first cently had a dinner with the basmet at Fort Benning back in 1963. ketball team and coaches. Coach Bill McVey: “Millie and I took a Wilson says that with recoveries weeklong trip together to show my from injuries and in spite of the family my hometown of Havre de portal, we have the nucleus of an Grace, Maryland, then went around excellent team, and he predicts the top of the bay and down the EastClass of 1963: Jim McMahon, Preston Holtry, and Pat Kelly in Tubac, Aria much-improved season. If the zona. ern Shore, stopping at all of my fateam is playing in your area, be vorite places to have steamed crabs sure to attend the game and suphis wife, Teak. This fall broke his pelvis in three and other great bay catches. port them. “This was last August 2025 at a great restaurant places. “In the ambulance ride to the hospital, he On April 8, the Tidewater contingent of ’63 had another of their bimonthly lunches at the Hamp- wanted to be sure I had his ever-present VMI cap. on the Del Mar Canal. It provides a cut-through from the Chesapeake Bay to Delaware Bay. It’s a Of course, I did.” He was lucid in the ER until sudton Yacht Club under the aegis of Bob Walton. As little town here—Chesapeake City, Maryland, if usual, discussion was lively, and the brotherhood denly he wasn’t. He never regained consciousness. “But sometimes he still squeezed my hand,” Teak you want to check it on the map. reconfirmed. “The upper Eastern Shore is so quiet ... rural, said. With Mike Curley reporting back problems We are all saddened at misfortune and deaths of low population, farming, corn fields, huge tomaplacing him on the gim, the Richmond BRs are our brother rats and their wives. We mourn those toes, soybeans. All along the bayfront, workboats without an organizer for their periodic lunches. are fishing, crabbing. If you’re at a restaurant on who have left us, and I take no pleasure in reportBill Wells reports that Kent Wilson is suffering the water around noon, you’re likely to see a boat ing their departure, but I note with pride the actions from Parkinson’s and facing disabilities. Lastly, the sad part of class notes: Harry Fletcher of those of us who carry on. You continue to excel pull up to sell its day’s catch. Further out in the bay, power and sailboats are coming and going. I Tatum passed Dec. 15, 2025, in Charlotte, North as an amazing class. I am grateful to be one of us. would live there the rest of my life if I could. Carolina. He was a history major and served 2 “Back to reality. Big announcement: Millie years as a tank unit commander. Later, he became and I will be moving to a retirement community a private pilot and was known for extensive civic in Wilmington as of Sept. 1, after 34 years here, activity. An extensive obituary appears online via John R. Cavedo leaving many wonderful friends (and heading for a Google search. 1,200 square feet from 2,800). It has been a very Latham M. Ewers Jr. died Feb. 3, 2026. He difficult decision to accept, but our family, as well transferred to UVA after his rat year. He practiced as several longtime friends, are back East, as well law at Hunton & Williams. as our ties to the coast where we spent so many Jane Greene, widow of John Greene, passed When I became class agent nearly 21 years ago, wonderful, happy summers. Might even get to anaway Nov. 19, 2025, in Mandeville, Louisiana. other VMI reunion or two. Bill Garber will be just I made a promise to myself that the Class of 1964 Michael Trent Smither passed away April 25, would always have something in the Alumni Re- an hour away.” 2026, after a lengthy illness. Mike continually asSherrel and I have made a similar decision. view. But, without input from brother rats, it’s getserted his interest in class affairs and demonstrated We’ve put a deposit down on a continuing care a lifelong allegiance to the class and the Institute in ting harder and harder. I need help. community across the river in Fort Myers, FlorIn March, Dick and Susan Atkinson, Bob WarEssex, Massachusetts. ren, and Sherrel and I met for lunch at a restaurant ida. Like Bill and Millie, we’re coming to grips Tom Whitford died May 10, 2026, in the arms alongside Lake Okachobee (halfway between our with having to get rid of more than half our worldof his wife, Teak, at their oceanside condo in Dayly belongings. I’m not sure if it’s good or bad, but tona Beach, Florida. Tom was recovering from two coasts). Cathy had a cold so, at the last minute, two falls and three major surgeries since March 2, decided not to join us. Very thoughtful not want- there is a nearly yearlong waiting list. The good 2025, to treat both his broken hips. He had fought ing to give a bunch of really old people a cold of news is that the friends we’ve made in Cape Coral will still only be a 20-minute ride away. his way back to taking a few independent steps our own. We had met at the same restaurant a year In that line of thinking, I wonder how many othwith his cane on the day before his third and fatal earlier, and it was very nice. This year, it lost all its er BRs have made the decision to find a retirement Michelin stars. We’re not going back. fall May 6, 2026. Except for emailing Dick to set up our lunch, I community of some sort. I recall both Butch Nun“He dreamed a woman was having an emernally and Tony Munera did so recently. If any haven’t received any emails nor photos from anygency right outside our condo unit, and in the others have done so, I would appreciate hearing best VMI tradition and classic Tom behavior, he one except Karen Walborn, who notified me regarding Bill Rodier’s interment service at Arling- from you. It’s not surprising since our average age struggled out of bed to go help her when his walker slipped out from under him, and he fell,” said ton National Cemetery. An interesting fact is that is fast approaching 85.
1964
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Class Notes
Class of 1964: Millie and Bill McVey with Eric and Shelley Boehling (their daughter and son-in-law) in Maryland in August 2025. Don Jones: “Tomorrow (May 15), I will be on post at the awards ceremony and will be presenting the New Market Legacy Award to the winner. This will be the first time in several years that a member of the class has presented the award. I would hope we can continue to do this into the future. I will be reaching out to our BRs in Virginia later this year asking for others who are willing to assist in this effort.” I have spoken on the phone to a couple of brother rats: Dick Atkinson, W.J. Kitchen, Butch Nunnally, and Tom Sebrell. Andy Collier and I exchange emails nearly daily, but limited to the latest geopolitical goings-on. No exchanges of a personal nature. On April 18, we hosted a party at our home to celebrate Sherrel’s 80th birthday and our 61st wedding anniversary. Thirty-three people showed up to eat our food and drink our booze. Just kidding. It was a great day for Sherrel. The only other item of note is Sherrel and I have attended several functions of our local alumni chapter. Alumni were included from the Class of 1954 to as recent as 2021. Attendance has been excellent.
1965
C. Lou Siegel
I will have turned 83 by the time you get this Alumni Review. I am on the short side of it, as I write this note and send it to the Alumni
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Association—by 15 days. I should not dwell on it too much as I am lucky to be here at all. Thanks to Augusta Cardiology and the doctor who attends to me (his name is Dr. Lewis Siegel—yes, from Ukraine a couple of generations ago), I’m here. I consider this a sign. My three grandchildren are terrific. Their parents, so-so. My oldest son lives in the Tahoe, California, area. Our youngest son and family are with us in Nelson County, Virginia. Here are notes from others still on the right side of the turf. Jack Mountcastle: “If you have some space in the current class update, perhaps you could mention that May 7, I will have the pleasure of presenting a $1,000 scholarship to each of four young men and women who are graduating from Richmond-area high schools on behalf of the Richmond Area Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America. All four of them have participated in their high school’s Junior ROTC program and are committed to pursuing commissions through ROTC programs at the colleges they will attend in the fall. I’m very glad that one of them is going to VMI, where he plans to participate in Naval ROTC with a Marine Corps commission as his goal.” Bill Cather: “I have made trips to both Phoenix and Tampa to see baseball spring training games, where the most expensive ticket is $50. I spend about 2 hours a day working in my yard with my many flower beds (an addiction). My 15-yearold granddaughter, Virginia, is in her 10th year of ballet, so I have attended many of her performances. She will be taking advanced classes with the Boston Ballet this summer. At the end of February, I took part in my 40th Scout Camporee and was so proud to see how well the girl troops do in the competitions. My last grandson, who is 17, is finally working on his Eagle project, and I am looking forward to speaking at his ceremony soon. And an additional comment: Does anyone still keep a pair of ‘running’ shoes? As I was getting ready for church, I pulled my black loafers out of the shoebox that I only wear to church and funerals and have only buffed them out a couple of times in about 7 years.” Liam Murphy: (It’s a late spring in Virginia but chilly, and here’s a winter note from Liam): “The last time I fell, it was with the assistance of some unnoticed ice. While it wasn’t deep, it was bloody enough to be noticeable. Even so, no broken bones.” Liam, Carr Hyatt (next note) fell in one of our cold spells. He was out at his barn tending to some sheep that he has. Carr Hyatt: “Hello, Lou: I went to a meeting at VMI with my family when my granddaughter was applying to VMI. I was very much impressed with
our new superintendent, Lt. Gen. Furness ’87. I sense he is very much looking after the best interests and reputation of the Institute. My granddaughter was accepted, but after much thought, she did not feel VMI was where she wanted to be. Her brother is a sophomore in school and is a good football player with good grades and wants to go to VMI. He weighs in at 280 pounds. Hope you’re doing well, and Joanie is dealing with her illness as best as possible.
Class of 1965: Norm Radford at Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico in February 2026.
Class of 1965: John Mac Marshall with his 1984 Alfa Romeo Spider in Dallas, Texas.
Class Notes She is in our prayer list, as well as you.” Norm Radford: “Lou, attached is a February 2026 photo of me at the Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico. I have been blessed with fairly good health and still enjoy skiing. However, at age 82, I limit myself to groomed blue runs. I ski at Taos because lift tickets are free to skiers 80 and older. I do attempt to follow your admonition: ‘Don’t fall.’ I have promised my wife that anything close to a serious injury will end my skiing days.” Barry Walker: “OK, Lou, I’ll give something maybe interesting, maybe not. In my third year with the FBI, I went to the Russian language school in Monterey, California. After the year’s long course, I was transferred to San Francisco. I spent 11 years in SF doing Soviet counterintelligence work. I used Russian quite often. In 1983, I was transferred to Washington, D.C., for a completely different job that didn’t require Russian. I didn’t speak, read, or write any Russian for the next 42 years. Last year, I decided to take it up again to keep my mind working. I forgot how hard the Russian language is. Nevertheless, I have kept studying and also use an app which I use to videochat with native Russians.” Larry Umberger: “Hey, Lou! As it can be said, we are ‘doing better than we deserve,’ but our age is showing up in that Fi and I are both doing physical therapy, and my sciatic nerve causes pain in my left leg. On the other side of things, our grandson, Branner, just finished a 2-year degree in metalworking and will start another 2-year degree in welding in August. Our granddaughter will begin her senior year in high school in August. They are both in a very positive and loving relationship with us. Our son and grandson have moved a firewood rack nearer to the house and filled it with wood for this winter. Our son continues to work on commercial and institutional fire alarm systems for Johnson Controls. Our daughter-in-law has been through treatment for multiple myeloma, including lots of chemotherapy and a stem cell procedure, and her most recent test showed no cancer marker. We are very thankful for this because the doctors had said that there is no hope of being cancer-free. Our church is under construction on a 4,400-square-foot children’s Sunday school space, and since I still maintain a PE license, I was able to do the small amount of civil engineering work required for the project. For our 60th wedding anniversary, Fi and I are planning to go to the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum in Kentucky. There are also plans for a George Wythe High School 65th reunion in August. The years really add up! We are very grateful for all that God has done for us! Desiring the best for all of you in these days!” Bruce Herczogh: “Hello to all from the
western edge of South Carolina. We are in the middle of a drought. Our lake is about 10 feet below full pool, and the Georgia red clay is cracking like an egg. Jan and I now have a great-granddaughter, 4 months old. Gee! I just can’t wait until she starts crawling or walking so my 83-year-old body can try to catch her. Best to you all!” Dave Kiger: “I just returned to Forest, Virginia, for the summer months from Paradise Hilton Head Island. We went to visit my grandchildren in upper New York, and on the way back in the airport, I tripped over my own feet and fell on my leg. Bruised muscle, cut hand, injured foot, but otherwise, I survived. Didn’t break anything, and we will heal eventually. I’m thinking about taking PT for walking and balance for old people since I stumble a lot anyway. I’ll be seeing my roommate from VMI, Richard Waters, June 5 for just a dinner and to meet his wife and him to meet my wife. Dick and I try to get together at least once a year, and since football season didn’t work out for us last year and basketball season wasn’t a good time, we decided to just meet in Richmond and have dinner together. Looking forward to seeing him and his wife.” Johnny Mac Marshall: “Good afternoon, Lou. Well, it has been a hectic, but fun, springtime for Jamie and me. Starting in late February, Jamie got a promotion in her company to staff attorney. As with most promotions, it has her doing a lot of what she was doing before but a lot of new tasks, as well. The good news is that her salary has improved, so I am one step closer to retirement. January and February were very busy months for me in terms of visiting judge work and traveling all over North and East Texas. Of course, the cases are often ones that the local judge just doesn’t want to fool with, so I get the fun ones (like famous football players’ divorces). “In March, as I have done for several decades, I went to Poland for my regular teaching in Lublin. It was the largest class that I have ever had, and their English was so good that I didn’t have to work too hard in the lectures. The demonstration jury trial focused on what happens when a child asks AI for advice in handling bullies. Ironically, a trial in the United States on basically the same issues happened while the course was going on. This time, Jamie was able to join me for the last week of the course, which makes it all even more special for me. “We came home to piles of emails that needed to be sorted, and I hit the road again in April for court hearings almost immediately. The really fun finish to this scramble, though, was with my 1984 Alfa Romeo Spider turning 200,000
miles last weekend just as we pulled into our driveway. Needless to say, I have enjoyed every one of those miles and am pushing on toward 250,000. I miss Moody Hall. It is where I spent the night before Jamie and I got married in the Memorial Garden. That said, time moves us on, hopefully to better times, and we are looking forward to the next reunion. Jamie joins me in wishing all the BRs a happy and healthy summer holiday.” Pete Norton: “Hi, Lou. Sorry for not providing input to class notes for a long time. But let me run this lame excuse by you first: After graduating, I had wonderful opportunities serving in the Army and working for a U.S. global petrochemical company, a large family/privately owned company, and a global French petrochemical company ... and, in the end, running my own business until last year. This entailed 14 relocations to eight different states (11 different cities), two foreign countries (for 6 years), buying and selling seven homes, and renting six apartments/homes, not counting our final move to the Eastern Shore of Maryland. My wife (Chloe—married shortly after graduation) and I both benefited from being brought up in career military families, so I guess we could be considered fully prepared for such moves before this all started—and we were. This has been a wonderful experience for us, meeting new people and learning new cultures, customs, and business practices. Unfortunately, it did not help me learn how to improve my time management skills or, more importantly, my multi-tasking abilities ... and therefore my failure to contribute to any class notes ... something you have mastered and demonstrated in your dedicated and voluntary commitment of your time to taking up this valued service for our class communicating and managing this service. So, forgive my negligence. Going forward, I will focus on improvement and my contributions. Best Regards, Pete.” And (from Lou) thank you all for your personal notes.
1966
Nick Hoskot
It is New Market Day 2026, and\, as you may notice, this edition of our ’66 class notes is extremely light on input from you, the brother rats 2026-Issue 3
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60th Reunion
VMI Class of 1966
Class Notes
Class Notes of 1966 ... although it covers the momentous occurrence of our 60th—yes, 60th—Reunion! So now that the dust has settled and you have had time to reflect on the reunion and the intervening months from April through mid-August, drop me a line and share what you have been doing. Our next reunion should occur sometime in the fall months of 2031. (There were several of us who, for a variety of reasons, were unable to participate, but all who I have spoken with are vowing to show up in 2031 for number 65, the good Lord willing and the creeks don’t rise. As one of the “excused” absentees for No. 60, I definitely want to be in Lexington for No. 65. Kudos to Paul and Joanne Robblee, along with their energetic assistants, who organized the events, and definitely to Frank Louthan for a very meaningful religious service and program
1967
Lonnie Jan Abernathy
Col. Charles Pace ’927 was my English teacher at Hargrave Military Academy and a strong taskmaster. The skills he taught me are extremely useful, as age has dulled many basics. We are all close in age in years, so I suspect you understand. Among us are several with strong energy who still go to an office every day or strap on their boots Class of 1966: Cliff Martin and Walt Walsh to head out for productive work. Alas, you have at the 60th Reunion in April 2026.—Photo my respect. But I am still upright and reasonably courtesy VMI Alumni Agencies. coherent, so here are some notable notes for this last quarter. Wayne Marshall has purchased an RV and will cruise the East Coast down to Florida soon. He and Roy, his service dog, have outfitted the vehicle to accommodate both. He expects to visit BRs and longtime friends along the way. Bert Burckard keeps many of us up to date on political happenings in Virginia. He also regularly shares his U.S. stamp history commemorative issues with many by email. My favorite was National Beer Day. John Chiles also shares his frequent newspaper editorial submissions with the class. Last February, I got an email from John Forsyth saying the squirrels were taking over his bird feeder, and he was calling in reinforcements. I was not sure what that meant, so I asked him if he needed suggestions. The temperature was 25 that day, so maybe he was just looking for some enClass of 1966: Jay Wegrzyn and Woody tertainment or exciting extermination ideas. ApSadler with Jay’s grandson, Thaddeus WeClass of 1966: Marshall Taylor, Clark parently, no firearms or explosives were to be ingrzyn ’22, at his promotion ceremony to Reifsnider, and Randy Urmston lead an Old volved in his neighborhood. captain in the U.S. Army after graduating Yell for the class during the 60th Reunion in from medical school at Virginia Tech. April 2026. John Walters ’66 asked me for Mike Hall’s address to send his condolences to Anne at Mike’s passing. He also said, “Regarding the memorializing brother rats who have ‘usual joys’ of aging, I (inadvertently, passed away. for me) lucked out 41 years ago by marYou all should have received emails rying 15 years below my age, and she courtesy of Norma Robinson, which is from a family of medical professioncontained a link to allow you to view als. She has pretty much kept me on the many of the highlights of our time since straight, but she is a great cook, so the matriculation. Thank you so much, Nor‘narrow’ part is a little iffy. But it is less ma! humiliating than rat year, when I was reThe next opportunity to update all of peatedly told to turn sideways to the sun us in the Alumni Review will include and stick my tongue out. The result was the period from now (mid-May) until a shadow that looked like a zipper.” mid-August of this year, ’26. Your notes Dennis and Sandra Telzrow wrote and photographs should get to me by from the South Pacific: “We were Aug. 13, 2026. Class of 1966: Dave Pinkus, Rob Ritchie, and Craig “Ranger Frog” scheduled to do circumvention of TasAll My Best to Each of You, Caldwell. mania, but weather prevented us from Nick 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes degradation process. Mobility is the critical issue going to the west coast. We learned about prison... legs and neuro control going in wrong direcers transported to Tasmania and saw the local anition. We still do gym two to three times a week ... mals: Wombats, wallabies, etc.” always delusional! Can tell things not the same, When I shared some of my sordid medical hisas I tried to change a flat tire last week while we tory and all of the various doctors who have kept were making a run. Damn screws! Shouldn’t be me going, Barrett Graham suggested I give up difficult, but Liep found a good younger Samardriving and do my riding around inside a cement itan who helped me complete the task. Liep dotruck. I mentioned I once had a World War II ing much better, tho’ damn pollen dump up here Dodge Power Wagon weapons carrier but always this month is giving her serious fits. Truly, a green wanted a white half-track for highway safety and coating on everything. missed my M60 A1 tank from Army days. Did do a [Caribbean] cruise mental health esChuck Keblusek added: “From my experience Class of 1967: Richard Lynch and Wharton cape a few weeks back. Our reward for making in anatomy class, especially in the dissection lab, Ramsey at their Medical College of Virginia it through winter! Ship and services were the reyou have donated your body to science!” 50th reunion in Richmond, Virginia, in April wards, not the stops. And will avoid the Barbados Jane Adams (Mrs. Larry Adams): “I actually 2026. airport forever! And my bag-dragging prowess believed you were seeing a phrenologist! I wasn’t is definitely fading! On some pubsurprised! At our age, we see all lic conveyances, I also had youngkinds of doctors. Anything goes to er folks offer me their seats. Sad! keep us going.” I must be looking really pathetic! Bob Flynn: “I just assumed you Might try another escape later in knew what you were talking about, summer. TBD ...” and I didn’t!” Bill Brent, Jim Phlegar, and DixThe final word is from Joan Aberie Walker recently changed to new nathy, who corrected my rambling email addresses. This is a note to relist: “You see a dentist, ophthalmind me when your email and admologist, optometrist, retinologist, dress changes. quantum neurologist, audiologist, Tom Farley, J.B. Farley’s son, nephrologist, naturopath, holistic says he also plans to make a memonutritionist, and chiropractor. You do rial display of his father’s VMI time not see a phrenologist—studying the and asked the best way to get a small bumps on your skull is my job.” (I VMI flag. We discovered that both should learn by now that Joan knows the VMI bookstore and museum stuff.) “A kidney doctor is a nephrolhave them. ogist and not a phrenologist.” I do Terry Moore’s frequent request not think ’67 has any BR nephroloClass of 1967: Barrett Graham with Kira Brenaman ’26 and Connor for our cadet room facts brought this Wolfe ’26, both members of the VMI Pipe Band, at the Loch Norman gists, or the other one, either. Highland Games in Huntersville, North Carolina, in April 2026. reply from Jay Topping: “Looking Jim Wilson: “Doing tolerably ... over the class info sheet, my 3rd normal state of the biocomponent Class year room was 311, not 307. Also, degree in 1969 was from East Tennessee State University, BS history/political science.” Phil Gioia asked how he could replace his lost ring. Jostens has a service for that, and the information is on the VMI alumni website. Fred and Judy Smith: “We had a visit with our two Richmond grandkids, 7 and 3, and will be going to surprise Kalliope at school as mystery readers, where we will get to read a children’s book on their level. Judy gets to pick the book because they wouldn’t enjoy my selection, a chemistry story. When we returned from Florida the first week of March, we rested for a week and then left March 10, traveling to Iceland, hoping to see the Northern Lights and beautiful waterfalls frozen in the Class of 1967: Attending a memorial service for Hunter Taylor in Richmond, Virginia, are (from winter. A beautiful place to visit, and yes, we did left) Lane Kelly; John Holt; Rick Irby; Breeze Taylor Johnston, Hunter’s daughter; Bo Traywick; Jim see the Northern Lights, and they were a beautiful Rogers; Tom Gillette; Dave Neel; Bill Brent; Bob Randolph; and John Goode. sight and wonder to see from Iceland. We toured
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Class Notes many waterfalls and hot springs, even getting to experience the warm waters at one of the warm springs. It was very soothing, but I had to duck my head down periodically to get warm, as it was really cold. We are closing down our RV and putting it up for sale and will do suitcase travel for a while, as it is getting harder to lug around heavy suitcases. We will keep it up until we can’t. In the meantime, safe travels to all my brother rats.” I thought you would like to see a sample of what Joan orders for BR services, as she noted in a note to Hunter Taylor’s daughter: “On behalf of the brother rats of the VMI Class of 1967, I have ordered a large fan-shaped arrangement in a vase in VMI colors with red, white, and yellow ribbon around the base. This can be moved from the memorial service to the reception, if you choose to do so. VMI colors are shown boldly to celebrate the life of anyone we lose from ranks.” Elizabeth “Breeze” Johnston, Hunter Taylor’s daughter, responded: “Thank you so much for the beautiful flower arrangement and heartwarming note that you sent on behalf of the VMI Class of ’67 for our dad’s memorial service. The flowers were just beautiful, and they had a perfect place on the table at the reception, surrounded by photos of our dad. They are now with my mother outside the door to her new apartment, and she talks about how beautiful they are every time she comes and goes. The note I will keep and cherish forever and scan into my permanent files. My sisters and I were very moved by the strong showing of brother rats in attendance to honor our father. Knowing that others who really knew him admired and loved him is a great comfort to us at such a sad time. We miss him so much. Thank you again for showing such strong love and support for our dad and for us.” J.I. Orrison: “Max and Terryann Toch visited Brenda and me over the weekend of April 18. Max was in town to attend a scholarship luncheon with me at the University of North Georgia. We are the funders of two scholarships at UNG to support the corps and STEM students. The scholarship presented this weekend was the Brothers in Arms Scholarship. This scholarship is to support the common mission and bond between senior military colleges.” Over time, I have accumulated a number of BR stories, but this one from Tom Gillette will be new to most of us. Tom writes: “Jan, at your request, I am providing the basic details of my travels from VMI at the end of our 2nd Class year to graduation in 1970. I could rattle on indefinitely about those 3 years away from VMI before I returned and the voluminous correspondence I had with General Shell ’931 during that time, but it is probably not what anyone would want to spend
Class of 1967: Visiting with Mike and Lisa Ingelido during their trip from Colorado to the East Coast are (front row, from left) Moe Harman, Carole Green, Pam Tomlinson, Lisa, Bootsie Rogers, (standing) Beegie Harman, David Fickenscher, Jimmy Rogers, Tommy Tomlinson, and Mike.
Class of 1967: J.B. and Carol Farley at a seafood restaurant in Ventura, California, in July 2025. their time on. When I completed our 2nd Class year in June 1966, General Shell suggested that I take a sabbatical with the idea that I would not return to VMI for our 1st Class year. At which point, I spent both semesters in summer school at VMI, living in barracks. With Vietnam in full swing and a mandatory draft in place, I had two options: Go to another school to finish my senior year or enlist in the service. I chose the second option and volunteered for the Army. I was enlisted in November 1966 and was sent to Fort Bragg for basic training and Fort Ord, California, for advanced infantry training. After that, I went to OCS at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, and was commissioned into the Army Corps of Engineers as a second lieutenant in October 1967. One more year of stateside duty and then off to Vietnam in 1968 for 12 months. Upon returning to the U.S. in September 1969, I called General Shell’s office and asked for an appointment to see him and was granted a meeting. That took place in his office in September 1969, at which time we had a very nice conversation, and he allowed that I could return to VMI on condition that I live uptown and commute to
class in civilian clothes. Wow, throw me into the briar patch! I had saved all of my uniforms and fully expected I would go back into the Corps if General Shell granted me readmission. I didn’t ask why, but I have always assumed that serving as an officer in Vietnam was the primary consideration. Since that fall semester for 1969 had already begun, I returned in January 1970 and spent two semesters living in town and graduated in December 1970.” Years ago, we learned that a visit to Lexington, watching a parade, and talking to cadets brings our spirits up to a new level of optimism for the future of the country my grandchildren, and yours, will inherit. In April, Joan and I made the journey up the valley and took a number of cadets for SRC in Lexington. Mike Bagnulo and Ann Plentl (Will Plentl’s widow) joined us for the meal with cadets and enjoyed it as much as we did. Notable cadets included soccer players Riley Boucher ’26, a record-setting scorer; her rat, Natalie Centurione ’29, who will be her replacement in the fall; and the rat soccer goalkeeper, Maren Ryberg ’29, who set a record for saving the most shots on goal in SOCON last season. (We watched their games live on ESPN.) Several 1sts joined us while eyeing their imminent USMC service. Mike Bagnulo really enjoyed telling stories with those boys, and he, too, found his spirit had lifted after the visit. Two of the cadets we invited to SRC weeks earlier were unable to attend. Morgan Fraser ’27 had a track meet—she is a high jumper—and Kira Brennaman ’26 is a drummer, both tenor and bass in the Pipe Band, and had a scheduled competition at the Highland Games at Loch Norman, North Carolina. She won first place in tenor drums. She is barely as big as the bass drum she plays, as you can see from the photo with Barrett 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes Graham in this issue. Barrett has been an official and patron at the games for years. She is a French major and is engaged to last year’s drum major, who is in USAF flight school. They are planning a wedding next April. Our trip to VMI this time was to represent our class for sponsoring the 1967 Scholarship. John Chiles also asked me to represent the scholarship provided by his mother for his father and uncle. We divided our responsibilities and then found that many dozens of cadets were not in attendance, as they had other duties and were excused. Neither of the two ’67 cadets were at our assigned table, so two other cadets whose representatives were apparently not in attendance joined our table. Carole Green attended, sitting with the cadet who benefited from the Bob and Carole Green Scholarship. They sat with Tom Richardson and Betty. With Ann Plentl and Mike Bagnulo also present, ’67 was well represented. We had Xzavious Smith ’27 from Henrico, Virginia, and Noah Dailey ’29 sat at the ’67 scholarship table. Noah said he came to VMI from New Hampshire because he lost a bet with his mom. Barrett Graham: “Until recently, all of North Carolina has been under an outdoor burning ban because of a drought, and now we’re getting a little rain, so I’m here in my office awaiting a break in today’s ‘monsoon’ before I head out on some errands. Sharyne and I are pretty much tied to home right now because she’s the primary caregiver for her 100-year-old mother who lives in Hopewell, Virginia, and will not be moved from her home. Sharyne commutes (4-and-a-half hours each way) from here in Newport to Hopewell, where she stays with her mom for 10-14 days before coming home for 4 days. She’s in her 16th month of this, and as far as I’m concerned, she’s deserving of canonization. I’m slowly winding down my law practice but still crisscrossing North Carolina on weekends, conducting classes on behalf of North Carolina’s Office of the State Fire Marshal. All this makes running our household single-handedly an interesting exercise. P.S. I caught up with the two drummers from VMI at Loch Norman—good kids. They marched with The Citadel’s pipe band for the massed bands presentations, and we talked with The Citadel cadets a bit and discovered that they’re very much aware of what Richmond is trying to do to VMI. They’re very understanding and thankful that at least their state government is leaving them pretty much alone. P.P.S. I’ve already got our reunion on my calendar for next year.” Rob Gates: “Beverly and I made our fourth annual trip to Missouri so I could present a history paper. I still haven’t figured out why they’re
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interested in papers on the history of the Navy in Dahlgren, Virginia, and the Potomac River. This trip will be memorable but not for the best reason. We decided to come home on a more northerly route than usual, and the first stop was Springfield, Illinois. Overnight, the temperature dropped from the mid-50s to a windchill of 4 or 5 degrees. It also snowed! When we were getting ready to pack the car to go to Dayton, I slipped on the ice- and snow-covered parking lot and broke my elbow. Needless to say, we cut the trip short. I had surgery, and it’s healing nicely. I’m doing rehab, and things are going well. We plan to go to West Virginia for our anniversary in September and do the things we planned but didn’t get to do. I know one thing. If we go back next year, we won’t go north again!” Mort and Ginny Barnwell: “We’ve enjoyed your emails that have kept us in touch with our ’67 brother rats. It’s amazing how time has flown. I guess it’s a symptom of old age that I can remember events 60 or more years ago but not what happened yesterday. We read your list of maladies in a recent email. I share several with you. Like a lot of BRs, 2025 wasn’t kind health-wise. Ginny and I met 60 years ago this September at a Southern Sem mixer. We’re coming up on our 58th wedding anniversary in August after three children, eight grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. One of the older granddaughters graduated high school during the Covid epidemic, wanted to travel, and enlisted in the Air Force. She’s been a loadmaster for C-17s for over 5 years now. Her sister took advantage of virtual classes, finished high school a year early, is graduating from a local college next week, and is continuing on a Ph.D. program in chemistry at Kent State. Our son (an Auburn grad) and his wife (a Miami, Florida, grad) have the three youngest children, ages 6-11. All three have provisional appointments to VMI. I’m hoping to salvage at least one Keydet from the group. We think it’s really great what you’re doing with this effort for the flower fund and the communications to the class. We did visit my old roommate and wife, Ted and Carol Mervosh, a couple of years ago, but the eyes and old age have kept us close to home since then.” Chuck and Mya Krebs: “Our health challenges continue. I fell and injured my back recently, which then led to back surgery. Fortunately, my sister came and helped us, and then our son stepped in. We are planning to move back to Virginia as soon as it is practical to be closer to family.” I wind down these notes with a suggestion from Bert Burckard about a new book covering the exhaustive efforts near the end of Vietnam to
occupy, or reoccupy, Fire Base Ripcord in great detail. The book is 297 pages. “The End of the Rope” by James R. Smither encompasses hundreds of interviews and is visceral to me. Bert’s personal diary is quoted many times. Bert: “It’s a fair account of how and why we lost that last battle in 1970. Full disclosure: I was interviewed for the first three chapters of this book because I commanded the first (failed) assault and was heavily involved in the second (failed) assault. But by the time of the final (failed) attempt to establish Ripcord, my command time had ended. Two other VMI guys also figure in this story: Joe Smith ’68 (first captain) and Bob Leibecke ’69. BR Bert.” We lost seven brother rats in the first few months of this year. As the notes are being closed out, we received news that Jim Fromm passed. Take care and set your goal to be present for our 60th Reunion April 11–14, 2027! The planning is already in place. Hope to see us all there! —Jan (and Joan)
1968
Tom Hickey
The February 2026 mini reunion was a great event due to the efforts of Dave O’Connor and Dean Kershaw. A total of 43 signed up, but some had to drop out because of weather or personal reasons. We had dinner at a local Mexican restaurant Friday night, where John Byrd entertained us; attended a basketball game Saturday afternoon; and had a dinner Saturday night at which the commandant of cadets, Col. Lawrence Havird ’90, spoke. Our next 5-year reunion will be in late April or early May 2028. We’ll start preparations this time next year. Next, here are the three accounts I received on Lewis White’s funeral—one from his daughter, Annie; one from John VanLandingham; and one from Steve Strickler. Annie wrote: “A celebration of life for Lewis was held Feb. 28 in Virginia Beach with a number of alums in attendance and a number of VMI stories being told and many more have been in touch to express condolences and share stories. We’ve loved the stories and hearing from and seeing so many friends. “The following is my account of those with VMI connections who were in attendance: Bill Boyer and spouse Leila, Bill Carter, Betty Jean Clarke (widow of Hunter Clarke ’58), David
Class Notes “I am still practicing law full-time in Virginia Gehr, Bogart Holland, Mal Kerley ’71, Kevin And a breakfast and gathering at their unit in the Knotts ’77 and spouse Diane, Don Lynch, Mike retirement complex the next morning, with more Beach. I feel blessed to have my mind and basic physical capacities still intact. Lynda and I spend Meads ’94, Stephen Strickler, and John Van- stories.” Steve Strickler (Virginia Beach, Virginia): “On most of our free time traveling to Charlottesville Landingham.” John VanLandingham (Eugene, Oregon): my 80th birthday, I attended Lewis White’s fu- and San Diego, visiting our two daughters and the “The following brother rats were present for the neral service. There, honoring the Fox, were John grandkids.” Now, the “birthday” updates by our brother rats. memorial for Lewis White Feb. 28, 2026: Bill VanLandingham (who came all the way from John Thrift (Boynton Beach, Florida) wrote Oregon), Don Lynch, Kevin Henry, Bogie HolBoyer, Kevin Henry, Dave Gehr, Don Lynch, Bill Carter, Steve Strickler, and Bogie Hol- land, and Bill Boyer. Several of us had an oppor- that the birthday emails from BRs were much appreciated. “Probably received 25-30 emails, tunity to say a few words about Fox and his laidland. In the Friends gathering/Quaker tradition, many with tales of barracks life and some e-cards. back demeanor and attitude. there is no set program; anyone who wishes to “I am in touch regularly with Gerald Jones and Seems 80 is good, at least so far!” speak may do so. From our class, Boyer, StrickKrita Kritakara (Bangkok, Thailand): “I just was able to spend time with Linda and Gerald at ler, and I spoke. Lewis’ daughter, Annie, orgathe marriage of their older daughter in Boston sev- turned 80 years young but not that well. Fell down nized everything, including a live Zoom conin the morning getting out of bed but did a paranection, which my wife watched from Oregon. eral years ago. Gerald has remained in Hingham, I think you could watch now. Annie spoke. Most Massachusetts, for years and is retired. Also re- chute landing fall taught at Fort Benning so only of the attendees were non-VMI folks, people who ceived a nice card from Jim and Julianne Sterling hurt my arms from the broken furniture. Had to be in ICU for a while and do rehab on my legs. Startknew Lewis growing up in Suffolk, Virginia, or and hope to talk with Jim soon. ing to walk normally now. Hopefully, in 2 months, knew him as neighbors in Virginia Beach or as I can go to Japan courtesy of my son and family. fellow civil engineers. Please let me know if any BRs can visit Thailand “One Suffolk story was about how, at age 8, ’cause my house is always open to them.” Lewis tried to do what the older boys were doing Smokey Beirne (Salem, Virginia): “We moved with a rope swing and instead fell and broke both to a retirement community in Roanoke County arms; one was less badly broken, and after that west of Salem, Virginia. Just trying to get all the cast was removed, Lewis insisted on playing on boxes unpacked.” a similar apparatus and broke that arm again. His Byron Nettrour (Fairfax, Virginia): “The mini mother spanked him on the way to the hospital for reunion held Feb. 13–15 was good for me to get another cast. reacquainted with the brother rats who were able “Two of the best speakers were his caregivers, to attend. We owe much gratitude to Dean and Mr. Lewis and a woman who said Lewis loved Dave for all their efforts in coordinating lodging, her to sing to him, which she did for us. dinners, and events to make a wonderful, fun“I told how Lewis was a poor student at VMI— filled weekend. I am looking forward to the 2028 later determined to be ADHD—who rarely studreunion to see more of our brother rats. Now that ied and spent most weeknights roaming from winter is almost over, I am looking for the warmer room to room; you would be studying at your weather of summer. To all, be safe until we meet desk and suddenly realize that Lewis was standagain.” ing next to you. Silently. About how Lewis would, Class of 1968: John Byrd at Muchacho After Lou Holtz, football coach, died, Tomwhen we were 3rds, tell Ron Cowardin to pack Alegre in Lexington, Virginia, Feb. 13, 2026. my Norment (Williamsburg, Virginia) recalled his bag and be ready at 3 a.m. to escape barracks his experiences with Holtz: “In and leave VMI together. Ron high school, we started fall footwould set his alarm and be ready, ball practice about 2 weeks bewhile Lewis would sleep through fore W&M so the W&M coachthe night, never intending to leave. es would come over to the high He did this to Ron several times. school and coach us as a warmup I also talked about Lewis’ love act. I had been a guard and lineof being contrary, with a twinkle backer for 4 years but decided my in his eye, pretending not to care, senior year I was sick of blocking when he was the most caring perand was going to become a runson I knew. ning back. First day, our coach, “There was a reception after the who had been an All-American service, which Boyer and wife tackle from Iowa, said, ‘Linemen Leila and I and others attended. to the left for equipment, backs to And that night, the Boyers and I the right for equipment (I always and Mary Pelham (Lewis’ wife and leaned to the right!), so I got in the Ring Figure date) and Annie and Class of 1968: Skip and Marta St. John-Anders, Ned and Cornelia Harris, and line with the running backs. The Lewis’ sister and brother and their Jack and Elaine Falzone in Prescott, Arizona, in April 2026. coach saw me in that line, came spouses went out to a restaurant. 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes over and smacked me upside the head, and said, ‘Get your @#$ over there with the linemen.’ Being inherently disobedient even before I got to VMI, I responded, ‘No, sir, I am going to be a running back this year.’ He said, ‘You will be really sorry you said that!’ “So, the first day of active practice, I got with the running backs, and there was Lou Holtz to coach us. He told me he had heard about me from our coach and said, ‘I like your spirit.’ He worked very hard with me and spent extra after-practice time with me learning fundamentals. I was a boy who could run pretty fast and was 5’10” and 190. “First game of the season, our high school coach told me I would start on defense but would sit on offense. Great. As fortune would have it, the starting halfback got hurt, and he had to put me in. The first time they gave me the ball, I ran for a touchdown. I delighted in seeing the coach throw his hat on the ground. “Holtz stayed in touch with me until he left for NC State. After my senior year, he tried to recruit me to come to W&M. I told him no way— I was staying in the town I grew up in! “Interesting fact about a small high school football team in little Williamsburg. Our QB got a 5-year scholarship to Virginia Tech. The other running back got a full ride to Alabama. The full back got a 5-year ride to Virginia Tech and ended up playing for the Kansas City Chiefs. Then there was me. First person in my family to go to college and just tried to survive at VMI. God bless Lou Holtz. He knew talent when he saw it!” Lew Yeouze (Peachtree City, Georgia): “I look forward to soon being 79. Joyce and I are well. We are dealing with several age-related health issues. Sorry that they caused us to miss the February mini reunion. We’ve already made reservations for the Nov. 14 VMI versus The Citadel game in Lexington. Wayne Burton, George Buzzard, and I try to get together, along with our spouses, for several VMI football games. “I try to keep up with VMI news. Bill Braggs hosted Wednesday night Zoom calls help. There are usually a dozen or so on the call. Dave Gehr is a regular, and he seems well plugged into the internal and external happenings. “Paul Quillen, Buzz Sprinkle, and I get together periodically for lunch somewhere in NW Georgia. Paul missed his calling. He should have been a professional restaurant critic. “Family and friends are Joyce’s and my happy priorities. Life is good! We stay busy with our three adult children’s families and the six grandchildren they have blessed us with. Life really is good, and we are blessed.” Barry Archer (Carriere, Mississippi): “Wanda
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and I are doing well. Had our 3-year anniversary last Valentine’s Day when we got hitched. We spend most of our time here in our country home in Pearl River County, Mississippi, near one of my sons and his family. They live on a 38-acre ranch less than 2 miles away that has about every barnyard animal you can think of, to also include a camel! Then, about once a month, we slide on over to Fairhope, Alabama, to our other home so that my baby can visit with all of her kin in the area. Other than that and church activities with our friends, our life would probably seem fairly boring to most. “Wanda is a big gardener, and her yard boy (me) is always close at hand for digging holes and mixing garden goodies in with the dirt before planting trees and such. I’m actually doing the same thing my dear mother had me do for her from my tender age of 10 until she passed. Nothing big planned for the coming months other than a military reunion in Destin, Florida, with some of my SF Army buddies from Vietnam. Looking forward to seeing everyone at our VMI Class of 1968 class reunion in 2 years. Life has been good to me.” Bryan Barton (Oakton, Virginia): “Mary Ann and I enjoyed the mini reunion Dave O’Connor and Dean Kershaw hosted. The turnout was good, and the company was even better. John Byrd entertained us with his ventriloquist performance. It’s hard to believe we’re just a couple of years away from our 60th!” Mike Gompf (North Chesterfield, Virginia): “Turning 80 is surreal, but happy that I’ve made it this far. Not much happening at the Gompf homestead. We just replaced the HVAC system and water heater. I am still working at the Independence Golf Club as a marshal and starter. The benefits are free golf, even though I don’t play that much because of a bad back, Afib, and low blood pressure. If it weren’t for doctor visits, I don’t think I would have any social life at all.” Guy Wilson (Matthews, North Carolina): “Busy 12 months. Sold our house down in Charleston, South Carolina, last year, and now our house in Charlotte, North Carolina, is for sale. We have moved into upscale senior living at Windsor Run, an Erickson community. I got a pacemaker last year when my low heart rate caused serious dizziness, serious memory issues, and a few fainting spells. All that is resolved now, making Gloria happy! I am 100% disabled thanks to Agent Orange in Vietnam, so the VA takes care of most health issues. Have had mutating chronic myelogenous leukemia for 18 years, but Levine Cancer Center sees me quarterly, and it’s still under control. I do make most Charlotte Chapter alumni luncheons.” Doug Schnabel (Brentwood, Tennessee): “The
big 80 in a few days. Mom, who lived to be 92, said she did not feel old until she turned 80, so not looking forward to that. Walking each day in the morning, watching the grands play sports, cooking, and very little housework. Like my TJ Jeeps and am looking forward to getting back out four-wheeling some this summer, hopefully.” Phil Lanier (Lakeway, Texas): “Becky and I are doing well here in the outskirts of Austin. At this point in life, we find pleasure sitting on the back porch, critiquing golfers’ swings as they pass by. Unfortunately, most of them are better than mine. Our son and family are still here. Daughter and son-in-law are in Santa Barbara, California. Sonin-law owns an interesting business called SuiteHop. They broker tickets for suites, or partial suites, for athletic events, concerts, etc., nationwide.” John Byrd (North Chesterfield, Virginia): “We are so happy that all three of our children and our two granddaughters live close to us, and we see them often. I enjoy singing in the Midlothian Men’s Chorus, and I continue to perform as a ventriloquist. I get together with some VMI guys most Friday nights. I really enjoyed the mini ’68 reunion on Valentine’s weekend and hope to attend similar events in the future.” Tom Ricketts (Cary, North Carolina): “Charlotte and I are enjoying reasonably good health and celebrating 57 years of marriage. Granddaughters are lights in our lives. Oldest attends the University of South Carolina. Cary is between Northern Virginia and USC, so we get some extra visit time. The youngest will start at
Class of 1968: Jimmy Burg, Ned Harris, and Skip Anders in Prescott, Arizona, April 27, 2026. Not pictured is Jack Falzone.
Class Notes George Mason University this fall. “We visit the Emerald Isle, North Carolina, beach below the Outer Banks every summer. Charlotte and I truly love the getaways to a less crowded, more serene beach. We host the family each summer there and work on our tans. Spend time keeping up with Vietnam buddies on Facebook and reminiscing about classmates I saw over there; Barry Archer on his way to I Corp and Jack Andrews at the 90th Replacement pass through.” Terry Emerson (Winter Park, Florida): “Lois and I celebrated my 80th (you wake up one day, look in the mirror, and you are 80!) in Paris. We did everything and nothing during the week. The birthday dinner at Closerie des Lilas was amazing. My sister, Barbara (who turned 70 in March), and her husband, Greg, joined us for the week! “Later, while enjoying a French 75 and a glass of champagne at Harry’s New York Cocktail Bar, we found the VMI spider prominently displayed on the doorway wall. Those days seem like only yesterday, but then you realize it was almost 60 years ago. “We are still enjoying our snowbird lifestyle with trips to Europe sprinkled in between. Carpe diem, brother rats; if you don’t do it when you get to it, you might never get to it to do it again.” Wes Padgett: “I still live in Montgomery, Alabama, with three dogs after my wife Ruth’s (my Ring Figure date) passing over 5 years ago from COVID. It is hard to believe it has been that long. I stay busy with church activities, some golf, and a little travel. My eldest child and only daughter, Catherine, and my only granddaughter, Luci, and I took a pre-Christmas cruise up the Rhine (Amsterdam, Netherlands, to Basel, Switzerland) called the Christmas Market Cruise. We had a great time! I returned to Montgomery late Christmas Eve. Still concerned about Catherine’s safety, as she works at Sea World in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Never thought I’d have to worry about my marine mammal trainer getting missiles and drones shot at her! My youngest son, Michael, and his wife, Victoria, presented me with another grandson in July. I’m counting on at least one of his two boys to carry on the VMI tradition. I’ll have to live to be 102 to see the youngest graduate! It will be worth it! My other two sons are doing great. Eric is a stock trader, and one of his two sons is graduating from college in May. My eldest son, Matthew, is an executive chef and business owner selling his Black Garlic 196©️ worldwide. We’re all still hanging in there.” Skip Anders (Mesa, Arizona): “Jack and Elaine Falzone, Ned and Cornelia Harris, and Skip and Marta Anders shared a night out at the Longhorn Steakhouse in Mesa May 4. Our last outing together for a while, as the Falzones will be returning
to Crystal Lake, Illinois, May 11, and the Harrises will be returning to Ipswich, Massachusetts, in mid-June. Skip and Ned will probably have a couple of shooting range dates before they leave for Massachusetts. “Two weeks previously, Ned, Jack, and Skip visited with Jim Burg at his care facility in Prescott, Arizona. Jim is in good health, considering his injuries (several thousand ab crunches per day), and in great spirits. When we arrived, he was reading Brother Rat Bob MacPherson’s book on humanitarian operations in Kosovo. Jim walks daily but spends most of his waking day in a wheelchair. He does not leave the facility except for medical appointments at the VA. He has no relatives living close by, and his business/financial affairs are being handled by his son-in-law, who lives in Texas. He was understandably appreciative of our visit and would probably appreciate a call or card or a visit from a brother rat. Ned Harris has the address and phone numbers for the facility in Prescott.” Tayo Leduc: “Not much happens in sleepy Hiawassee, Georgia, so I was surprised to get a call from Paul Quillen today. He and several other BRs are getting together for lunch at the Longhorn in Dalton, Georgia, this Wednesday. They also get together on a Zoom call Wednesday night at 8 p.m. I have been asked to join in and look forward to talking with them.” Rick Eades (Ridgeland, Mississippi): “Not really much doing since I last wrote. I am still running and cycling. By turning 80, I am now in another age group at running road races. Hopefully the fields are not too full in that age bracket, and I might have a chance to place. Finished an 80-mile ride May 2. We call that ‘bike your age’ ride. I plan to ride the Birmingham Bicycle Club’s 100-miler the second Saturday in September. It is held in Columbiana, Alabama, and is one hilly ride. My granddaughter finished her freshman year at University of South Alabama and made the dean’s list. She is in the mechanical engineering curriculum and is enjoying it. Hope it stays that way. The family is doing well, sort of one of those times when everything calms down. Hopefully not before a big storm of problems.”
1969
Walter Judd
Greetings, BRs and Friends of the Class of 1969, It is springtime in Eastern Virginia after a long,
cold winter. Two bills submitted by members of the House of Delegates of the Virginia General Assembly have caused all kinds of activity, as alumni and friends rallied to the aid of VMI. The superintendent, Lt. Gen. Furness ’87, has been a whirlwind of activity speaking to alumni groups all over the Commonwealth. Our BRs have been right there doing their parts in working with their elected officials to tamp down the threats to VMI and our methods of educating future leaders of America. Bob Heely, Glenn White, Jim Baker, Webb Hatch, and John Robins gathered for an adult beverage at Skinny’s house in Portsmouth Feb. 15 and then attended a meeting with the supe at the Norfolk Yacht Club. Others attended a breakfast meeting the next morning at the Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg. Tom Morris, Drew Brantley, and Bob Flowers attended the breakfast meeting. WIP Priest said he attended later that day a meeting in Irvington. Boy, that supe guy gets around! From various BRs, I received different takes on our status. Webb thought supe felt he had adversaries in the Senate from legislators who were upset by the BOV’s move to change our supe. Others thought this was a reaction from the new GA to reassert their thoughts on the leadership of Virginia’s colleges and universities, as UVA and VMI were singled out. Whatever the reasons, the call to assist VMI was loud and clear. BRs from all over the U.S. checked with me to understand what was going on. With the help from a lot of people, the threats were diminished for the time being. It was gratifying to see so many people in so many areas come to the aid of VMI. Thank you for all your efforts. At the Richmond-area VMI alumni club Feb. 18, several ’69 BRs heard the supe tell of all that he was seeing with his visits with members of the General Assembly. Bunny Paulette, Bruce Gregory, John Ishon, John Sebrell, Bruce Noel, and Rich Daub were there. Fred Downey, John Sebrell, Rich Daub, Bruce Noel, and Mike Santoro attended the VMI reception for the members of the GA in Richmond’s state library the next night, Feb. 19. Although Glenn White and I had signed up, we did not make it out on the wet, foggy, and windy night. In late April, at my request, Mike Santoro sent me a shortcut to a site showing the bills and their ending status for this year’s session of the General Assembly: lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/ HB1377. From what we can tell, one bill never left the House committee after being amended and changed by the Senate. As you are likely aware, bills start with both House and Senate and, after a period of time, are passed from one 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes to the other for reconciliation. One of our bills did not survive that process. The other bill, however, did get through the process and was passed to the new governor for her analysis. She and her staff removed much of the “whereas statements” and simplified the words to say the VMI Board of Visitors is required to report to the GA in a year how VMI is doing toward fixing the items identified in an earlier “study” done several years ago. I will not go into all the fuss that earlier study brought, except to say many of the things the study mentioned were fixed or have been worked on for several years. On Feb. 23, seven of us met for a “Charlie lunch” in Richmond. Mike Santoro brought Charlie Bryan and met Bruce Gregory, Bruce Noel, John Sebrell, Lee Swats, and me at the restaurant. We analyzed everything from the status of the VMI bills to VMI baseball to which professors were the best during our time at VMI. Several described how many schools were involved in their finishing at VMI, which launched the “what did you do each summer” discussion. There was not just a little laughter as each man told his story. As usual, Charlie brought a little something to stir the conversation. This time it was a CD of our 25th Reunion activities (filmed by V.J. Petrella) and played on Charlie’s CD player. Those guys (and their ladies) all looked so young! I remember our gathering in the motel parking lot in East Lexington that afternoon and partying out of several BRs’ ground-floor motel rooms. In early March, Paul Mascot in Texas received word that Rick Morris had suddenly died. I spoke with Rick’s son, Todd, the following week and learned that Rick had been diabetic and died of an unusual episode where his blood chemistry went haywire. I later sat with Brig. Gen. Jack Mountcastle ’65, the man who led our 50th Reunion Vietnam War seminar, at a Virginia War Memorial event and learned that Jack, also an Army historian, had been Rick’s boss for a short time at Fort Leavenworth. Here is Rick’s obit. “Dr. Rodler Frederick ‘Rick’ Morris Sr. passed away peacefully at his home the morning of March 4, 2026, at the age of 78. Rick was born in 1947 in Elizabeth, New Jersey, to Frederick Todd ‘Todd’ Morris and Sannie Forest. He grew up there surrounded by a large extended family. He attended Delbarton School in Morristown, New Jersey, a Benedictine preparatory school, where he excelled both academically and athletically. Rick often credited his experience at Delbarton as formative in shaping the man he would become. After graduating high school, Rick attended Virginia Military Institute, where he was commissioned as an officer in the United States
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Army in 1969 during the height of the Vietnam War. During that time, he lost several close friends and classmates in the conflict, an experience that profoundly shaped his worldview and inspired a lifelong commitment to supporting American soldiers through his later professional work. Rick went on to earn both a Master of Arts and a Ph.D. in modern European history from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, completing a highly selective doctoral program. In 1975, Rick married Lynne McCurdy (Wettig), and together, they had two sons. In 2002, he married Deborah Nelson (Morris), who remained his loving partner for the rest of his life. Rick enjoyed a long and
Class of 1969: Dick Jeter with Elizabeth and Tom Jones in Georgia in December 2025.
distinguished career that included serving as an associate professor at Hillsdale College in Michigan during the 1980s. He later worked at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, as command historian at the Combined Arms Center and as program manager and deputy director for the Center for Army Lessons Learned. Over time, he became widely respected as an expert in the field of knowledge management. His dedication to continuous learning led him to earn numerous professional certifications, including a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and a Master Certificate in Business Analysis from Villanova University, in addition to many others. In 2015, Rick co-founded Morris, Nelson, and Associates, LLC, and served as its president. Through this work, he devoted himself to combating human trafficking and supporting efforts such as ReHope and the Justice and Dignity Center of Kansas City, helping impact many lives. Despite his professional accomplishments, Rick’s greatest joy was his family. He was a lifelong and enthusiastic reader and instilled a love of books in his children and grandchildren. In his later years, he especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s activities, including dance lessons, sports practices, birthday parties, and family gatherings. Rick also enjoyed traveling in recent years, visiting destinations including Key West, Florida; Arkansas; New Jersey; and many others, often blending business and leisure. Rick was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Deborah Morris; his children, Todd Morris, Rodler ‘Rod’ Morris Jr., Cristopher Hawkins (KaCee), Kira Haynes (Terry), and Brion Hawkins; his grandchildren, Adrienne, Avery, Landon, Reed, Jaden, Kahlibur, Kingsley, Nova, Luna, Farley, Oliver, Layla, Carter, Aniya, and Jada; his brother, Kevin Morris (Colleen); and
Class of 1969: Walt Judd, Tom Morris, Bob Flowers, Don Bogard, Bob Watts, John Sebrell, Bruce Gregory, and John Ishon in Williamsburg, Virginia, in November 2025.
Class Notes many cousins, nieces, and nephews throughout the United States. Visitation will be from 2–3 p.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A celebration of life service will begin at 3 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Justice & Dignity Center, 3114 Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64110, or ReHope, P.O. Box 88, Harrisonville, MO 64701.” I learned later that Rick and George Budd had roomed together in graduate school at UNC after VMI, as they were both pursuing their doctorates. I was lucky to talk with Rick in recent times and learn of his many interests. After his passing, I spoke with his son, Todd, and heard of his many exploits as a father and businessman. Rick was truly a go-getter and used his history background to do good in the present. On March 21, I assisted Mike Santoro at the Virginia War Memorial’s all-day Salute to Service 2026, which honored the warriors who fought in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. I met VMI graduates right and left (from 2020 to early 1960s) and was honored to help the classes of ’76 and ’88 present wreaths to their BRs who died in the action in the desert. Bob Flowers joined Binnie Peay ’62 and John Jumper ’66 in a panel discussion of the action. I also met many West Point retirees, as several of the event speakers were graduates, and the West Point alumni glee club performed a patriotic concert at lunchtime. Rumor has it the Salute to Service 2027 will focus on the individuals who served in the Vietnam War activities. Stay tuned for it. Jim Chapman texted me from the VMI at W&M baseball game March 31. He, Bunny Paulette, and Bruce Gregory were there watching the game together. They also saw Drew Brantley at the game. The VMI baseball team continued its excellent play in winning 10–4. BRs Lou Sidney and Mike Santoro visited Lexington April 18 for the annual Foundation Scholarship Banquet allowing cadets to meet their donors for academic scholarships. Although our sponsored cadet did not attend, Lou and his wife, Tanya, did meet several other impressive cadets at the PX before the luncheon and at the banquet. Mike sat with his cadet, a young woman from Illinois in Navy ROTC hoping to fly someday. Also at his table were Bryan and Mary Ann Barton; Brandon Bissell ’98, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer; and another scholarship cadet. Lou said, “The superintendent gave a very nice speech telling us all how much our support meant to the Corps. This was nice to hear, but the speech that impressed me most was the one given by the 1st Classman who found that, after her
2nd Class year, she could not afford to come back. However, due to the financial support provided by the alumni, she did come back and will finish her cadetship. When she finished speaking, she got a standing ovation (the only one of the day). As usual, after this visit to the Institute, my spirits were lifted. I also feel honored to be able to provide some small measure of support to the Corps.” That was a great summary, Lou. Thanks. In news just released near the end of April, VMI announced that Brig. Gen. Dallas Clark ’99 accepted the position of VMI Alumni Agencies CEO and will begin June 8. Dallas has been the VMI deputy superintendent for finance and support for several years and was recently the interim superintendent during the search for the new superintendent. He is a true friend and a capable, qualified man to accept this new job. I laugh when I see him at various VMI functions and tell him I carry his business card in my wallet as my “get out of jail” card whenever I am in Rockbridge County. I will now have to update my card with a newer version as he takes on new responsibilities. On Tuesday, April 28, I met Bob Flowers, Jim Chapman, Drew Brantley, and several others from other classes in Williamsburg for our seasonal senior alumni luncheon. Over chicken salad, crab cakes, and burgers, we talked and laughed a bunch. Drew was in rare form again, telling us how he got the excellent military career of Carl Strock ’70 underway and how he got selected to go fetch his unit’s live alligator from a small town in Alabama, where the critter had escaped from his ride to North Carolina. If it is good for your soul to laugh out loud, I am good for a while! I also introduced Bob to his granddyke, if there is such a term. Bob’s rat dyke finished VMI and had his own young rat, Jay Jones ’75 of Yorktown, as time passed. Jay, also called Turbo, is a golfer friend and a retired AF fighter jet back seater and contractor. Several of our BRs have lost their wives in the past few months. Bruce Sharp lost Nancy this year, and Mike LaMar posted on social media that his wife, Ruthie, had passed on. “My beloved Ruthie, my dearest wife of 57 years, passed away early morning April 24 from her long battle with vascular dementia stemming from a massive stroke suffered 32 years ago. She was absolutely the bravest woman I have ever known, and I will miss her terribly.” Bruce also sent word that his grandson will enter VMI this fall. It has come to my attention that I do not speak for all our brother rats, as I do not know where everyone is. Help me find BRs! If you have not seen a name you remember in these notes, check with me and give me an address or phone number for
that person. I will do what I can to find that BR and get some recent news. Thanks. I mentioned before several of us are looking into having a “we are turning 80” party in 2027. Bruce Gregory and John Ishon are helping me seek a place and time. Yet before we go too far, I would like to hear from you if you are interested in and would support such a party. We have considered many ideas and so far are thinking about meeting for a catered dinner at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond. There is ample parking, and there is always an interesting array of displays for all to see. Mike Santoro, Bob Flowers, Charlie Bryan, Joe Lynch, and other BRs have given or are giving a great deal of time to the foundation running the memorial. Bunny Paulette and some of his friends from high school have invested time and money in the infrastructure of the venue. Bunny’s firm even built the newest building in the complex. Give me a shout and tell me your reactions to such an idea and such a venue for our class function. Our next gathering at a reunion in Lexington is in 2029, a long way off. Yet, if there is no real demand for a gathering before then, we will agree to place this scheme into the “good ideas that never gained full acceptance” basket. I thought you might like to know: 57 BRs made a donation to VMI in the past few months. If you want to join that loyal bunch, send your gifts to the VMI Alumni Agencies and help present-day cadets pay their bills. You never know, you might be helping a relative of a BR! Yours in the Spirit, Walt
1970
Steve Talley
Hello, Brother Rats (or as BR Tom Morehead calls us, “Brethren Rodentia”), Family, and Friends of the VMI Class of 1970, Recently, the 1970 VMI family buried two of its members. On May 14, Susie Gillispie and her sons, James L. and Jonathan R. Gillespie; daughter, Emma-Lee Marie Hunter; brother, Richard Gillespie; sisters, Barbara Dennis and Pat Fredette; and grandchildren, Theodore Patrick Gillespie, Jolene Marie Gillespie, and Scarlett Elizabeth Hunter, buried their patriarch, our BR James Paul “Jim” Gillespie, who died in Fredericksburg April 9 of this year after a valiant, 5-year fight with cancer and, in recent years, dementia. In a eulogy to 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes his father, Jonathan described some attributes he saw in Jim that he was working to mirror in his own life: Patience, having a calming presence, and confidence. I am happy to report that BRs Bob Candido, Ned Haley, Bob Patrick, Carl Strock, Russ Marshall, and Al Johnson joined me at Jim’s funeral. Not long before his death, Jim went to a hospice facility in Fredericksburg, where he was dubbed the “gentle giant” and became wildly popular with the staff. He was a big guy, for sure, coming in at around 6’9.” Hospice had to extend his bed a couple of feet to accommodate that big frame. Susie told me a short time after his death that “my darling Jim went with the angels to his heavenly home yesterday. He will be so missed. VMI was a very important part of his life. His oncologist called him a ‘rock star.’ His hospice room was decorated with family photographs and his favorite VMI print. He does not always know my family and me, but he is always up for talking about VMI and plays basketball with his caregivers.” I met a hospice volunteer at the funeral, who, after learning about Jim’s strong bond with VMI, found pictures from our 50th Reunion and brought copies for Jim to see. He said it made Jim so happy to see them. Just after Jim went into hospice, I sent him a video of six VMI cadets giving him an Old Yell at a recent basketball game in Lexington. Susie told me he sure got a kick out of that. I spoke to Susie soon after Jim’s death and learned that she had made a hospice friend at the facility, and on the afternoon we spoke, she was going to her new friend’s farm to help groom her horses. Hug your hospice provider today. At that same basketball game, the 1st Class president, who had learned about Jim from his roommate, dashed to the floor and led the Corps in an Old Yell for Jim for all to hear—for an alumnus they did not know. Talk about strong bonds! I like to put stories like this in the notes to codify them in perpetuity so that all can see what a grand place VMI is today. On April 23 of this year, our BR Lenny McClure and his sons, Michael Craig Williams and Robert Brandon McClure, and his grandson, Robert Gray McClure, laid to rest wife, mother, and grandmother Brenda Lee McClure in Sanford, Florida. BR Tom Love, who also lives in Florida and who lost his wife, Sheryl, March 1, 2023, attended Brenda’s funeral. It’s never too late to send condolences to grieving families. Call or text me for contact information for Susie and Lenny. See the included picture of Lenny and Tom. Guess which one is Tom. I had lunch in Lexington recently with Frank “Chip” Humphries, who lives in Kentucky. We had a most wonderful time reminiscing
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and getting to know one another better. Frank often goes to Lexington to attend to the graves of his wife, Debra, and his son, Frank III. We talked about his loss, and he says he thinks about them every day. He told me stories about them, and a notable one about how he met Debra—on a blind date with his roommate, Justin “Blick” Blickensderfer, or Lefty, as he was also called by some (I will let him explain that one). Lefty was in the front seat with Deborah and Chip in the back seat with his date. An electric current sparked between Chip and Deborah, which grew exponentially. Before you know it, they were dating and eventually
married. After that date, Lefty took great delight in barracks when enough guys were around to hear him yell to his buddy Chips, “Humphreys, you stole my girlfriend, you’re @#$%!&#.” We took a short walk to where Chip had discovered a memorial stone honoring our legendary boxing coach, Clark King (Hon). The stone’s inscription reads, “I shall pass through this world but once; any good therefore that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.” Wise words coming from a man who once said, I was told, that he wasn’t
Class of 1970: Members of the U.S. Army Honor Guard present a U.S. flag to Jim Gillespie’s wife, Susie, at Jim’s funeral in Fredericksburg, Virginia, May 14, 2026.
Class of 1970: Members of a U.S. Army honor guard fold the U.S. flag at Jim Gillespie’s funeral in Fredericksburg, Virginia, May 14, 2026.
Class of 1970: Attending Jim Gillespie’s funeral in Fredericksburg, Virginia, May 14, 2026, are (front row, from left) Steve Talley, Emma-Lee Hunter, Susie Gillespie, Bob Candido, Ned Haley, Bob Patrick, (back row) Carl Strock, James L. Gillespie, Jonathan Gillespie, Russ Marshall, and Al Johnson.
Class Notes showing graphic pictures of his feet dehappy if he didn’t see blood in boxing tached from his shredded legs, and how class once a day. I bet that will evoke in the ensuing months of painful recovstories about your own experience in ery, he appealed to his wife, then his girlhis boxing class. That’s where our defriend, Kim, to leave him, as he would not parted BR John R. Hill earned the rebe able to provide for her. She had other spect of his classmates by volunteering ideas and did not do that, and today, they to take on a much larger, more experihave four children. He went on to show enced upperclass instructor and getting us pictures of the many amputees and his butt whipped by that guy. If you disfigured men, women, and children he want to know more about Dr. King’s has met through the years. He said, starkremarkable life, contact me (or do your ly enough, that when the shooting stops own search) for his obituary. in a war, the maiming and killing, which By the time you read these notes, the is “disproportionate and indiscriminate,” Institute will have celebrated another Class of 1970: Diehl Jones’ 308 GTS Ferrari in Southern Pines, goes on, with around 15,000–20,000 inNew Market Day (May 15), starting in North Carolina, April 26, 2026. nocent people killed or injured annually. the morning with the reading by cadets Officials estimate that there are 80–110 of the names of the New Market cadets and all alums who died on the field of honor, and he caught in the Chesapeake Bay some years ago. million active landmines still buried or scattered the customary Memorial Parade after that, then af- He told me about his experience attending a recent across roughly 70 countries worldwide. These externoon commissioning exercises. On graduation town hall meeting conducted by our superinten- plosive devices contaminate millions of hectares, dent, Lt. Gen. Furness ’87, who, in recent months, often the best agricultural land in a given country. day, May 17, the Institute will have graduated 216 men and 40 women at the May 17 commence- has traveled the Commonwealth and conduct- Despite clearance efforts, millions of additional ment ceremonies, and 134 are commissioning: ed many sessions, explaining to alums and oth- mines remain in stockpiles, particularly in coun26 headed into the Navy, 15 into the Marines, 11 ers VMI’s strategy for dealing with the upcoming tries not parties to the Ottawa Treaty, an internainto the Air Force, one into the Coast Guard, and examination. He is convinced, as I am, that Gen. tional attempt at regulating these horrific devices. the big winner, as usual, 81 into the Army. That’s Furness is the right man for the job at the right After his speech, Ken told me that the loss of his legs in that horrific tragedy was a clarifying moabout a 52% commissioning rate. Because VMI time. He has made a considerable effort to rally the VMI family and get people to write letters and ment in his life, and after getting over the shock of is good at what it does, those grads who are not commissioned will likely be employed quickly make comments to the General Assembly and oth- it, he knew what he was going to do the rest of his er prominent persons in decision-making capaci- life. “It crystallized my vision of what I believe I or move on to higher education opportunities. So it goes at our alma mater. Virginia Gov. Abigail ties, always reminding folks to speak with respect was put on this Earth to do.” He trained himself to Spanberger will have spoken to the VMI Class of and act as the ladies and gentlemen VMI taught us live with a simple creed: “Feelings are meaning2026, their families, and friends. This will have to be. Shrill, accusatory voices never work. They less without action.” And he’s doing it; every day been a momentous occasion indeed, given the on- only divide. A major part of the superintendent’s he’s breathing, he works on getting rid of those going controversy VMI is embroiled in and the message to the decision-makers is that he invites land mines. Dr. Rutherford served as a Peace Corps volunbills introduced in the state legislature proposing the examination and knows that VMI will pass the test if the process is fair and balanced. I hope Gov. teer in Mauritania, a UNHCR emergency refugee to examine us. One bill established an independent, outside advisory task force to conduct that Spanberger has set the stage for that to be the case. coordinator in Senegal, and a humanitarian emerOn April 22, my son, Henry, and I joined BR gency relief officer in northern Kenya and Somaexamination. It made it to Gov. Spanberger’s lia. He was awarded a Fulbright Research and Phil Jornlin and his son, John, in Lexington for desk, where she surprised many by amending it to eliminate the requirement for an outside task dinner at The Palms restaurant. After dinner, we Scholar Fellowship and traveled to Vietnam and force. Instead, she handed that job over to the went to Marshall Hall and toured the Hall of Val- Amman, Jordan, in 2005, where he was appointor, where we admired the military citations and ed to the faculty of the department of political sciVMI Board of Visitors, expressing her belief that ence at the University of Jordan and conducted medals of our brother rats and other VMI veterthe BOV is the most qualified body to do the exans on display there. Then it was on to Gillis The- research on Jordan’s leadership role in protecting amination. ater to hear a lecture from Phil’s friend and John’s the rights and dignity of people with disabilities And finally, May 18, a gaggle of BRs will have met at Mike’s All American Grill in NOVA to tell much-admired JMU teacher, Dr. Ken Rutherford, in the Arab world. He has delivered presentations in nearly 40 countries, published in numerous aclies, make fun of one another, or at least the guys professor of political science. “On Dec. 16, 1993, who did not show up, and celebrate our own grad- while working for the International Rescue Com- ademic and policy journals, and somehow manmittee in Somalia, Rutherford’s vehicle struck a aged to publish five books, including “America’s uation so many years ago. I spoke to BR Mike Snead recently about VMI’s landmine, injuring him severely. After a medical Buried History: Landmines in the Civil War.” predicament and the course of things. I will note evacuation during which he nearly bled to death, Who knew? He cofounded the Survivor Corps, that when I open Mike’s contact information, I see one leg was amputated to save his life, and the formerly the Landmine Survivors Network, creatsecond one was amputated several years later.” ed by and for survivors to help victims of war. The a profile picture of him in a boat holding a monThere were 200, maybe 300, cadets in Gillis for Survivor Corps, a recognized leader of the Interstrous fish out in front of him. It’s so massive that his talk, many bound for commissioning, and national Campaign to Ban Landmines, received I concluded it was Photoshopped. I called him out on it, but no, it’s real: A 50-pound rockfish (striper) you could have heard a pin drop. He started by the 1997 Nobel Peace Prize. Dr. Rutherford is a 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes true purveyor of peace and healing, committed to his mission and clear-minded about how to accomplish it. I hope that the cadets in Gillis that day will carry his message of hope forward in their careers as civilian leaders and military officers. I heard from Diehl Jones, who is an aficionado and collector of some really hot cars, including a Ferrari 308 GTS. He told me that the Southern Pines Episcopal Day School down his way recently honored Italy. What better way to do that than to fire up the Pininfarina-designed, targa-topped 308, sporting a 2.9-liter V8 engine with Weber carburetors, producing around 237–252 hp, shift the fivespeed gated manual transmission into high gear, and hit 60 mph in 6 seconds on the freeway? I bet the students liked that car! “I enjoyed interacting and answering their questions, the most popular being, ‘How fast does it go?’” Damn fast, I’d say. A.C. Arnn is up next. He recently attended his 60th reunion of the Hargrave Military Academy class of 1966, which included Russ Quay, Richard Cabiness, Wilbur Huntley, Ned Perrow, and Bob Copty, as well as himself! Brother rats before they were brother rats. This guy can’t stop working, but it’s all for a good cause, that being to restore water in western North Carolina after the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in the Big Bend area of the Florida Gulf Coast as a Category 4 storm late in the evening of Sept. 26, 2024, and destroyed everything in its path all the way up to North Carolina. And he finds time to assist with Purple Heart Homes. He will get a break soon because, in October, he and Beth are going on a 3-week Mediterranean cruise to celebrate 50 years together. A.C. reminded me that he departed Saigon, Vietnam, in late April 1975 in Operation Frequent Wind, a massive helicopter evacuation that removed the last Americans from the U.S. Embassy after what he called “a wonderful adventure,” and was dismayed when that news went unnoticed recently by the press, as did any mention of those who served there. A.C. will be joining a bunch of other brother rats in Nags Head in late October for more fun and games at what has become an annual mainstay brother rat gaggle. Recently, I asked you folks about VMI legacy families in our class. Here’s a report of what I have so far. I know there are other ones out there besides these. Mike Snead’s report: James Cleland Snead ’906, “Uncle Cle”; George Murrell Snead ’916, my fraternal grandfather, “Grandgeorge”; George Murrell Snead Jr. ’43, his dad; George Murrell Snead III, Mike himself; Edwin Archer Snead II, “Neddie,” Mike’s cousin and our BR; and James Cleland Snead ’72, Mike’s younger brother. Mike’s dad was a brigadier general in the Army
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in 1970. “At our graduation ceremony, he commissioned brother rats in our class who were headed into the Army upon graduation. Ted Durvin still reminds me that my dad sent him to Vietnam. I had my Great-Uncle Cle and my grandfather and many relatives attend our graduation in Lexington. A very special time for each member of our family.” Mike attended the VMI Legacy Day event April 11 of this year with four of his grandsons (ages 1114). It was a great event run completely by members of the Corps. “I believe I was the oldest alumnus there and the only one from our class. The day exposed the kids to VMI’s academic facilities and laboratories, physical training facilities, and marching down to a meal with cadets in Crozet Hall. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in exposing kids to VMI in a fun way.” VMI is thriving and moving forward. The Snead legacy continues. Waite Rawls’ report: Father Sol W. Rawls Jr. ’40, one of the founders of the Institute Society. Taz Taylor’s report: Grandfather, A. Brooke Taylor Sr. ’895; father, A. Brooke Taylor Jr. ’933; brother, A. Brooke Taylor III ’61; brother, Marshall C. Taylor ’66; Taz Taylor; nephew, M. Carney Taylor Jr. ’92; nephew, Selden Taylor ’00; and great-nephew, Marshall C. Taylor III ’26. Brigitte Bott’s report: James Arthur “Art” Bott ’936, father of our BR William “Billy” Bott; Brigitte’s and Billy’s sons, Charles Briddell Bott ’96 and James Wescott Bott ’99; and grandson, Cadet Connor Bott ’26; and a soon-to-matriculate grandson, Wescott Bott from Anchorage, Alaska. The Bott legacy continues. Cameron Seay’s report: William Throckmorton Sherrard ’849, John Hyde Cameron ’857, George Hugh Cameron ’864, Frances Jordan Cameron ’886, Joseph Grigg Seay ’892, George Cameron Seay ’929, Joseph Bolling Seay ’932, William Marion Seay ’936, Joseph Holmes Sherrard IV ’937, Joseph X. Bell ’938, Robert Singleton Sherrard ’44, Joseph Holmes Sherrard V ’64, Donald Cameron Seay, Charles Addison Brown ’73, and last but not least, Robert Singleton Sherrard ’77. Hell’s bells. Cameron may just have the most extensive VMI legacy family in the Whole Damn Corps. There are plenty of other VMI ’70 legacy families who have not reported in. I’ll keep after them. In early April, Stix Chandler and his wife, Nancy, went to Bowman, South Carolina, to help BR Dave Schmidt repair the roof on Dave’s shed. When Stix and Nancy arrived, Dave was already on the roof. “I heard a loud commotion, and the ground shook! Then I heard moaning and groaning outside, so I ran out and saw Dave curled up
on the ground. I called 911, and the Bowman Fire Department arrived in 5 minutes.” In short order, the rescue team had poor Dave in a helicopter bound for the Columbia Hospital Trauma Center, to which Stix and Nancy scurried, noting that Dave was being attended to by ER staff, including “some nice-looking South Carolina nurses!” Scans showed eight broken ribs and a punctured lung. He had sustained no head injuries, thanks, Stix said, to a super thick skull. He is recovering well. Sympathetic comments flooded in from brother rats. Gary Weishaar: “Well, I guess the roof repairs are on hold. Remember, it takes longer for old people to heal!” Mike Snead: “Scuba Dave appears to be developing a habit of presenting himself without clothing around women,” captured by the astute Stix Chandler as he laughed his head off. “Very disturbing,” Mike continued, “We’ll have to keep an eye on him going forward.” (Scuba Dave is a name Dave acquired at last October’s Nags Head BR gathering, having to do with a Halloween costume party fueled by high-test adult beverages, at which Dave wore a diving mask, flippers, and a speedo. I have pictorial evidence of this event that is not for the faint of heart and thus will only be displayed when I smell a blackmail opportunity.) And Gary Weishaar’s parting shot, the coup d’etat: “I’m glad to know you made it through surgery, and you are feeling better. Some are saying this was just a stealth operation to add more length to your wiener [A wiener is a particularly important tool used in rafter framing. They come in different lengths. I looked it up.], get a hair transplant, and cure your bad breath. Is this true? Hold off the roof repairs for a day or so!” Dave reports that the most common comment was “only a dumb @#$ gets on a roof at 77.” And finally, the annual Meeting of the Members of the VMI Alumni Association was May 2 of this year. You may remember that our BR Sol Waite “Soda” Rawls III was running for an at-large director’s seat, and he threatened all of you with bodily harm (specifically an @#$ kicking) if you did not vote for him. He authorized me to carry out the punishment. Fearing the rage of a crazed class agent, many BRs did vote for him, and I just found out today that Waite was indeed elected. The VMI Alumni Association is far better off with him aboard. I heard from Liz Grasty, who queried, “Can Warren still cast a ballot? He continues to contribute to VMI, Keydets, and others.” He does do those things, and he will always be in our hearts and minds, and sure, he can vote. Now, as Warren used to say, “In the spirit.” That is all for now. Over and out. Now get back to work.
VMI Class of 1971 55th Reunion
Class Notes
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Class Notes
1971
David Ellington
Before the dust has settled on our recent 55th Reunion, I would like to thank two groups for their involvement with the event. The first are all the BRs with their significant others who made the trip to Lexington and were involved in the planning, execution, and participation in the event, and next, the folks at the VMI Alumni Agencies who were extremely swift, conscientious, and flexible in their responses to our questions and solving problems when they arose. I have heard from many BRs who commented over and over on how helpful and gracious the Alumni Agencies team was in addressing any problems that arose, leading in almost all cases to resolution of the issues. So, ’71 sends a huge thank you to the Alumni Agencies for a job well done. To our BRs, thank you for coming and participating so actively in all the events. We had a good turnout, but the total attendance was blunted by some ongoing or newly discovered medical problems that limited the participation of many. Please know you were missed, and our hearts are with you in your battles with the trials and travails of three quarters of a century of existence! While we missed seeing many of our BRs, it is and was exciting to reconnect with some of our BRs who, while not graduating, have a strong belief in how the VMI experience influenced their life. One of these folks was Tom Scott, who contacted me asking for information on how to contact his rat roommates. Tom matriculated from Chesapeake and joined Lew Rea and Al Davis as rat roomies. Tom left at the end of our first year with plans to return second semester of our 3rd Class year. Uncle Sam had other ideas, i.e., induction into the Army, which resulted in Tom enlisting in the Air Force and assignment to Barksdale AFB for the next 2 years. There, he met and married his wife, Deb. Tom worked several jobs while attending school until he finally found his place at the Surry Nuclear Plant across the James River from Jamestown. This was the start of a 48year career in the commercial nuclear power industry, where he rose from a radiation protection and chemistry technician to a project manager. In that position, he provided equipment, materials, and labor at 15 commercial reactors. This included no less than 19 moves over the life of his work. He and Deb now live in Salisbury, North
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Carolina, midway between Charlotte and Kernersville, North Carolina, where his two children and grandchildren live. Tom now spends his days gardening, kayaking, canoeing, jogging, and all things beach. Tom delivered a very heartfelt summation of his experience at VMI at our class supper. His conclusion: “I only spent two semesters with my brother rats, but the experience at the Institute helped increase my self-discipline and ability to dedicate myself to a team and mission. VMI was one of the early influences on me that helped me have such a successful career and life.” Brother Rat Scott, welcome back on the team. A special shoutout to who, I think, came the farthest to attend the reunion. John and JoAnn Ashman came all the way from Southern California to win the accolade. An extra plus is the fact that JoAnn provided pictures from the reunion to document our fun. I suspect that when we add up total miles traveled to all our reunions through all the years that the Ashmans may well be the champions. From Idaho to the Pacific islands, BR Will Wickun stays on the move. The “Halls of Montezuma and the Shores of Tripoli” are alive in the Marine Corps Hymn, but most Americans alive today would have difficulty reconstructing the times and reasons for their mention. But the fighting on the Pacific island of Iwo Jima and the image of the Marines on the crest of Mount Suribachi raising the American flag still brings chills to all Americans—Marines, in particular. After several attempts thwarted repeatedly by administrative issues, Will finally checked the box of every Marine’s to-do list and joined legions of fellow soldiers in body and spirit when he visited Iwo Jima’s black sand beaches and unfurled our flag with Mount Suribachi in the background. Mission accomplished! Will then progressed on to Peleliu, site of another bloody Marine encounter and victory led by VMI alumnus Lewis B. “Chesty” Puller ’921 in World War II. After returning from the South Pacific, he is in training for his last, and the event’s last, RATPOD race in the Rocky Mountains of Montana. This is a 127-mile ultramarathon mountain bike race to raise money for Camp Make a Dream, a camp for children with cancer. Will has faithfully participated for the last several years, which is pretty amazing for someone our age! From the Air Force component of our class, Skull and B.J. Turner seem to be drinking from the Fountain of Youth, as neither of them seems to age. They continue to live just north of Charlotte near their son and are doing well. Two BRs who did a great deal of work in the background on the reunion for which they
garnered little to no recognition are the two Johns, John Brayshaw and John “Corn” Biggs. John Brayshaw was instrumental in the planning of the program about the Adams Center. The Center was named after BR John Adams, who was with us only 1 year but who, during his lifetime, was incredibly generous to the Institute. Part of his extensive generosity was setting up the Adams ’71 Center for Military History and Strategic Analysis, “dedicated to Cold War military history and the connections between the Cold War and contemporary national security affairs.” Those who were able to attend the “tour and talk” in the center—during which the breadth and depth of the center’s offerings were showcased—could only be jealous that this was not available during our time at the Institute. At the same time, I know they were thankful for BR Adams’ generosity and vision in getting this going and for BR Brayshaw’s work in setting up the program. Another aspect which has not come completely to fruition is a challenge coin commemorating the Adams Center. “Corn” Biggs has designed the coin and now is in the process of meeting some of the administrative requirements for production and distribution of the coin. Stay tuned for future information on this. From Florida, Ox Schrader and Anne and Carl Biersack are all doing well. As well as I can determine, these two families are leaders in the glue that holds the VMI contingent living on the west coast of Florida together. What I didn’t know is that Ox came to VMI to wrestle, not play football! He still looks as if he can handle challenges on the field or on the mat. Ann Biersack, who uses a wheelchair, participated in all events and was completely undaunted with her disability, serving as an inspiration to all who came in contact with her. From another west coast Floridian comes the news from Emory Baya that his significant other, Angele, has a grandson, Aiden Fleet, who will be enrolling in the Institute next fall. Emery is looking forward to this, which will give him plenty of opportunities to return to VMI and visit some old friends. This cements another future alumnus with Baya associations stretching back to Harry Porcher Baya ’888, all matriculating from the Tampa area. Jack Landham followed a similar career trajectory as many in our class, that of returning to the site of their matriculation to spend much of their life. Jack matriculated from Griffin, Georgia; graduated; and then obtained a master’s in divinity from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and then did his time in the service (Army and Air Force) including assignments to Ramstein AFB in Germany, Korea, and Desert Storm. After retiring
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Class of 1971 1. Scott Pardee’s name is listed on the memorial plaque commemorating alumni who died in the Vietnam War. 2. Will Wickun on Iwo Jima with Mount Suribachi in the background.
Yells during the 55th Reunion in April 2026. 6. Margaret and Bill Ginder show off their latest version of ’71 Reunion coveralls.—Photo courtesy VMI Alumni Agencies.
4. Tom Scott, Al Davis, and Lew Rea during their rat year.
7. Having lunch at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, are (front row, from left) Jill Cook, Tommy Cook ’70, Susan Copty, Zeke Ellington, Jane Ellington, Anne Mikula, (second row) Lanny Gault, Terry Sue Gault, Bob Copty ’70, and Ned Mikula.
5. Al Davis, class vice president, leads brother rats into barracks for Old
8. Margaret Ginder and Jim Neikirk during the 55th Reunion in April 2026.
3. Tom Scott, Al Davis, and Lew Rea, rat year roommates, at the 55th Reunion in April 2026.
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Class Notes as an Air Force chaplain, Jack returned home to Griffin, where he has been a Hospice chaplain for the past 15 years. He is also pretty much unchanged in appearance and instantly recognizable on first look. What reunion would be official or complete without the presence of Brother Rat Bill Ginder and his fashion-statement embroidered overalls? This year was no exception, as “Sweet William” was attired in the 55th Reunion edition, complete with embroidered updates displayed on the model himself, along with few other spicy comments sewn into the fabric. To say that the overalls were the topic of conversations as they were “read” and enjoyed by many would be an understatement. This, in addition to his very significant contributions to the necessary supplies in the hospitality suite, which contributed exponentially to the feelings of happiness in the suite and most certainly stimulated the inevitable embellishment of stories from the “Old Corps!” Bill and Margaret continue to thrive in Texas. Margaret, who actually does all the design and fashion work for the coverall product, is already making plans for our 60th Reunion rendition. I can’t wait! Another Texas couple who joined us for the 55th Reunion after missing the 50th were Pat and Larry Wiese, who now reside here in Lexington. Larry was with us for 2 years before finishing his undergraduate education at Sam Houston State in his native Texas. He then followed this with a law degree from Texas Tech. He then served 3 years in the Coast Guard, followed by the position of senior legal counsel for Marathon Oil. At Sam Houston State, he met Pat, which resulted in marriage Aug. 12, 1972, the exact same day that Jane and I were married here in Lexington. Small world, indeed! Pat has had an interesting career herself. She initially worked in the petroleum brokerage business before attaining a Ph.D. in children’s literature and then teaching at Texas A&M. She was also heavily involved in A&M’s foreign study program in Italy. Possibly the most interesting outcome in her career is that she now works in the VMI Writing Center, helping cadets in polishing their writing skills. Many of you are aware of Bob Pickral’s battle with pancreatic cancer. He has gone through an extended period of chemotherapy and surgery but is now slowly recovering with a round of radiation therapy in the future. Despite significant weight loss and profound weakness, Bob has started to get stronger, gain weight, and has maintained a wonderful fighting spirit and positive attitude. He is determined to win this battle and expresses profound thanks to all the BRs and others who have pitched in to help he and Nancy navigate this
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difficult diagnosis. Since Bob was diagnosed, many of us have seen the YouTube episode unearthed by Box and Ollie Wall about Tom Dinwiddie’s battle with this disease, which ultimately took his life. I also just found out that Bill Willis also was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer but now appears to be disease-free. Please keep all these BRs in your prayers. I have heard from a number of BRs who wished to pass on their best wishes but had to miss the reunion due either to their illness, their significant other’s illness, or plans just didn’t work out. It was a tough adjustment replanning the year with the unexpected, for many, movement of the reunion to the front of the week rather than the weekend. But we are adequately warned now, so next reunion, plan ahead. Another note from the gim comes from Ken Yorgey. Many noted that Ken was walking with the help of a cane due to knee problems and a knee replacement, which put the nix on his and Carol’s wonderful ballroom dancing demonstrations. After arriving back home, Ken’s knee “blew up like a basketball.” He was immediately admitted to the hospital, had his knee prosthesis removed, another placed, and now is getting daily IV antibiotics until May 29. By the time you are reading this, we hope that he will be on the way to recovery. I got a very nice note from Sid Friend, now also a proud Texan, who regretted that he was unable to attend our 55th but is looking forward to coming to our 60th. Sid stays busy working as a semiconductor technology subject matter expert at Texas Tech University in their design process for building a clean room. I must admit, as a biology major, this is way over my understanding or pay grade, but I’m glad someone has the perseverance and brain power to tackle such jobs as these. This is amazingly impressive for someone with a degree in English! Sid also serves as senior warden and treasurer for the Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church in Lubbock. His daughter is an HR compensation specialist working in San Antonio, where his son also lives and works in a Toyota factory building Tacomas and Tundras. Out of the blue one evening, I got a call from a New York area code, only to find Mo Maier on the other end of the line. Mo has a long family history of association with VMI with his father, John E. Maier ’947, and uncle, Tomothy I. Maier ’957, both graduates. Mo was with us for 2 years before leaving and serving 2 years in the Air Force. He then returned to live in his hometown of Rochester, New York, where he worked in the construction management firm which he owned. Mo was present at several of our early reunions and was planning on returning for our 55th but had some
last-minute complications which prevented him from attending. He was very disappointed and wants to see us all at the 60th. Dabney Oakley called to express his regrets about being unable to attend the reunion but brought me up to date on life on the Northern Neck of Virginia. Dabney is doing well and still very involved in publishing and maintaining interest in Virginia history. Right after our conversation, he sent me the fourth edition of “The Hornbook of Virginia History,” a concise history of everything Virginia. While reading through the pages, I was struck by a picture taken in the early 1870s showing the 11-person members of the House of Delegates Committee on Asylums and Prisons. Standing right in the center of the picture, in the place where the chairman would be, stood the spitting image of our own Jimmy “Rooster” Westbrook. As Ned Mikula oft said, “You can’t just make this stuff up!” Speaking of Ned, he is in the process of unwinding after a long and successful career as an attorney. After graduating from VMI, Ned spent 3 years on active duty in the Air Force, during which time he attained a master’s degree from Southern Illinois University, then a J.D. from the University of Richmond. He then practiced in the Richmond area as a defense lawyer until his soon-tobe well-deserved retirement. Ned and Anne are frequent travelers, and their experiences from all around the world are fascinating. He has been on so many cruises that he certainly could be called Adm. Mikula, many slots above his apogee of 1st Class private at the Institute. Anne and Ned are the proud parents of three sons and a daughter, with a son, Matthew ’04, a VMI grad. Last but not least is recognition of the monthly or bimonthly meetings for lunch by the SWVA ’71 VMI alumni lunches. This is a gathering of BRs from Roanoke down into deep SW Virginia who get together every month to every other month to swap stories and talk. I joined them once when they came to Lexington on one of their bicycle trail rides. Rick Littleton has been under the weather with some dental and other health issues but is now hopefully on the mend. When the group is fully together with Jim Gearhart, Rick Littleton, Bruce Rush, Buddy Bryan, Bill Gentry, Herb Whitley, Jim Kelly, Dan Czupryna, and Bill Gearhart ’70, you can be assured that the stories, none of them recognizable from the last meeting(!), will be told and retold and a good time will be had by all. I am sure I am missing someone’s story, so please excuse my errors and stay healthy and safe and keep me updated on your activities. Sincerely, Zeke
Class Notes between the commander-in-chief, civilian leadership, and senior military leadership. The case centered on the actions of General Mark Milley as reLarry Houseworth ported by journalist Bob Woodward in the latter part of the first Trump administration. The central dilemma with which teams needed to respond was the relationship between the contents of the oath of office, with its promise of primary loyalty to defend the Constitution, and an officer’s duty to Greetings, All, respect the chain of command.” That would have These notes cover the Dark Ages through midbeen interesting to witness. May and graduation for the Class of 2026. And I In spring sports news, VMI’s Zak Kent ’20, a was right last time about the pollen and half-right right-handed pitcher, was claimed off waivers about the sunshine. But by the time you read this by the Washington Nationals from the Minnesoin August, we may be anxious for a return to coolta Twins, which is interesting because the Nats er weather. claimed him just as they were going into a seHoopla surrounding the new administration in ries against Minnesota. Zak is 28 years old, was Richmond is, thankfully, subsiding. New mema ninth-round pick by the Texas Rangers in 2019, bers of the VMI Board of Visitors are in place (inand broke into the majors last season with the cluding Tom Williamson), and any indication of Cleveland Guardians. substantive pressure from Richmond has yet to In other baseball news, 1st Class Cadet Hunter show its face. Bills submitted by legislators have Sipe ’26, VMI pitcher, has a 3.20 ERA through been drastically pared down, if not stricken, and 71 innings, and 1st Class Cadet Owen Prince ’26, the only real requirement placed upon VMI is to utility fielder, who was ranked third report to the General Assembly on in the nation last year in stolen basprogress made since the Barnes & es, is ranked 31st this year with 28 Thornburg exercise 5 years ago. stolen bases in 51 games. Very imAnd funding of VMI, as well as pressive! the other 14 public colleges and Alumni giving remains very universities, is firmly in place. strong with VMI’s year-to-date As an aside, the Board of Visipercentage of alumni participation tors link at vmi.edu/about/goverat 16.48%, which is just short of nance/board-of-visitors provides twice the national average. Donors background on members and who give to what they believe has enappointed them, governing docuriched them, and it shows. ments, minutes of past meetings, On to our news. The resiland more. It’s a great tool for cutience of our group never ceases ting through partisan smoke and Class of 1972: Bill Irby, Roger Hart, Lindley Vaughan, Wayne Harrell, and Leo to amaze me. Without naming mirrors. Szydlowski at the Room 122 reunion hosted by the Vaughans. names, we have BRs and their In Richmond, retired Air Force Gen. John Jumper ’66 is chair of the State Council of Higher Education in Virginia. As the Commonwealth’s coordinating body for higher education, SCHEV “makes higher education public policy recommendations to the governor and General Assembly in such areas as capital and operating budget planning, enrollment projections, institutional technology needs, and student financial aid. SCHEV administers a variety of educational programs that benefit students, faculty, parents, and taxpayers. SCHEV serves as a catalyst to promote greater access, quality, affordability, and accountability throughout the system. SCHEV also helps policymakers, college administrators, and other concerned leaders work coClass of 1972: Rick and Karen Bishop, Bill Smith, Tom and Sally Moncure, George Kosovic, Liz operatively and constructively to advance educaChannel, Chris Arey, Libby and Mike Kennedy, and Barbara and Phil Smith at Ed Channel’s celetional excellence.” The Commonwealth and VMI bration of life in Portsmouth, Virginia. are in good hands.
1972
As another aside, SCHEV is a great source for specific data regarding enrollment trends and counts, demographics, graduation rates, and post-graduation success. Comes in handy for gleaning fact from fiction. It’s also a great source for tracking VMI’s recruiting strategies and models in the face of the “enrollment cliff” and the declining pool of eligible high school graduates. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the accreditation institution for 780 southern colleges and universities, has awarded its Torch Award for bachelor’s degree institutions to VMI. The Torch Award recognizes an institution’s demonstrated achievement in affordability, student support, completion, and post-graduate success. This year’s award places VMI ahead of such well-known academic stars as Davidson, Wofford, and Hampden-Sydney. When the VMI ethics team won first place at last year’s Ethics Case Competition at the Naval Academy’s Stockdale Center for Ethical Leadership (for the third time), the case was titled “Striking the Right Balance.” The case “focused on the friction
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Class Notes families battling and holding at bay daunting “slings and arrows of outrageous fortune.” Yet, in most cases, you’d never know it. Rest assured, BRs, there are always those who could use some light and peace directed their way. On a lighter note, Leo Sydlowski sent this note and the picture expanding on last summer’s Room 122 reunion lunch hosted by Debra and Lindley Vaughan. Leo said, “It was so thoughtful of them, and I will hold it in my memories. From left to right: Bill Irby, Roger Hart, Lindley Vaughan, Wayne Harrell, and yours truly. Also, Linda Irby and Karen Harrell were there. It was great to see everyone and have all the roommates together and talk about the ‘Old Corps.” And all I see are the same grinning faces from 1970–72. Paul Gorski wrote, saying, “My grandson, John Gorski ’26, will be graduating in a few weeks. He will be joining the U.S. Secret Service.” Outstanding. Maybe John can whip them into shape; they
Class of 1972: Walt Chalkley slams his 1,000th career hit in The Villages, Florida.
Class of 1972: Jimmy Flynn’s grandson, Jackie Ignatius Higgins.
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can use all the help they can get. Jimmy Flynn shared the picture of grandson Jackie Ignatius Higgins (VMI 2042-ish?) working out on the trampoline. The Harts sent this note: “Hope you are well. Please find attached a pic of Roger and Bill Long in Jacksonville. We were visiting the Longs and celebrating family.” Nice spread you’ve got yourself there, Bill. The mighty Walt Chalkley said, “If you live long enough, things will automatically happen. I had my 1,000th hit in softball last month (March). If I live to 100, then I might get to 2,000. The Villages is where old men can be kids again.” With softball in March—oh yeah! By the way, great form, BR! Dr. Geoff Bull says, “I had to close my urgent care business on my 15th anniversary, March 21. I am trying to decide whether to retire or do occasional locums.” There’s no sitting around for you, BR. Eric Hammersen, our Texan Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus, shared this: “All is well in the Texas Hill Country. Earlier this month, Carol and I were both elected to 2-year terms in the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature to represent our district. TSHL was established by the Texas government back in 1985 as a nonpartisan elected body to help develop state policies through the legislative process and advocate for issues affecting older Texans. Those aged 60 and above are the fastest-growing segment of the state’s population. Since its inception, more than 275 laws have been passed based on TSHL recommendations. We meet in the legislative chamber in the capitol in Austin. Should be interesting.” Absolutely, BR, and I can think of several other legislatures ripe for this activism. Tom Moncure sent along a picture from Ed Channel’s celebration of life in Portsmouth. I was sorry that Marie and I had to miss it; Ed was a pillar.
Class of 1972: Bill Long and Roger Hart in Jacksonville, Florida.
OK, that’s it for now, gang. Watch for information on plans for our 55th Reunion, stay safe, and let’s look out for each other. Rah Virginia Mil! Larry
1973
Mike Kelly
Greetings, Brother Rats, Spring has arrived, flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and life is good. New Market Day is this week, and I trust all of you have the colors flying! I hope you are enjoying the summer now and are looking forward to the fall and football season. Big Red has a lot of opportunities this year, and I hope all of us can get out and support the team. It has been an up-and-down spring for us—record lows, record highs, and it is still playing havoc with my plants! Pat and I had a busy winter traveling to see kids and grandkids. Our most recent trip was to the Knoxville area for a few days, and then over to Nashville. My son, Derek, had a banquet to go to with his company, so we went along to visit “Honky-tonk” town. Myself, my two sons, and my son-in-law took a neat trip to Louisville to do a whiskey distillery tour. We were celebrating special birthdays—one of us had turned 75, my oldest son 50, a sister-in-law 60, and my youngest son will be 40 next year. My oldest son, Scott, set it all up for us, and my dad would have told us we “got above our raising!” We had a great time— visited six distilleries and toured four of them. It was certainly an interesting time and very enjoyable. The hotel put up happy birthday signs and No. 75 for me in the suite and left me an engraved happy birthday bottle of Woodford Reserve. Before our trip, I received a superior court jury summons to appear shortly after we returned. I did not opt out and went thinking I would not have to worry about it, but it took 2 days to select the jury (a murder trial), and although I didn’t get selected, I was unable to go to VMI as I had planned. Roland Tiso was the keynote speaker at the Army ROTC dining-in, and I was going to attend. Sorry, Ro! Dave Woody, Yerry Kenneally, Jim Davidson, Terry Howlett, and John Wranek ’85 were able to attend. I understand they had a great time. Terry was in North Carolina the following week and had planned to come by and visit with us. He
Class Notes was attending a memorial service in Raleigh for his brother, David, who passed away a few months ago. Unfortunately for us, Terry was unable to stop by, as he had a lot of relatives to catch up with. I learned in February that our BR John Kearney’s wife, Helen Carney, passed away suddenly. She apparently lost her balance at home and fell, and John told me he thought she also had a heart attack. John said he was heartbroken and wanted to be sure our BRs were aware. A memorial service was held Feb. 21. John lives in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania. We are so sorry for your loss, John, and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Charlie Havasy let me know that his brother had also passed away recently. On Feb. 18, a memorial service was held in Staunton, Virginia, for Danny Williams’ wife, Terry. Tom Napier was in attendance, along with about 25 other BRs, to show support for Danny. The Wednesday night Baptist church service was dedicated to Terry, as she grew up in the area. Tom said it was great to see such an outpouring of love and brotherhood, and Danny was certainly surprised and happy. Best wishes, Danny, and we are pulling for you to relax and settle in at your new home in Kansas. Klaus and Laura Worrell will be in town, and we plan to get together for dinner on the 15th to celebrate New Market Day. Laura’s father is in High Point, and they come to visit regularly; we try to get together for dinner while they are here. We also will be finalizing plans for our annual beach trip to Nags Head, North Carolina. We’ve been going there with BRs for several years for a week in August, but this year, we are going to try 2 weeks the first of September. Hopefully, no hurricanes will decide to pop up while we are there. We always have a great time together. In April, I had the privilege of representing our class and attending
Class of 1973: Dave Woody; Jim Davidson; Roland Tiso, keynote speaker; Terry Howlett; Yerry Kenneally; and John Wranek ’85 at the U.S. Army ROTC dining-in April 21, 2026.
Class of 1973: At breakfast in Richmond, Virginia, are (from left) John Landry, George Tisdale, Webb Tyler, Tom Jennings, Tom Napier, Hank Weatherford, Malon Updike, Bob Bowman, Don Reisch, G.G. Gray, Bill Boland, and R.B. Newman.
Class of 1973: Ken Kalisky, Bill Boland, Paul Jalbert, Tom Napier, Mike MacKenzie, Hank Weatherford, George Tisdale, and Bob Vanderspiegel gather in Ashland, Virginia, to celebrate Paul’s 75th birthday March 15, 2026.
the VMI Foundation Scholarship Banquet, where sponsors have an opportunity to meet and have lunch with the recipient of their scholarship. In case you are not aware, our class has a scholarship fund that currently has a market value of $254,054 of which the principal balance is $183,431. Funds available for FY27 are $6,446. Cadet Samuel Hart ’27 from Mattaponi, Virginia, is the current recipient of the Class ’73 Scholarship and is a mechanical engineering major. Joe and Paula Wyatt were also in attendance representing their Joseph R. Wyatt Jr. ’43 and Paula C. Wyatt Scholarship fund honoring Joe’s parents. The scholarship was established in 2017 following the passing of Joe’s parents and was set up for engineering students who successfully completed their 3rd Class year. Cadet Ysabel “Bel” Casillas ’27 from Lake Elsinore, California, one of two recipients, joined us for lunch. G.G. Gray and Willie Wells were present, as well, and both are associated with scholarships; however, their recipients were unable to attend. As you provide support to VMI, please remember our class scholarships. Willie gave me a picture of a German MP-40 Schmeisser machine gun that Michael Burks’ widow, Sandra, presented to the VMI Museum. Mike’s dad, Ramon Burks, brought it back from Germany upon completion of World War II. Willie remains in contact with Sandra and said she was doing well. I hope to get a picture of it in the next issue of the Review. Thanks to Sandra for her generosity to the Institute. Roland Tiso has been busy giving speeches and holding book signings. As I mentioned earlier, he was the guest speaker at the VMI Army ROTC dining-in at Marshall Hall, and while there for this visit, he, too, presented some military artifacts to the museum that he collected during his years of overseas service. Ro also recently spoke at the Community Salutes event in 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes Tampa, honoring 129 young Americans who have enlisted in the armed forces. Ro said his second book, “Soldiering in Hard Times, A Junior Officer’s Reflections on the Post Vietnam Army of the 1970s,” was accepted for publication and is scheduled for release Feb. 1, 2027. Congratulations, Ro! He has already started writing his third book about the transformation of the Army in the 1980s and ’90s. Members of our class have had several group activities in the past few months. Ken Kalisky sent me a note and picture of a gathering held March 15 when a group got together to celebrate Paul Jalbert’s 75th birthday. Ken said more than 100 friends and family were there for the celebration held in a beautiful area of Ashland, Virginia, with lots of good food, including barbecue! BRs and guests came from Texas, Georgia, Florida, and New Jersey. In addition to those pictured, John Landry also attended; however, he had to leave prior to the picture being taken. I understand Paul gave a very emotional speech, and of course, added a lot of his humor, and everyone really enjoyed the event. Malon Updike let me know he had a meeting with Bill Boland this spring in Richmond, and Bill suggested getting some BRs together for breakfast. The group gathered at the Westbury Pharmacy and enjoyed some great food and service. Paul Jalbert was present, and apparently, his sister is one of the owners. In addition to those pictured, Mike Smith was also present; however, he had to leave early for a dentist’s appointment. Malon said they had such a great time that they decided to make it an “every-other-month event.” On April 30, a group of VMI alums gathered at the Ford’s Colony Country Club in Williamsburg, Virginia, for an event called the Mark Weiss Memorial Golf Tournament. Attending were Jim Chapman ’69, Ken Kalisky, Mike MacKenzie, Paul Jalbert, Rich Lykins, Mike Smith, Yerry Kenneally, Trip Costen ’97, Stuart Seaton, George Tisdale, R.B. Newman, Billy Stephens, Sandy Edens ’72, Ralph Costen ’70, Don Reisch, Tom Napier, Darrell Rickmond, Darrell Rickmond ’07, Bill Paulette ’69, and Bill Boland. Ken and Stuart both sent me information on the event, and hopefully I can get a picture in the next Review. It was interesting to note that Jim Chapman is from Pulaski, Virginia. We were in the same high school and Scout troop, and my brother, Jim Kelly ’71, played high school basketball with him. Furthermore, Jim Chapman was instrumental in getting my brother, Jim, interested in VMI and greatly influenced his decision to
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attend the Institute, and of course, he was followed by myself and my brother, Steve Kelly ’77. Chapman was Ring Figure dyke for my brother Jim. Stuart said that Chapman and his wife, Ruth, moved to Williamsburg and into his neighborhood a couple of years ago. Reminds me of a situation several years back when VMI and Air Force were playing football. Pat and I were staying with Tom and Bonnie Clark, and Tom found my dyke, Harry Bare, whom I had lost contact with, and realized they were actually living in the same neighborhood! I had a nice note from Bill Stoner, who lives in Trophy Club, Texas, and he indicated that all was well in Texas, and he had enjoyed a great birthday. Tim Hassell also sent a nice note saying he was really enjoying retirement and getting bucket list items checked off. In March, he and his wife, Ruth, spent a couple of weeks in Egypt visiting as many historical sites as they could work in from Cairo, the pyramids, Sphinx on the Giza plateau, Luxor, and numerous other ruins and sites, including the new Grand Egyptian Museum at Giza. They returned home safely to Northern Virginia and are actively planning their next trip. Pete Walters posted on Facebook copies of some neat pictures that he viewed at the Art in Bloom Exhibit held in April at the Hagerstown Museum of Fine Art in Hagerstown, Maryland. Pete said this exhibit was different from many other art exhibits and was very enjoyable. M.B. Adelson seems to be thoroughly enjoying his retirement—and I think his wife, Mary, is enjoying his retirement, as well. Mary has always been into gardening and specialty decorating, and M.B. said he was in the process
of building an English greenhouse complete with specialty glass shipped from Belgium. It includes a 2-foot stem wall and stucco, an 8x12-footer, and a lot of steel framing. (According to M.B., Mary watches a lot of the HGTV renovation shows.) Sounds like M.B. gets to put aside his legal career and is now using his engineering master’s degree. I can’t wait to see it! He said he looks forward to a few breaks because he now has his 1978 MG-B back from the paint and restoration shop and looks forward to a few country road cruises. I have not highlighted a “lost brother rat” in a few months, but I am pleased to say that in late February, I had a nice note from Dorsey Smallwood. Dorsey left VMI early, entered North Carolina State University, and graduated in
Class of 1973: Tim and Ruth Hassell at the Step Pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara, Egypt, in March 2026.
Class of 1973: Joe Wyatt, Cadet Ysabel Casillas ’27, Paula Wyatt, Cadet Samuel Hart ’27, Mike and Pat Kelly, G.G. Gray, and Willie Wells attend the VMI Foundation Scholarship Banquet April 18, 2026.—Photo courtesy VMI Alumni Agencies.
Class Notes 1973 with an engineering degree. After graduation, he went to work in South Louisiana in the oil and gas industry, initially with the offshore industry and later moving to New Orleans, where he worked for about 30 years. He spent 5 years in The Hague (for Royal Dutch Shell) and then moved to Houston, where he eventually retired and still lives. He has been in touch over the years with some BRs, including Mac Kirkpatrick, and he was aware of Mark Weiss’ and Doug Baumgardner’s passings. He used to communicate with Tom Moncure but said they have not been in touch for several years. As many of us have discovered, retirement finds a way to keep us busy, but Dorsey said he did a lot of traveling when he was working, so vacation travel isn’t a big deal for him now, but he and his wife, Pam, enjoy an occasional cruise. They have two sons; one is in New Orleans and the other in New York. It was great hearing from you, Dorsey. Please keep in touch. I am frequently contacted by BRs and other alumni who are looking for contact information on members of our class. Most recently, I had a request from A.J. Kendrick, who was looking for Mike Gravely. I haven’t heard from Mike in a long time (I have had others asking about him, as well.) Please ensure that you are registered in the VMI Ranks, which shows information for all classes. This site is only available to alumni, and you can sign up and put in as much or as little information as you want. VMI has also recently launched a new website called myVMIalumni, which can be used by alumni for group chats, chapters, and classes, and has information on job opportunities available from alumni. I encourage you to sign up for that, as well, and I hope you know about our class Facebook page. Our Facebook page is controlled by Tom Clark and Mac Kirkpatrick, so if you would like to participate in that group, please let one of them know. As you are reading these notes, you will probably be baking in the August sun and looking forward to the fall. I hope all of you are having a great summer and celebrated our country’s 250th anniversary. We are looking forward to our annual Fourth of July celebration and family reunion at the ranch in Pulaski County; however, when this issue of the Review comes out, that event will have passed, and we will be looking forward to our 2 weeks in Nags Head with BRs! Hopefully we can get together this fall for some of the games. Please be safe and keep in touch. In the Bonds, Mike
1974
Snookie Parker
Greetings, Brother Rats, Family, and Friends of the Class of 1974! I trust this missive will find you in good spirits. First order of business: Be prepared to save the date for the alumni rugby game in April 2027! Class of ’74 rugby BRs: Chuck Cayton, Tom Patykula, Tommy Anderson, Andy Eason, Don Ferrell, Roland Lazenby, Rob Bacon, Rod Beard, Al Beaty, Bob Bellemare, Mike Cole,
Mike Dugan, Pat Flynn, Rich Forbes, and any other former VMI ruggers I may have forgotten. Note: The Class of ’74 ruggers will likely all be 74 years old for the match. I’m not sure we would get any playing time—too old and brittle—but we could dominate the party afterward! With you, on your right! On March 14, the VMI ’74 NOVA breakfast bunch met to solve the problems of the world over cups of joe and flapjacks: Charley Banning, Charlie Gardner, Don Kilcullen, Jim Cottrell, Bill Minor, Antonio Ahanj ’24, Mark Levine, and Robert “Craig” MacFarlane. Antonio Ahanj was an invited guest. Some of our BRs met Antonio at the reunion. And of course, some of our BRs very graciously and generously contributed when Don Kilcullen “passed the hat” to help Antonio defray expenses when he was at the University
Class of 1974: Gathering to celebrate Roland Lazenby’s induction into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame are (from left) Donnie Ross, Al Rasper, Craig “Snapper” Carlock, Bruce Jones, Mike Coleman, Pat Flynn, Rob Taylor ’75, Snookie Parker, Roland, Bob Benninger, Lane Toomey, Scottie Lowell, David Lester, Jeff Huckabee, J.W. Simms, and Rod Beard.
Class of 1974: Attending Roland Lazenby’s induction into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame are (from left) Craig “Snapper” Carlock, Al Rasper, Donnie Ross, Bruce Jones, Mike Coleman, Pat Flynn, Rob Taylor ’75, Snookie Parker, Bob Benninger, Lane Toomey, Scottie Lowell, David Lester, Jeff Huckabee, J.W. Simms, and Rod Beard.
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Class Notes of Amman in Jordan. A couple of highlights 2024, then this year on my first attempts, set three his recovery. I wish my doc would write me a preabout Antonio: Graduated “with distinction” in more, and on second attempt, broke those and re- scription to go to the Bahamas to recover—all that international studies, State Department Critical ceived the four national records certificates,” he vitamin D provided by the sun! I received a nice note from Anna Van Laethem. Languages Scholar (Morocco), Boren Scholar shared proudly. Additionally, last summer, Dan (University of Amman, Jordan), and just finished was inducted into the hall of fame at his alma ma- Anna misses George and the Tidewater area. She a congressional internship on Capitol Hill. An ter, Cabrillo High School in Lompoc, California, has moved to Belmont, North Carolina, to be closfor being an athlete, warrior, patriot, educator, and er to her grandchildren, Tripp (10) and Millie (5). outstanding VMI grad on his way to a bright future I received several notes and a package of memwith some assistance from the VMI Class of 1974! inspirational leader. Dan Barr joins his sister, ShaOur card-carrying thespian Wilson Johnson was ron Spalding, an athlete in her own right, and is al- ories and books from long-lost BR Tryon L. “Larry” Andreas (E. Co.). Larry attended VMI his rat in a show called “Bright Star” and features blue- ready in the school’s hall of fame, making them the year with the plan to attend West Point, an appointgrass-style music and a great story. Steve Martin sole brother-sister pair holding the honor. I got word that Mike Coleman had a heart is- ment he had secured the year before but was too (SNL fame) and Edie Brickell wrote the story and music. The show ran March 13–29 Fridays, Satur- sue in late March and then headed to the Bahamas young to attend. His rat year GPA prevented his reto recover. I understand Mike is doing well with appointment—calculus, analytical geometry, and days, and Sundays. I have not seen the reviews, but swimming lowered his GPA— as it I’m sure the show was a winner! Did did just about every other BR. Laryou break a leg, Wilson? ry has vivid memories of his time at I received news that Marvin Watts VMI—some fond, some not so fond has been diagnosed with stage 3 cobut funny. Larry is a retired qualilon cancer and began chemo or raty engineer with ABB Inc Robotdiation treatment in early March. I ics from Elkhorn, Wisconsin. Larunderstand Marvin is working with ry and wife Patty helped found the a top-tier medical team. Marvin says Briggs Evangelical Free Church in despite life’s setbacks, he still loves Elkhorn. The Andreas are an FFA the Lord and appreciates the prayers family, with Larry growing up on a and support. Keep Marvin in your farm, and their daughter currently prayers! serves as the president of Elkhorn A quick note on the Class of 1974 Future Farmers of America—secMemorial Scholarship recipients. ond term. Larry sent information on They are Cadet Jacob Cook ’26 Class of 1974: Roland Lazenby with his family at his induction into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame. Pictured are (from left) Cadet Liam Hollowthe June 19–21, 2026, International from Wheelersburg, Ohio, majoring ell ’27, Jenna Lazenby, Henry Lazenby, Karen Lazenby, Roland, and Katie Military Vehicle Festival (the 51st in psychology, and Cadet Wyatt DolGray. Military Vehicle Preservation Assolenger ’29 from Woodbridge, Virginciation Convention) close to Lexingia, majoring in physics. Well done, ton (Fisherville, Virginia), celebratClass of 1974! ing 50 years of history in motion. As BR Dan Barr continues to raise a hobby, Larry, an avid military vethe “Barr” (pun intended) and break hicle preservationist and a member his own national powerlifting reof the MVPA, has restored a World cords—improving his total by 88 War II M20 armor car. He provided pounds at the 2026 United States a funny story about an M4 tank he Powerlifting Coalition meet. In purchased ... without telling Patty. February 2024, he competed in his Larry and Patty will be celebrating age bracket at the USPC meet held their 50th wedding anniversary in in Cocke Hall and set both state June. Thanks for the contact, Larry, and national records in squat with and congrats all around for 50 years 249.1 pounds, bench press with together. We need to see you and 238 pounds, and deadlift with 319.6 Patty at the next reunion! pounds, for a total of 806.7 pounds. I received a nice vote of confiDuring the recent 2026 USPC meet, dence via Facebook Messenger from Dan broke his own record in squat Tom Patykula. Thanks, Tom. with 275.5 pounds, bench press with Got a call from Andy Young, who 253.5 pounds, and deadlift with was having trouble getting up with 365.9 pounds, for a total of 894.9 Gary Trinkle. There was a time not pounds, improving his overall total too long ago (reunion) where Gary by 88 pounds. According to Dan, the and I were communicating, if not USPC does not normally issue a cerClass of 1974: Rod Beard, Ed Plucinski ’86, Mary Beth Plucinski, John every day, maybe every other day, tificate for each attempt that breaks Pate, and Suzanne Pate in Mexico. and I had not heard from him in a a record. “So, I set three records in
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Class Notes while, so I gave him a call. Turns out, Gary had been wrestling with a viral infection in his right eye since mid-2025 and has limited his activities. He is now on the mend and raring to “get back in the game.” Now that Alison is fully retired, Gary’s “honey do” will likely start to grow exponentially! Marla and I were excited to attend a wedding in Savannah, Georgia, in early April. Marla and I met in Savannah, so this was an opportunity to take a pleasant stroll down memory lane. We had a wonderful time visiting old haunts during the day and high-end wedding events in the evening. On Sunday morning, I had the opportunity to share a cup of joe and a sweet roll with John Savage. We had spent some time with John and Ann Savage when we were first in Savannah back in the 1980s. John and Ann are still in Savannah and are full-time grandparents. Daughter Tyler lives in Savannah, is working on her Ph.D., and has remarried—three plus three grandkids. Son Mason, a radiologist in Atlanta, Georgia, with two grandkids. John still has three Indian motorcycles in his garage and still rides. Ann used to but not so much these days. John is planning his next ride; I think he mentioned somewhere around Maryland. John did say he stays in contact with his roomies, Tommy Anderson and John Cooper. John did mention that John Cooper’s wife, Heather Ann, passed in early March. Keep John and family in your prayers. Praise the Lord. I learned Ed Peduto’s wife, Renee, survived a car accident. I understand that, in order to avoid a collision, Renee swerved, hit a telephone pole, and an airbag saved the day. After a 24-hour stay in the hospital, Renee was back home. I say again, praise the Lord! Speaking of praising the Lord, Glenn Greene continues to host the VMI Class of 1974 prayer warrior group. The group meets the second Thursday of the month at 8 p.m. via Zoom. All are welcome to join, and a particular religious denomination is not required; anyone who wants to join, contact Rob Fulks for a Zoom invite: 281-7336707 (cell) or robfulks063@gmail.com. Gary Freedman sent a note inquiring about contact information for Don Caldwell ’73, thinking Don was in our class. Bert Graham was quick to respond, noting Don Caldwell was a DA in Roanoke, Virginia, and in the Class of 1973. We do have Caldwell in our class, BR John “JFW” Caldwell ... clearly not the same. Speaking of JFW, Don Whitten sent a recent inquiry of JFW. To the best of my knowledge, John “JFW” Caldwell resides in Madison, Alabama, with wife Di. I understand Mick Ernzen had a little medical issue while wintering in Arizona with the likes of Tom Mascot and Clark Peele. Apparently, Mick took a spill, broke some ribs, and wrenched his
Class of 1974: John Savage (left) and Snookie Parker in Savannah, Georgia, in April 2026. back, so his old stenosis started acting up. He had to stay in Arizona a little longer until he recovered. He and Debbie are back at their Lake Gaston home in North Carolina. I’m hoping Woodford Reserve had no part of that spill, and no excuses for your golf game! Glad you are back and healthy again. I received an update from my Wilson crosstown BR David Sheppard. He and Susan are still enjoying the small city life. David casually suggested moving back to Virginia Beach, and Susan said she’d miss David, so I guess they’re staying. David has shed a few of his civic duties but still has minor roles with preservation and The Arts Council. He does have another year as chair of the Community College Foundation board and somehow got roped into a place on his HOA. Dave plays tennis when he can find enough other players and so far, has not gone to the dark side (pickleball). Dave has been taking acrylic painting and is a leader with the Wilson Ukulele Band. In April, Dave bought a VMI gray ’12 V6 Mustang convertible with a 6-speed manual transmission. Dave says, “You’re only young twice, I guess.” Thanks for the update, Dave! Facebook seems to be a fruitful source for BR news in some cases. For example, I note John and Irene McLaren appear to be recording their April adventures in Turkey, to include a tour of Ephesus, Rhodes, and Constantinople. It looked like they were having a marvelous time enjoying what treasures the historic culture has to offer. We will need a comprehensive after-action report.
By the time you read these notes, BR Gene Williams’ June 1, 2026, charity golf tournament in support of the COW program will be over. Terrell Williams, John Pate, Rod Beard, and I will be one foursome. No expectations as John, Rod, and I will be Terrell’s handicap for this tournament. Phil Parker, Pete Shelley, and John White are looking for a fourth. I offered a friend of mine, Rory McIlroy. They said, “Who is he? Can he play?” “We prefer to have a BR who can hit a golf ball.” We’ll see! Good luck, fellows! On April 25, our BR Roland Lazenby (affectionately known as Crazy Laz by his BRs) was inducted into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame along with Grant Hill, Michael Vick, Tony Bennett, and others. A native of Wytheville, Virginia, Roland’s career as a writer, educator, and historian has earned international acclaim and secured his place as one of the Commonwealth’s most distinguished contributors to sports culture. Laz has authored more than five dozen nonfiction books, primarily focused on basketball and football, many of which are regarded as definitive biographies and team histories. His works combine journalistic rigor with deep historical context, offering insights into the personalities, pressures, and cultural impact surrounding elite competition. His most notable books: “Bull Run! The Story of the 1995–96 Chicago Bulls” (The Sports Book of the Year for 1997); “Michael Jordan: The Life” (The Sports Book of the Year 2015); “Jerry West: The Life and Legend of a Basketball Icon”; “Showboat: The Life of Kobe Bryant”; and “Magic: The Life of Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson.” Roland’s family was on hand in support of Roland: wife Karen, son Henry Lazenby with Katie Gray; daughter Jenna Lazenby with Steve Smalley and her son, Liam Hollowell ’27, and daughter, Morgan Lazenby, with Chad Rozner. Brother rats in attendance to witness this august recognition were Mike and Linda Coleman; Craig and son Joe Carlock; Thomas and Abby Walton; Pat and Sue Flynn; Bob and Vicki Benninger; Bruce and Sue Jones; Chuck and Elaine Cayton; Rick and Page Kastelberg; Tommy Anderson; Scottie and Tish Lowell; Jeff Huckabee and Kathy Dollard; Rob and Sandy Taylor ’75; David and Jan Lester; Rod Beard; J.W. and Pam Simms; Glenn Greene; Donny and Barbara Ross; Chip Beaman; Lane Toomey; Al and Judy Rasper; and Snookie and Marla Parker. Mel and Vicki Clark and Steve Fisher had signed up to attend but due to unforeseen conflicts could not. Friday night, we “early arrivals” gathered in Shula’s Steak House Bar & Lounge. About half of the aforementioned crew assembled and swapped stories over brew, fruity drinks with umbrellas, and brown spirits. ’Twas a fairly rowdy crowd ... lots 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes of warm embrace and hearty laughter. Saturday, we gathered in Shula’s once again and moved en masse to register and attend the reception and ceremony. Roland did well with his acceptance speech, and we, as a group, gave Roland a hearty Old Yell. Update on the April 2027 VMI Class of 1974 Southbound French River Cruise through Burgundy and Provence: We have 11 BRs with spouses signed up to go. Commitments so far: Snookie/ Marla Parker, Arnie/Maria Leonard, Rick/Page Kastelberg, Henry/Peggy Moncure, T.J./Kerri Wilson, Rich/Ann Forbes, Bob/Pam Johnson, Stephen/Anne Ham, Joe/Virginia McCoskrie, Craig/Cathy Carlock, and John/Suzanne Pate. There are several BRs still considering joining the trip. Note 1: There is still room available. Note 2: We have successfully negotiated an extension of the $3,000/per couple discount if registered by February 2026 to include those registering for the trip by September 2026 for our cruise members only. The cruise is high-end and very nice, but the highlight of the trip is traveling with your BRs. Too much fun! And finally, a sad note. In early April, Tom Cunningham’s wife, Robin, reported that Tom’s Parkinson’s disease has progressed to the point where she is no longer capable of caring for Tom at home. She mentioned she would prefer Tom to be at home; however, due to circumstances, Tom had since moved to Dockside Health and Rehabilitation, 74 Mizon Road, Locust Hill, VA, 23082. Tom required “skilled nursing.” I understood that Dockside Health and Rehabilitation has the best rating in the area. Robin says Tom’s greatest fear is that he will be forgotten. I encourage all BRs to write Tom and let him know that you remember him. Note: This is not a situation where a “get well” card would be appropriate, as he is not going to get better, nor can he go home. A last-minute update just before submitting this set of notes: Tom died the morning of May 9. Prayers for Robin and family. That is all for this set of class notes. Like I am quick to say every chance I get, we, as BRs, are getting longer in the tooth, so I encourage you to travel while you still can—and can enjoy the adventure. And by chance, if you have an opportunity to contact and/or visit a brother rat, by all means, take it! It may be your last chance—you never know. That is all for now! Class contacts: snookieparker1974@earthlink. net. Charley Banning cbanning@cox.net Send me a note. Yada, Yada, Yada and Yaba Daba Dooooo! In the Bonds, Snookie
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1975
Thomas Mason
Brothers, Sisters, and Innocent Bystanders, Chapter 6 (years), Episode 3 (edition): Let’s start with a heartfelt “thank you” to all of you who keep me apprised of your travels, activities, families, pets, and your health status. This little shaft of sunshine and starlight focusing on your escapades has been a gift that has helped me live vicariously through you for 6 years now! This space is dedicated to you, my classmates, your spouses, and loved ones for all to enjoy (or shrug off with a shiver of distaste). My wish is for many more of you to gift us a tattered fragment of material. I’m just the needle and thread stitching the satin, corduroy, silk, lace, serge, linen, chiffon, brocade, foulard, flannel, cashmere, leather, velvet, felt (velvet’s dollar store cousin), denim, jute, burlap, jacquard, seersucker, canvas, cotton, wool, twill, suede, and taffeta (you get the picture) pieces of rich fabric together. Sharing news of your world has been a privilege! Please continue to contribute. From mid-February to mid-May, let’s trudge onward. Taking something of a chronological path from where our notes last left us, Feb. 19 found Dan Schultz, Chip Louthan, Art Nunn, Al Morgan, John Maples, Ron Norman, Oliver Way, and your scribe attending the VMI legislative evening with the Virginia General Assembly at the Library of Virginia in Richmond. Attending photo indicates we shared some quality time with Lt. Gen. Furness ’87. Dr. Billy Hunter and Lee checked in March 6 while in Belize on a freshwater fishing expedition for bonefish, snook, and tarpon. They quartered at Chabil Mar Villas in coastal Palencia, and their guide took them inland to fish nearby rivers and creeks. Early March also found Chip Louthan in Hilton Head, South Carolina, to play golf with Jerry Dewaters and his friend, Porfi. In late May, Chip and Kathy will take their second-ever Alaska cruise with John Haithcock ’81 and his wife, Kathy. Chip remarked of worry over Mr. Way’s distress at the state of VMI athletics. April 5–9 found fair-weather golfers Guy Conte, Bernie Cobb, Jerry DeWaters, Chip Louthan, and Oliver Way in Scottsdale, Arizona, for two rounds at Camelback Golf Club and one round at the Talking Stick Golf Club. They
were joined by our own Keith Frey the day they played Sunrise Canyon. The first of the Moody Hall Farewell dates took place April 18. Dan Brooks, Fran Hillson, Don Bernardini, Bink Rush, and Scott Risser toured the building and some placed bids for the memory pieces being auctioned off when bidding closes in May. Each year, the Hunter brothers generously contribute to fund scholarships for deserving cadets. In additional April 18 news, Mike and Sloane, Dr. Billy, and Lee Hunter attended an annual scholarship luncheon at VMI in which they got to meet and fellowship with many of the various scholarship recipients. It is financial gifts like these that keep many cadets enrolled and achieving. The very next week, Mike and Billy Hunter spent some time in upstate South Carolina turkey hunting. Alas, they were shut out by the cunning fowl! Randy Frank and I often exchange upbeat, spirited emails. Randy celebrated his 73rd birthday with two half-marathons run within 1 month. Who among us could resist the Honeywagon Half-Marathon, so named for the road once used by horse and mule-drawn manure wagons for enriching and fortifying fields near a farming community along the Washington state/British Columbia Canadian border. Ah, the scent of rich, loamy, freshly tilled soil! Randy remains active with the Pacific Northwest Gordon Setter Club and has a network of support/daycare/kenneling for Dillon and Buck when he travels to visit friends and family in Virginia, Florida, and Hawaii. I talked to Paul Bernard on his birthday in March. His spirits remain high as he peppered me with questions about the pending bills affecting VMI that were in front of the Virginia state legislature. Please keep this BR front and center of your thoughts as he fights on. Cary Bradley checked in to inform of the passing of his dad, Harvey Bradley ’49B. I recall Mr. Bradley was one of the oldest living alumni remaining just a few months ago. Mr. Bradley was laid to rest with several VMI keepsakes in his bier. Among those items were his VMI sweater, his VMI shot glass in hand, and his putter at his side. On a happier note, Cary reported of a move a few miles northwest of Atlanta to a new house in Kennesaw, Georgia, and spending much loving time watching the many sports activities of his grandchildren. As many of you know, Charlie Freeman’s wife, Maureen, passed away in April. Maureen was a great cheerleader for VMI, having seen the movie, “Mardi Gras” (and developing a schoolgirl crush on Pat Boone), while in Cape Town, South Africa,
Class Notes has had his chemo port removed. David and Suwhere she grew up. Charlie met Maureen in 1976 san are both long-distance swimmers, knocking when he was stationed in Germany with the U.S. out a mile swim three to four times a week (still Army. I had the pleasure of seeing Charlie and earning at least 30 aerobic points per week)! Dave meeting Maureen when I enjoyed an overnight and Susan also teach Red Cross Adult and Pediatvisit with them when I was in Germany for REric First Aid/CPR/AED classes. Dave also volunFORGER 1977. Charlie states I was the first BR teers as an NRA range safety officer and instructor of his Maureen ever met and apparently displayed (.22 caliber) at a nearby Scout camp. They enjoy no off-putting conduct. Charlie expressed grativigorous daily exercise and waterplay with their tude for the outpouring of messages he received Weimaraner, Ruby, which keeps everyone fit. in support during this difficult time. Among those Dean Armstrong has more World War II hismentioned by name were Bob O’Connor, Len tory-oriented trips planned for 2026 to the PhilReidel, Randy Frank, and John Greene. ippines, Guam, the Marshall Islands, Saipan, and The sudden passing of Larry Groome March Tinian (Northern Mariana Islands). Dino is one of 31 was a punch in the gut. There was a lengthy the many of you who undertake and execute interand respectable outpouring of reaction from many esting and informative hobbies. classmates to that somber news. The class prayer Class of 1975: Pariolee and Rick Law on a Great Lakes cruise. Ken Gerard spent a busy spring relocating his team’s dedication to Larry’s life May 12 was well youngest son back to the Cincinnati area from attended by 31 BRs; Larry’s wife, Fran; daughFlorida, as the son has taken a new ter, Krissy, and her husband, Mark; job nearby. Ken continues to be a and sister-in-law, Wanda. Many rabid pickleball player, involved in warm, funny, and uplifting stories a church group, and breaking in a about Larry were shared by the group of new players. Same stuff, family and his BRs. different day! Dan and Sandy Brooks are restRich Mines has kept a logbook ed and relaxed after their winter/ of his cross-country and road race summer tour of New Zealand, events over the years. Rich comFrench Polynesia, and Hawaii. pleted his 497th 5K or 10K race Precise locations north and south in late April. He may have done a of the equator were noted. couple of more by the time these For 2 weeks in April, Nat and notes arrive in August. Rich shared Nancy Hamner traveled to Spain the great news that he had his cheand Portugal in a group of 20, mo infusion port removed in late came home to rest, do laundry, March. All is well! and repack for a May cruise down A May 6 text query as to Robthe east coast of Italy, up the west Class of 1975: Scott Risser, Sandy Brooks, Dan Brooks, Frank Hillson, Tina ert Mills’ whereabouts was simply coast of the boot, and then over to Hillson, and Don Bernardini visit Moody Hall April 18, 2026. answered, “Currently in Portugal, Sicily and down to the island of then the U.K.” Details (hopefully) Malta. Lots of history on that exto follow. cursion! Jay Newcomer’s news arrived John Whitworth checked in as via Facebook Messenger and was “all right” from the Florida annearly overlooked! Jay expressed nex and will return to the primary gratitude for the newsy birthday house in Connecticut in late May card he received about VMI and after the last filthy remnant of winexclaimed over his simple joy of ter snow has disappeared. eating carrot cake, reviewing artFrom Charlottesville, Dave work, and gushing over his grand“Sweets” Jensen reported being children’s tinkling of the 88s (piavertical, healthy, and “all right.” no). The day is extremely satisfying Consistent contributor Rick when an infrequent email arrives. Hening reports in as “present and From Glendale, California, David accounted for,” and will have a Henson wrote a lengthy memo, cornucopia to share in the next iswhich included information resue. garding his bout with acute proClass of 1975: Playing golf at Talking Stick Golf Course in Scottsdale, ArizoJohn L. and Brenda Young III myelocytic leukemia. With a high na, April 7, 2026, are (from left) Jerry DeWaters, Oliver Way, Chip Louthan, checked in, looking forward to the cure rate through a regimen of cheBernie Cobb, Guy Conte, and Keith Frey. late May FTX to London and then motherapy, he is in remission and 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes returning to the U.S. on the Queen Mary II from Southampton, U.K., to NYC. Bill and Cindy Witherow continue to move along at a steady pace in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, walking three to four times a week and playing pickleball. They plan at least two trips to Florida to visit family before year-end. A neat, concise bullet memo came in from Jay Jones. He and Dawn are others among the large group that Len Reidel has organized going to the U.K. and cruising back to the U.S. No tramp steamer, the QM II. Jay and Dawn celebrated 48 years together in April and announced the arrival of their first granddaughter. Jay is playing golf thrice weekly at the course at Langley AFB with a group of military and NASA retirees. Sosthenes Behn will return to the U.K. and hike the South West Coast Path in the Cornwall region between June 9–19. Sos will start his trek at Padstow and end in Penzance. Glenn Garland and Charlie Collins, are you taking notes? I look forward to hearing more about this coastal stroll along golden beaches, rocky headlands, fishing villages, castle ruins, and hidden coves. Speaking of Glenn Garland, a May 2 text message indicated he was on a Road Scholar Adriatic Sea cruise along the coast of Croatia and Montenegro with various island and mainland stops. The My Barbara is a 135-foot, three-masted motor yacht, which carries up to 32 passengers and seven crew. As many of you know, Glenn is a human mountain goat and loves taking day hikes on the steep, rocky terrain in Kotor, Montenegro; Split; and Zagreb. In addition to coordinating operations for the class prayer team, Tad MacGowan now has a part-time position in his church as director of connections, visiting shut-ins and new members. He also volunteers at Braking Cycles, working with
at-risk 18- to 24-year-olds and women on life skills and training. Tad and Dawn celebrated their first anniversary in April, and both are blessed with good health. Oliver and Bonnie Way generally keep an active travel schedule with trips to Bermuda in May, Savannah in June, Waynesville, North Carolina, (family reunion) in July, and Western Massachusetts/Maine in August. Rick “Dawg” and Pariolee Law took an interesting cruise which covered 4.1 of the five Great Lakes. Take out your North American atlas or turn your chair to the map on your office wall and picture this unique adventure with me. Embarking
Class of 1975: Attending the Foundation Scholarship Banquet April 18, 2026, are Dr. William Hunter, Cadet Chandler Wilson ’27, and Mike Hunter.
from Toronto (Lake Ontario), the Laws sailed to Niagara Falls, shipped down the Niagara River toward Buffalo, New York (Lake Erie), across to Cleveland (touring the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame), northwest to the mouth of the Detroit River (enjoying the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Detroit). Then it was northward (across Lake Huron) to Mackinac Island and only waving at Lake Superior. From Mackinac Island, they sailed through the gap between Upper and Lower Michigan into Lake Michigan, with stops in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and terminating the cruise in Chicago, Illinois. Rick and Pariolee remarked on the history of the many lighthouses and shipwreck sites along these turbulent waters. Same ship the entire way on Victory I (Victory Cruise Lines), 200 passengers, 86 crew, great food! They only had to unpack one time! The class readership at-large wonders if they will ever hear from Dave Applin. As of this writing, 539 reservations/deposits are in hand for the Rat Mass of 2027+3. “Summer melt” will undoubtedly winnow that number down to around 499. Matriculation Day is Aug. 15, about the same time you receive this August issue of the Alumni Review. Happy Matriculation Week to the inbound 4th Class; you’ll do just fine! A final housekeeping matter: Many of you should be aware of and have already expressed some level of interest in the spring 2027 mini reunion being planned in St. Augustine, Florida, in late March/ early April. Please know we hope a Florida-centric location will be attractive to the many of you in Florida, the Southeast, and even the mid-Atlantic. Please respond to Bill Terpeluk at (215) 237-2252 or william.terpeluk@gmail.com. As always, Rah Virginia Mil! Humbly and devotedly, I remain, Never above you, never below you, always beside you ... Your Friend, BR, and Dedicated “Swiss Army Knife,” Thomas A. Mason
1976
William Bhatta
Class of 1975: Attending the VMI Legislative Reception in Richmond, Virginia, Feb. 19, 2026, are (from left) Dan Schultz; Chip Louthan; Art Nunn; Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87, superintendent; Tom Sowers ’71; Tom Mason; Al Morgan; John Maples; Ron Norman; and Oliver Way.
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These class notes carry a bittersweet tone. I remember two brother rats we lost, reflect on the lives of two others who recently passed, and celebrate the strength of our class as we attended our 50th Reunion.
VMI Class of 1976 50th Reunion
Class Notes
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Class Notes On March 21, the Virginia War Memorial hosted a Salute to Service honoring Virginia veterans of Desert Shield and Desert Storm. As part of the daylong program, a memorial service was held to remember the seven Virginians killed in action during the conflict, including Maj. Thomas Zeugner. Mike Santoro ’69, the board chair of the Virginia War Memorial Foundation, asked whether a contingent from our class could honor Tom by laying a wreath at his name on the Shrine of Memory. It was our privilege to do so. Jim Mallon, Mike Martino, John Swain, Dick Williams, and I represented the Class of 1976 in paying tribute to Tom. On March 26, John Coleman was interred at Arlington National Cemetery. The ceremony was somber and dignified, honoring John’s life as a husband, father, and Marine. The enduring strength of the BR bond was clearly evident. BRs and guests arrived in such numbers that the ANC staff remarked on the unusually long line of vehicles stacked up in the holding area before the procession moved to the gravesite. Following the interment, attendees gathered at a local pub to continue reflecting on John’s life. Stories were exchanged, and the quiet strength of the BR community surrounded Teri and one another. It was a fitting conclusion to a day marked by respect, remembrance, and the enduring ties of our brotherhood. Unfortunately, on the way home from the Coleman ceremony, I received a call from Clyde Furr informing me that Ed Crews had passed away earlier that afternoon. After I became class agent, Ed told me he did not want his name mentioned in the Alumni Review or in any class correspondence. He preferred to remain distant, and I respected his wishes. Over the years, Mack Curle kept me updated on Clyde, Keith Dickson, and Ed—occasionally with a photo. Whenever Ed appeared in a picture, I cropped him out before using it in the class notes. It always felt a bit strange, but it was what he wanted. There was one exception. Ed attended a Jim Mallon BRC in Richmond in 2017. I was not there, but Mack took a group photo that included Ed. Mack told me Ed approved that picture for the Alumni Review, and I considered that a significant win! About 5 years ago, I began sending Ed birthday cards and included my year-end Alumni Review summaries in his Christmas card. Whether he read them or set them aside, I do not know. But it felt right to continue reaching out in some small way. A funeral service for Ed was held April 6 in the Richmond area, and ’76 was well represented. In attendance were Lee Bradshaw, Ray Brooks, Mack and Paula Curle, Clyde and Mary Furr,
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Rocky Glass, Maury Gatewood, Lee Godsey, Tom Hawthorne, Al and Judy Kinker, Jim and Susan Mallon, Mike Martino, John and Lillian Swain, Kavie Thrift, and Michelle and I. There was a large turnout, a testament to the many lives Ed touched throughout his years. So many people attended that the minister remarked—lightheartedly—that they had run out of service programs! Ed’s son, Clyde, and Ed’s brother each offered thoughtful and moving remarks about their relationship with him. Here is Keith Dickson’s remembrance of Ed: “Ed Crews, in his ever-unique way, emerged as an existentialist Prometheus. Instead of being chained to the rock by the gods, he was chained by an indifferent universe; instead of an eagle, it was fate that would visit to extract its quittance. He had a number of exceptional gifts, but he was suspicious of them, believing they were fate’s way of tempting him to make use of them so as to deny him then of their benefits. His singular manifestation of Prometheus reflected an understanding that individuals exist for themselves and, in turn, make themselves. Throughout his life, Ed Crews made and remade himself—first, as a successful cadet at VMI, then as a skilled and capable Marine artillery officer, and then as a self-taught journalist, who rose to become one of the most respected writers in the business departments of two Richmond newspapers. He finally remade himself as an independent businessman in order to build a bulwark against fate through the accumulation of capital. In this very successful pursuit, he displayed what can only be described as a magnetism that allowed him to employ a set of matchless skills as a master influencer and persuader that were perfectly suited to his business model. His greatest pleasure was to observe how his clients and others followed or reflected his suggestions and prescriptions. As a journalist, he oftentimes displayed the ability to craft a beautiful turn of phrase. He was also a consummate storyteller, often fascinating his listeners with his ability to capture people and events. He greatly enjoyed visiting all the battlefields of the Civil War, major and minor, using his encyclopedic knowledge to explore in immense detail all the events that took place. ... Devoted to his wife and son, he nevertheless approached expressions of love as a curiosity, never fully appreciating its transformative power. Clyde Furr, his 4-year roommate at VMI and his loyal friend throughout, was Ed’s greatest gift. No other man was as trusted, as valued, or as completely accepted as Clyde. Their brotherhood—it can only be described that way—represents what the VMI experience claims to achieve and so often fails to do. Ed has finally been freed from the rock and,
perhaps, has remade himself once again.” Losing a BR before the 50th Reunion is a reminder of why these gatherings matter. Losing a BR the day after the reunion only reinforces that truth. After returning home from Lexington Monday morning, April 27, I received word from Hunt Ozmer that Dave Heatwole had passed away earlier that same morning. The news was stunning. I had spoken with Dave and Eliza on Wednesday afternoon and throughout the reunion, and then, just 24 hours later, he was gone. Like many of you, I take comfort in knowing that his final days were spent among his BRs. Several BRs shared their reflections. From Rocky Glass: “I talked with Dave several times over the reunion, and I remember him telling me about his heart issues, but he was very optimistic that things were in great shape. Surely a great guy whom I was proud to call a brother rat. RIP, Dave.” From Mark Sculley: “I will treasure the many moments I spent with Dave at the reunion. I could not find his rat ID card until Friday evening, so it gave him a chance to keep asking me, ‘Sculley, where’s my badge?!’ each time with a typical Dave Heatwole smile on his face. This and other barracks memories I will keep in my heart.” From Ron LaGrone: “This is the hardest of news. Dave spent great moments with us during the reunion. He was in a wonderful mood and had a superb outlook. Dave and I had plenty of moments as 1st Classmen and BRs. He always held the colors high. I cannot believe he is gone.” From Jim Dittrich: “Very sad, but the best way to go after being with his brothers.” From Mack Curle: “I am shocked. I have no words, only prayers.” From Clyde Furr: “I’m sorry to hear this, but his passing was quick, following a truly wonderful weekend with close friends. I can think of worse ways to go.” From Steven Joyce: “I mistook him for Dick Williams at the Devils Backbone. I kept calling out ‘Dick, Dick.’ We laughed about it. This is a really tough one.” From Ray Ramos: “So very sad, yet I am glad I was able to spend time with him this past weekend.” From Sue Hines: “So tragic. So grateful that he could be with his VMI family and feel that joy.” From Luis Debayle (I paraphrased Luis’ remarks): What sad news. I am in shock over this tragedy. Dave was a super friend and brother rat. He was the one who helped me transition from the Class of ’78 to the Class of ’76, offering me his room when I arrived as a transfer student for my junior and senior years. I was so grateful. I have many fond memories from those years. During
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Class of 1976 1. Enjoying the 50th Reunion honored class supper at Marshall Hall are (from left) Bill Favier, Jim Joustra, Rocky Glass, Scott Custer, and Jim Brown.
LaGrone, Curt Reppart, and Mark Sculley.
2. At Outpost 1839 during the 50th Reunion class social are (from left) Jay Foertsch, Libbie Gatewood, Chris Wall, Dan Rivera, and Maury Gatewood.
6. Gathering at Grigg and Cindy Mullen’s home during the 50th Reunion social are (from left) Jerry Eggleston, Dave Bass, Dave Heatwole, J.P. Kennedy, Hunt Ozmer, and George Hitt.
3. At the reunion parade are (from left) Jim Martin, Kent Carrington, and Bob Cox.
7. John Street, Dave Bass, Steph Savage, and Dick Williams at the reunion parade.
4. Tony Young, Phil Brzozowski, and Ken Williams at the reunion parade.
8. Attending the 50th Reunion clay shooting are (from left) Billy Karnes, Paul Parker, Grigg Mullen, Bob Cox, Ken Williams, Ian Fergusson, Ray Ramos, John Swain, Ray Brooks, and Jim Brown.
5. Gathering before the class Old Yells in Old Barracks are (from left) Ron
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Class Notes that time, he met Eliza, and we had a small getaway where I saw that relationship begin to bloom. It is incredible that he came back for the 50th Reunion and spent time with his BRs. He cherished VMI. He is now enjoying eternal peace in heaven. I am deeply saddened and regret that I could not attend the reunion. I will always remember our friendship and the times we shared. This loss has hit me with such sadness. Even as we mourn the loss of our BRs, our 50th Reunion reminded us of the strength and spirit of the Class of ’76. We had a tremendous turnout: 125 BRs and 85 guests gathered in Lexington over a 4-day period from April 23–26, 2026. The entire time was filled with laughter, shared memories, and the unmistakable pride of returning to VMI together. Before I describe the reunion, I want to take this opportunity to thank the 50th Reunion Planning Committee: Mack Curle, Dyke Davies, Jim Dittrich, Bill Favier, Rocky Glass, Duff Joseph, Jim Mallon, Mike Martino, Al McCarthy, Grigg Mullen, Alan Pyke, Ray Ramos, Curt Reppart, Kavie Thrift, Garry Varney, Evan Haberman, and Charlie Keen. They did a fantastic job, and their hard work showed in every detail of the weekend. I know they’re all going to miss my monthly Zoom reunion planning meetings! Michelle and I began our reunion preparations on Wednesday afternoon by setting up the hospitality room at the Best Western Hunt Ridge Hotel. The first BRs we met there were Maury Gatewood and Dave and Eliza Heatwole. Several others arrived later that afternoon to be ready for the golf tournament the following morning. That evening, Michelle and I had supper with J.R. Mott. As it turned out, Ian Fergusson was seated at a nearby table. I hadn’t seen Ian since graduation. His white hair and beard were enough to throw me off, so neither of us recognized the other at the time, at least not until we recognized each other the following evening. Thursday’s schedule was intentionally light, anticipating that many BRs and guests would be arriving throughout the afternoon. Earlier that morning, Dyke Davies and Dexter Gilliam organized the traditional reunion golf tournament at Ashley Plantation Country Club in Daleville, just north of Roanoke. A great crowd of BRs rallied to play: Ray Brooks, Dyke Davies, Maury Gatewood, Dexter Gilliam, Rocky Glass, Jim Mallon, Lang and Molly Meem, Buzzy Moncure, J.R. Mott (with his cheap clubs), Hunt Ozmer, Rand Sompayrac, Mike and Stephanie Tate, and Kavie Thrift. I understand the competition was tough, but the winner of the coveted Class of 1976 reunion golf trophy was Rocky Glass!
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Several BRs and guests took advantage of the Lexington Carriage Company rides through downtown Lexington Thursday. There’s a surprising amount to learn on one of these tours. I learn something every time I take a ride. Historic Lexington just wasn’t exactly on my radar when we were attending VMI! The highlight Thursday was the class social for our early reunion arrivals, graciously hosted by Cindy and Grigg Mullen at their home. Over the years, Grigg and Cindy have created what can only be described as an informal event space on their property—an impressive and remarkably well-designed facility. I anticipated 40–50 guests, but we ended up with 115! Even with that crowd, they handled everything without the slightest hitch. A heartfelt thanks to Grigg and Cindy and to the Lexington ’76 team who helped make it all happen: Evan and Margaret Haberman, Charlie and Betsy Keen, and Teri Coleman. The setting, the hospitality, and the chance to reconnect with BRs and guests made it a perfect way to start the reunion weekend. Friday was a busy day for everyone—or not, if you chose to take it slow. For those who jumped in, the day offered a full slate of activities. Margaret Haberman, Teri Coleman, Betsy Keen, and Cindy Mullen hosted a guests’ and wives’ brunch at the Habermans’ home. Others headed to Staunton for a morning of shooting clays with Grigg Mullen. And Evan Haberman led a walking tour through Lexington, sharing stories and history as only he can. By midday, many of us gathered at the Devils Backbone Brewery just north of town on Highway 11 for lunch and fellowship. Afterward, several of you attended the Cadet Leadership Panel at Marshall Hall. I heard that during the Q&A, an alumnus stood up and introduced himself by saying, “My dad is from the Class of 1976,” and posed a question to the panel. There were a few quizzical looks in the ’76 BR audience. Yes, that was my son, David Bhatta ’06, who was also back in town celebrating his 20th Reunion. That afternoon, Rocky Glass and I hightailed it out of Lexington to Outpost 1839 in Buena Vista to get everything set for our next class social. Rocky had coordinated three local vineyards— Above Ground Winery from Middlebrook, Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery from Raphine, and Ox-Eye Vineyards from Staunton—to join us. All three showcased their wines, offered tastings, and made bottles available for purchase. It was a tremendous success. It encouraged everyone to come out to Outpost 1839 earlier, enjoy the wine, and spend more time catching up with one another. There was one regrettable incident on Friday. Dave Bass dropped and shattered his 50th
Reunion–engraved bottle of Woodford Reserve bourbon. After a proper mourning period, Dave recovered admirably, and I replaced his bottle with one of the extra ones I had ordered—just in case someone needed one. Along those lines, a special thanks goes out to Kavie Thrift, our Woodford Reserve coordinator-in-charge. We ordered 204 bottles, or 34 cases, from Woodford Reserve. That’s a lot of bourbon, and at 110 proof, it’s something to sip wisely! After Kavie picked the cases up from Virginia ABC to have the bottles engraved, I told him to drive slowly and avoid any bumps in the road. The traditional reunion activities were scheduled Saturday with a few new twists. The day started early with BRs, wives, and guests visiting our rat rooms. It took special coordination to make it happen, but the commandant’s office approved the event, and I am grateful they did. Some BRs were surprised to discover their old rooms had been converted into shower rooms, while others hadn’t seen their rooms since the renovations several years ago. John Dorsey, Mark Swank, and I visited Room 422. We’ve made a point of stopping by during the past several reunions, and for the last 2 years, I’ve even been sending special cookie box deliveries from a local bakery to the cadets living there—signed, of course, from “The Class of 1976 Room 422 Alumni.” We had the opportunity to meet the current 4th Class occupants, and they seemed very squared away. We charged them with a simple mission: Visit their rat room every time they return for a reunion to keep the tradition alive. Next, we lined up for the class photo in front of Preston Library. I am anxious to see how the picture turned out. It was a little snug trying to squeeze everyone into the frame. I’m not saying some of us have gained a little weight over the years, but there were 122 of us trying to fit onto a small set of steps. It was a tight formation, but we made it work— and the laughter alone was worth the effort. The parade followed, and I had the privilege of standing with Dexter Gilliam and Ray Ramos in front of the Corps of Cadets alongside the superintendent to present the Class of 1976’s 50th Reunion campaign gift of $12,101,019.76 to VMI. Earlier, I told Meade King ’85 from the VMI Foundation that I would donate whatever it took to make sure the final total ended in $19.76! Imagine that! My sincere thanks to everyone who participated in the campaign effort, and special thanks to Ray Ramos for serving as our 50th Reunion campaign chairman. Participation was always more important than the final amount, but I’ll admit I was hoping we would break the $12 million mark. There was a surge of BR participation right up to the final week before the reunion, including a pledge form
Class Notes completed Friday afternoon just before the presen- The highlight of the evening was our guest speak- Special thanks to Susan Karnes for volunteering tation check was finalized. That last-minute push er, Jim Dittrich. He spoke about past VMI heroes, to play the piano during the service. There are many others to thank. Mark Sculley helped put us over the top and made the moment our life at VMI during the ’70s, and many of the professors we encountered during our tenure at provided all the rat-picture nametag add-ons for on the Parade Ground one we will all remember. everyone. I’m not sure they helped us recognize We marched into Old Barracks for the reunion VMI. The 50th Reunion jubilee service was held Sun- each other, but it was certainly entertaining to look Old Yells. After watching the younger classes climb to the top of the sentinel box to deliver their day morning in Memorial Hall and proved to be a around the room and see what we all looked like yells, Dexter was ready to climb, but he decided he thoughtful and well-organized gathering. It gave us 50 years ago. Bill Favier handcrafted the coaster should use the steps. It seemed like a long way up, a quiet moment to reflect on our deceased BRs and sets you received. They were impressive; when I and I’m not entirely sure what the load capacity is the impact each had on our class over the years. saw the prototype, I was amazed at his craftsmanon top of that box, but we had quite a crew ready to Sue Hines opened the program with a prayer, fol- ship. And for the 13 of you who thought you’d lead our yells: Myself, Teri Coleman, Dexter Gil- lowed by remembrance messages from Razz Waff been handed cremated remains in your coastliam, Frank Delaine, and Ken Williams proudly and Teri Coleman. Billy Karnes and Mack Cur- er package sent through the mail ... well, I don’t le shared powerful messages of redemption, and know what to tell you except to share this exwaving the ’76 Bennington Flag. Dexter Gilliam closed with an uplifting call to change between Bill and his wife. Lois: “Did you From Old Barracks, ’76 and ’26 made their way down to Memorial Garden below the parapet. The “forward march” with faith and hope. The most package up and mail those 13 VMI coaster sets to memorable part of the service was the lighting the guys who weren’t at the reunion?” Bill: “Yep, mission was to get a Class of 2026 photo, then a joint picture with ’76 and ’26. Unbelievably, the of the memorial candles—one for each deceased just got back from the post office.” Lois: “What BR—with each candle lit by a volunteer attend- did you pad them with?” Bill: “I used some bubgraduating class never gets a true 1st Class photo. They take one as 4th Class cadets after Break- ing the service. Later, a video presentation honor- ble wrap that was out in the garage.” Lois: “Did it out, but nothing during their 1st Class year. Now, ing every lost BR was narrated by Frank Delaine. have blue writing on it?” Bill: “Yeah, it was some the Class of 2026 has something rare: A proper 1st Together, these elements created a fitting tribute to sort of advertisement. I really didn’t pay any atClass photo taken at one of the most meaningful the classmates we came to remember. Thanks to tention.” Lois: “Well, you should have! They the Jubilee Service Committee for organizing the were from the box your brother’s ashes came in, spots on post, shoulder to shoulder with their BRs. Saturday’s lunch was served at Crozet, above service: Ray Brooks, Marshall Coyle, Mack Cur- and the blue printing said, ‘cremated remains!’” the main dining hall, but it was planned with a le, Frank Delaine, Jim Dittrich, Dexter Gilliam, Bill: “Oops!” And last but certainly not least, MiBilly Karnes, Razz Waff, and Garry Varney. chelle and I want to thank everyone for the generunique twist. It was sponsored by our dykes from ous and thoughtful gifts we received the Class of 1979. The idea came Saturday evening. It was completefrom Chappy Lucas ’79, who ly unnecessary, but we were deepapproached me about hosting a ly touched and appreciated it more combined 50th Reunion lunch than you know. with our dyke class. This was the On Sunday at brunch at Crozet, first time such a joint luncheon Billy Karnes asked me what my had ever been done, and I hope favorite reunion event was. At it becomes a standard event for the time, it was hard to give him a every future 50th Reunion class. straight answer. In retrospect, there Sharing that time with the Class wasn’t just one. I genuinely enjoyed of ’79 added meaning, connecthe chance for BRs and guests to tion, and a sense of continuity that ask questions during the Corps of made the lunch truly special. Cadets panel on Friday, as well as Saturday evening, everyone atClass of 1976: Andy Stewart, Mack Curle, and John Backe. the opportunity to listen to—and tended the VMI Alumni Agenpose questions to—Lt. Gen. Furcies 50th Reunion dinner honorness Saturday. It’s always better to ing the Class of 1976. Lt. Gen. hear things directly from the horse’s Furness ’87 spoke to us briefly mouth. But if I’m honest, my favorbefore dinner, and we presented ite event was all of them, because him with his very own bottle of I was able to watch everyone have Class of 1976 Woodford Reserve fun, swap stories, reconnect, and bourbon with his name engraved get to know each other again. That’s on the back. I am told he will what made the weekend special. put it to effective use as he faces Based on your feedback, I think the everyday challenges at VMI. our 50th Reunion was a success We raffled the 1976 banners that and a meaningful milestone for were hanging from Moody Hall, the Class of ’76. The turnout, the sang “Happy Birthday” to Chris Class of 1976: Kevin Pardus, Rory Walsh, Ray Ramos, and Mark Havelin beevents, and—most of all—the Wall and Mark Swank, and just fore the reunion parade April 25, 2026. In the background is Hunt Ozmer. time spent together reminded us of enjoyed each other’s company. 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes the strength of the bonds formed half a century ago. We left Lexington with full hearts, renewed friendships, and a deep appreciation for the brotherhood that continues to define our class. The spirit of ’76 remains strong, and I hope you look forward to the next time we gather. With that in mind: I declare the 2026 Class of 1976 50th Reunion closed. In accordance with tradition, I call upon all BRs and their guests to assemble 5 years from now in Lexington, Virginia, to celebrate our 55th Reunion in 2031!
1977
Steve Kelly
Greetings, Super ’77! I am writing these notes in late April. Hopefully, spring is finally here after a couple of false starts. It has been a busy spring for me, as I went on a mission trip with my church to Cuba and then came back for my second total knee replacement. Mission trip was awesome as usual (well, maybe not so good on the electricity part in the country), but the folks there in the retirement center/churches we worked with are wonderful Christians. The knee replacement is taking me a little bit longer to bounce back from this time—guess that is what happens when you get old. Our next big class events are coming up Friday, Sept. 5, and Saturday, Sept. 6, at VMI. First up that Friday is the annual VMI Memorial Golf Tournament to be played at The Club of Staunton. Please email Tommy Cole at TCole77@aol.com for more information. Following the Friday golf tournament is our mini reunion Saturday. The format is the same as last year with the tailgate brunch on the Parade Ground, football game, and class dinner at Devils Backbone. They did a great job for us last year and are looking forward to our return. The only downside to Devils Backbone is that we are space limited to 40 folks, so RSVP early! I will have more information with costs in the next month or two. Please plan to attend! As we approach our 50th, I wanted to give you some choices for giving which can count toward our 50th Reunion check to VMI. All of the giving our class has made since the 45th will be included in this 50th check. Just to let you know, the class has three ’77 endowments—an unrestricted, a ’77 Memorial Scholarship (our own class scholarship that supports a cadet based on financial need), and a ’77 Athletic. In addition, the Alumni Agencies
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maintains a list of agencies/scholarships you can give to in order to support VMI. Some of these include the Alumni Class Ring Fund which helps those in the Class of ’27 (our Pass in Review class) who cannot afford their VMI rings. There is also a Col. Buchanan ’50B Memorial Scholarship established in his honor. One other relatively new scholarship is the Call to Duty Scholarship. This scholarship helps 3- and 4-year ROTC scholarship recipients pay costs not covered in the ROTC scholarship. I would encourage you to take a look and see if there is an endowment, scholarship, or agency at VMI you feel comfortable supporting before the 50th. We want to make sure super ’77 sets a good example in giving for our 50th Reunion. Please see the caption of Mark Bryant and Kimber Latsha at a scholarship recognition dinner with our class scholarship recipient, Cadet William Lauerman ’25. William is the nephew of and named for our BR Dewey. Cadet Lauerman will graduate in May and commission next summer in the USMC. On a sad note, two of our brother rats have passed away since the last set of class notes. Most recently, Tim Snyder passed away in his sleep April 23. Tim was an amazing guy who will be sorely missed by his family, brother rats, and all who knew him. There will be more about Tim’s memorial service and his After Taps in the next edition of the Alumni Review. Our Brother Rat Jay Phillips passed away Feb. 17. Jay left after our rat year but was fondly remembered by his roommates and all those who knew him. Please keep these families in your thoughts and prayers. The next set of class notes is due in August. I look forward to news and pictures from brother rats, including updates on “Moon’s” first annual brother rat summer camp in Goshen. In the meantime, start planning now for April 2027 and our 50th Reunion. Hopefully, in the next edition of the Alumni Review, I will have additional information for you. In the meantime, stay safe out there this summer! Hope to see many of you at the mini in September. Tick
1978
Tom Brown
Hello, BRs and Friends of the Class! As these notes are compiled, spring is well
underway and proving to be a great relief as compared to the unpleasantness of winter ’25–26. I am hoping all are well and enjoying life. Hard to believe that our 50th Reunion is fast approaching. Here is the latest news from around the class. Chris Stone: “Status check is ‘all right.’ Still enjoying retirement.” Jim Simons: “Barracks Room 141 held its second annual mini reunion in late April at the home of Steve Thompson in Augusta, Georgia. All were present: Steve Thompson, Dwight Weirich, Ken Blythe, and myself. The gathering kicked off with dinner with C Company commander Mike Eaton, who graciously arranged for a golf outing at his country club later in the week. A successful fishing trip for striped bass on Clarks Hill Lake and a day of trap shooting and sporting clays filled out the itinerary. A wonderful time was had by all. Next year, Florida! The alumni trap shooters assembled at McKissick Farm at Amelia Court House for our spring shoot Saturday, March 14. It was an absolutely beautiful day, and everyone had a great time shooting and socializing at the post-event BBQ. It was a pleasure to see that all of our shooters are gaining in proficiency, especially the less experienced members. The ’78 contingent included Ken Blythe, Jay Hutt, Bob Jenvey, Mark McKissick, and Jim Simons. Also attending were Don Calder ’88, Chuck Nelson ’88, Bill Reagan ’88, Mike Meads ’94, Reynolds Short ’24, and Grant Andrews ’24. Anyone interested in joining us for future shoots is encouraged to contact Jim Simons for details. No shotgun or shotgun shooting experience is required.” Greg Gearhart reported that for his 70th birthday, he ran the Arizona Sedona Canyons 125. Amazing story! John Tucker: “All right in Columbus, Ohio.” Mark Seely: “Things are good in San Francisco. Rosemary and I are still traveling a bit; just finished a great trip to Rapa Nui, Antarctica, and Patagonia.” Alec Earle: “All is well here in Las Vegas, and we are getting ready for the summer heat. In April, I attended the spring meeting of the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees. Moody Hall is now fenced off, and demolition will start soon in preparation for the new facility. The VMI Foundation, Keydet Club, and Alumni Association are now housed in various buildings around town for the foreseeable future. I saw BRs Glenn Dallinger and Stu Gitchell briefly at Friday’s parade and ran into BR Don Robey at a local restaurant. Lexington seems to be flourishing.” Rick Wetherell: “All right!” Bob Longwell: “All great in Florida. Retirement
Class Notes is great. Don’t have to run the block to have fun anymore.” Paul Campbell: “All right!” Les Shimanek: “Attended the 50th anniversary of the New Market march. What a joy. All good.” Bill McCampbell: “We are doing fine here in South Carolina, still doing a bit of traveling. We did head over to see the VMI Pipe and Drum unit at the Savannah Highland Games May 2. They were great, despite the rainy weather!” Dave Gray: “Nothing noteworthy, still on the top side of the grass.” Rick Wolffe: “Not sure if it was announced at last weekend’s Alumni Association meeting; I was appointed the historian for the Alumni Association to fill the post of Jim Dittrich ’76, who has retired after many admirable years of service to VMI. Hope to be able to fill Jim’s big shoes.” Ned Reister: “After 30 years at ‘Mother I,’ I retired and moved to Pennsylvania teaching at Lehigh University. They made me full professor and associated chair of the CE department.” Jimmy Leech: “Well, I have a little news. I recently agreed to serve as the president of the Third Coast Chapter of the VMI Alumni Association, which covers Texas from just north of Corpus Christi down to the Rio Grande Valley, the Mexican border. We have about 30 names on our chapter list and plan to have a little get-together on New Market Day. Also, my wife and I spent about 10 days in Virginia in late April/early May. We spent quite a bit of time in Lexington visiting my sister, widow of George M. Brooke III ’67, and nephew, George M. Brooke IV ’94, professor of physics at VMI, and were able to visit the Alumni Association offices temporarily in the Marshall Library in preparation for the replacement of Moody Hall and take in a parade. It was a reunion weekend with ’76 being the honored class. We also spent a very pleasant 24 hours or so with
Class of 1978: Charlie Alphin, Keith Barber, Stu Gitchell, Glen Dallinger, Don Robey, and Bob Eagle at breakfast in Lexington, Virginia.
Class of 1978: Ronnie Milligan, Steve Oddi, Jerry Harris, and Barbara Grove in Sintra, Portugal.
Class of 1978: Class of 1978 at the New Market dinner.
Brion and Judy Smith. I’m happy to report that all are well, and the old place looks pretty good. Love those bagpipes!” Ronnie Milligan: “Brother Rats Milligan, Oddi, Harris, and Barbara Grove reporting in from Sintra, Portugal. Having a great time with many toasts to our Grooveman.” Kevin Callanan: “All OK in the Northern Valley.” Bob Eagle: “The Lexington BRs are still having BRC at IHOP every Thursday at 8 a.m. The invitation is open to all BRs who are in town then.” Rob Traver: “Had a very interesting vacation trip to Jordan with my wife. The second day there, at a Roman city outside Amman, we heard loud booms, black clouds in the distance, and then air-raid sirens. Back to Desert Storm. Took a lot of finagling with the airlines to get out, as our routes through Doha were closed. The embassy just advised us to leave—not very helpful. We got in most of our trip, and the hospitality of the people of Jordan was amazing. For some reason, Petra was not crowded, great time to see it. Strongly recommend visiting Jordan, but not while missiles are flying overhead.” Joe Bright: “All right in Salt Lake City. Ursula and I celebrated my 70th birthday in Tuscany, Italy. Stayed in a small commune called Castelmuzzio—beautiful countryside. Both of us are blessed with excellent health. Super interesting trip to South Africa in January. Fully retired now, left my part-time Breeze Airways Airbus 220-300 simulator instructor job at the end of February. Doing prison ministry at the Utah State Prison. Hello to all.” John Lach: “Retired life is good in Columbus, Ohio.” Mark Lambert: “All right in St. Charles, Illinois. Finally getting some spring weather here. Not much new—looking forward to a Florida vacation in June, first time in years I get all three of 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes my kids together on Father’s Day! Can’t wait for that fun; I will bring good sunscreen!” Cliff Seibel: “Greetings from Christmas City, North Pole, Alaska. Still here. Spring is late coming but snow is almost all gone. Best to all of our BRs. Hope everyone has a great summer. The way things are going, we’ll see summer somewhere around the 4th or 5th of July!” Mark Lowe: “All right here! Getting ready to head back over to Germany to visit family. Going to put my DUO German to the test; I have to stay ahead of the grandkids as they start learning German on their own. Just ran into Burt Loflin this evening and had a good time catching up. All the best to everyone.” Leland Horn: “All OK here. Getting ready for storm season.” Steve Craig: “Nothing exciting to report from San Antonio. All is well.” Bruce Kay: “Everything is all right here! Glad that warm weather is returning so I can spend time at the neighborhood pool and even more time with my granddaughter. Planning two cruises this summer, including Greece and a river cruise along the Rhine and Main Rivers.” Terry Dorn: “All good.” Dave Mecredy: “Spring has arrived in Minnesota once again. I know it was risky, but I took down the snow fence last weekend. Last month, I had the pleasure of accompanying my grandson, Kenny Zimmerman, to the VMI Legacy Day April 11. Kenny is 15 and a competitive swimmer, as was his great-grandfather, Jim Mecredy ’52. It was a beautiful day, and the cadet staff did a great job. While passing through Roanoke from the airport, I stopped to see my grandmother’s house at 24th and Jefferson. I was reminded that Dave Schuyler ’75 lived just a few doors down on Jefferson. Kenny and I took a walk and found Uncle Dave sitting on the porch. I met Dave at my grandmother’s house a few days before I matriculated. He set me up with his roommate, Eddie Spain ’75, to be my dyke. It was good to see him again and introduce him to my grandson.” Tom English: “All right in Draper, Utah. Enjoying retirement, traveling, and spending time with grandkids.” Bill Robertson: “In April, Nancy and I, along with our daughter, her husband, and two grandchildren, went to Europe. We basically split our time between Paris and London. We celebrated our granddaughter’s birthday in Paris and attended Easter service at the Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris. We took the Eurostar train from Paris to London. We did a lot of walking each day in Paris and London.” Don Hogg: “All OK.”
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Jim Mackin: “Spent a great weekend in Lexington recently! I was there to attend the Valley Chapter New Market dinner, at which they recognized the 50th anniversary of our 1976 New Market march reenactment. Met up with my tentmate on that march, Bill Lowe, and Glenn Dallinger was kind enough to host us at his house Friday through Sunday. Glenn, Bill, and I met up with Bob Eagle, Don Robey, Jack Barnhill, and Tim Moriarty for dinner Friday night, and Glenn, Bill, Jack, Tim, John Whitmer, Red Shimanek, and I all enjoyed the New Market dinner. It was good to see everyone! I was also impressed with what I saw on post; the new superintendent and commandant have the Corps looking good and feeling good. Spoke to several cadets who were
Class of 1978: Paul Mitchell and Tim Pishdad at Port Canaveral, Florida.
Class of 1978: Dave Mecredy and grandson Kenny Zimmerman in Lexington, Virginia, for Legacy Day.
very happy with the change!” Tom Tucker: “I am still working and living large in Warrenton. One pint of good beer for any BR who drives through Warrenton, Virginia; second pint is on you!” Ed Little: “‘All right’ from the Little family. Enjoy watching the grandchildren playing ball and volunteer activities at church and in the community.” Paul Mitchell: “Thanks to the enormous generosity and hospitality of Tim Pishdad; his wife, Cynthia; Tim’s older brother, retired Navy SEAL Lieutenant Commander Amir Pishdad Jr.; and their father, Amir Sr., all of Melbourne, Florida, my 10-year-old daughter, Eva, and I had the most exciting Central Florida spring break vacation of our lives. My late parents were close friends with Mr. and Mrs. Amir Pishdad Sr.; Tim and Amir Jr. are like cousins to me, except closer. Tim and Cynthia greeted us at the Winter Park Amtrak station and took us to Sea World. Later in the week, they took Eva to the Brevard Zoo. Amir Sr. took us to the Navy SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce. Amir Jr. took us to the Kennedy Space Center and to Magic Kingdom. The trip absolutely blew my daughter’s mind. She came back home a different and more mature girl. Lastly, on the morning of our Amtrak departure, the Pishdads and Mitchells attended a launch observation gathering at Cape Canaveral Park organized by my high school schoolmate, Carlton Bailee, who has been a space program photographer for the past 41 years. His photo of the Artemis II launch was the cover of Aviation Week magazine during the week of our visit. We are planning another Central Florida spring break epic adventure for 2027. “Jay Hutt and I were honored to be invited by Pastor Glen Lutz, the Virginia state co-coordinator of the National Day of Prayer Task Force, to be prayer leaders at the National Day of Prayer Ceremony held at the Bell Tower on Richmond’s Capitol Square Thursday, May 7. The recognition of the National Day of Prayer was actually passed into federal law in 1988 thanks to the efforts of Reverend Billy Graham and President Reagan. I was asked to portray Reverend Frank Stringfellow (1840–1913), who, by coincidence, I have long described as the Billy Graham of his era. I was assigned to pray for the church universal. Jay was assigned to pray for business. Jay and I really enjoyed this memorable and unique experience. “I am an active volunteer in Red Lane Baptist Church’s firewood ministry. In 2025, 130 pickup truckloads of free firewood were supplied to needy, qualified households! My forte is to split big, heavy logs into quarters using my sledgehammer and wedges, so that the quarters can later be
Class Notes to do when they visit Virginia Beach. The most enjoyable part of the visit was sitting around a fire on their back patio recounting Old Corps stories, which get better with each passing year! Overall, it was a fantastic weekend spent with lifelong friends who bonded more than 50 years ago. Rah Virginia Mil!” John Colonna wrote, “Teresa and I have a praise. Our oldest son, John, and his wife, Morgan, just welcomed their second child into the world Feb. 17, 2026. John Owen Colonna IV weighed in at a whopping 11 pounds, 1 ounce.” It is interesting to note the family lineage of John Owen Colonna I ’922, John Owen Colonna II, John Owen Colonna III, and now John Owen Colonna IV (a future member of the VMI Class of 2048?). Bill Albro reported, in writing, “It’s been a busy few months, and we all could use some gentle rain. Dean Smith and I went to Oklahoma on a wild boar hunting trip the beginning of March. We saw the varmints once on the first day at dusk but nary another sighting. Oh, well, it was a great place to hang out, listen to old guys talk trash, shoot guns, eat well, and all that kind of stuff. It was even an adventure driving out there and back.” Bill further Howard “Chappy” Lucas wrote that Dean has been working on his various real estate things, as well as doing a little part-time consulting. Bill added that they have been working on the September Key West BR diving trip, as well as the grand BR dive expedition to Truk in JanuClass of 1979: Gathering in front of a picture of John Owen Colonna I ’922 in Norary 2027. After returning from their hunting trip, BRs, folk, Virginia, in February 2026 are (from Bill and Dean visited Rob and Debbie Maxey for I trust these class notes find you and your famleft) John Owen Colonna III holding John a few hours to catch up. ily well. Before turning to class notes, I wanted Owen Colonna IV with John Owen ColonBill added, “Barbara and I had lunch with Glenn to make sure you were aware that we have startna II. and Susan Higgins in Charleston, South Carolina, ed issuing a supplement to the class notes found at the end of April. They were in the Alumni Review. This supdoing a bit of traveling on the East plement, distributed to the class Coast, and it was easy to meet them via email, allows for the sharing and walk around the market area of pictures I receive that exceed downtown. It was great catching up the Alumni Review’s five-picture on their adventures.” limit for each class. Bill reported, “I somehow got Turning to class notes, Eric included in a text stream discussing Schwarz reported in having worthless nonsense with Rob just returned from a Viking RivPatterson, Brad Jones, and Meade er Cruise to Spain and Portugal. Spotts. I can tell you that they Eric wrote, “It was a fabulous hold each other in dubious regard trip that we would do again. Our as evident by the accolades they final 2 days were in Santiago de address each other with. Funny Compostela, Spain, which is the how lifelong friendships can lead final destination of all the various that way.” Bill also sent that John routes of the famous El Camino Arthur checked in with him. All is (The Way) pilgrimage and hikwell with John, as he keeps busy and ing trails. As a result of this stop, Class of 1979: Attending the second annual outing at the Green Knob is having fun at Lake Gaston. we are now seriously considering Hunting Camp, West Virginia, April 14–16, 2026, are (front, from left) Eric Bill had talked with Dan Sheahan, making our own El Camino jourSchwarz, Rich McGruder, Frank Jester, Anthony Pais, (back) Phil Andrews, as Dan was going back west through ney in the future.” Tom Manley, John Poffenbarger, and Chappy Lucas. Nashville. Dan had just finished I heard from Tom Baltazar, lifted onto log splitters without risking the lifters to suffer a back injury or a hernia. Half of the ministry’s volunteers are older than me. Some are in their early 80s. These volunteers are truly inspirational men of God. They really know trees and the characteristics of wood. The fellowship of working with them in this firewood ministry is a great blessing and has enriched my life. “Thanks for your prayers. Ever since starting chemotherapy last May, my cancer (metastatic carcinoma) has not spread nor grown. We are keeping the cancer at bay. As we used to say in the trucking industry, we will keep on keeping on.” That concludes the latest from around the class, 36 BRs checked in, and many contacts with BRs reported, great! Stay in touch with each other and keep in mind the 50th is not that far away. Start saving that change and keep your contact information up to date. In the Spirit, Tom/EZ Bear
who sent, “Karen and I were blessed to spend last weekend with three of our BRs, Mark Byrd, Dave Jeter, and Jeb Burton, and their wives, Rhonda, Cindy, and Betsy, respectively, at Virginia Beach. Mark and Rhonda were gracious hosts in their newly renovated home in Bay Colony. We took advantage of the absolutely beautiful weather with a round of golf at Princess Anne Country Club while the girls shopped. As always, Jeb showed us what the game was supposed to look like while the rest of us struggled to keep our shots in the fairway. They also arranged for a mixology class at Waterman Spirits, where we mixed and drank vodka-based craft cocktails that were amazing. I give it two thumbs up and recommend it to any BRs who are looking for something interesting and fun
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Class Notes diving with Greg Quinn a few days earlier and had attended the DRC with our ’76 dykes at VMI the weekend before that. Per Bill, “Greg has a great reef not far from his home, so they were able to explore and get some dive time in seeing reef things.” Bill further reported, “Barbara and I have gotten together with Reggie and Linda Sadler several times over the past few months. I have been playing golf with Reggie about once a month on various courses down here. We always have a great time even if we can’t hit them very well.” Bill closed with “Got my annual physical and dermatology check done at the VA in Beaufort Naval Hospital. I am good to go for another year. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, exercise, and plenty of hydration continue to be the standing orders of the day!” Frank Jester checked in and reported that in addition to his daughter getting married last October, his son was married May 9, 2026. Frank also wrote that in March 2026, he had a wonderful visit with retired professor of history, Col. Tom Davis ’64, and wife Helen at their home in Newport News, Virginia. I heard from Jim Elliott, who sent, “First, I’ve really enjoyed reconnecting with BRs in our class’ monthly prayer calls. Bottom line, they’re good for the soul, and I appreciate the effort that both Al Soltis and Randy Atkins have put into the calls to make them meaningful for all those that are able to participate. Second, it’s spring gobbler season in Virginia, and I’ve been in hot pursuit of a respectable bird under the guidance and expertise of Brad Jones. No bounty to brag about yet, but I’m
Class of 1979: Mike and Leigha Vela at the top of the Island of Capri, Italy, November 2025.
Class of 1979: Jeff Minnix (left) and Grey Farthing in Columbia, South Carolina, March 9, 2026.
Class of 1979: Attending DRC with their ’76 dykes at VMI April 25, 2026, (front, from left) Mark Cheek, Dean Smith, Glenn Higgins, Chappy Lucas, Tom Manley, Pete Underwood, Anthony Pais, Ed Johnson, (back) John Brown, Dan Sheahan, Carter McCrowell, John Poffenbarger, John Colonna, and Ray Duffett. Not pictured are Steve White, John Hash, Dave Crawford, Ed Buck, Howard Adams, Jan Higginbotham, John Carty, and Al Soltis.
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optimistic that we’ll ultimately be successful. Until then, I say without reservation that the hunting is exciting, and the BS is nonstop! Best to all!” Checking in from Colorado was Bob Sievert. Bob wrote that he finally fully retired Aug. 1, 2025, and he and Angela have really embraced retirement with a lot of fun travels. Their travels so far include Halloween in New Orleans, a group trip to Las Vegas, and a family trip to Virginia, and they just got back home from a 13-day, 3,560-mile motorhome trip that took them from Colorado to South Padre Island, Texas, to Galveston Island, Texas, to Biloxi, Mississippi, and finally to Pensacola, Florida. In addition, Bob wrote that still to come is a 12-day July cruise from Tahiti to Hawaii. Bob added, “Of course, none of us fully quit our professional life, so I joined the board of directors of our little community of about 2,200 residents to try and help. So as of right now, we are loving retirement, and summer is yet to come. Will be getting my motorcycle and Jeep out for some mountain fun, then who knows what we’ll come up with for the fall and winter!” Jim Harrington sent that he and Sarah are well there in Virginia Beach. They have been working on a big home renovation project since May 2025. Their contractor calls their project a “retirement in place!” Mike Vela wrote, “In November last year, Leigha and I took a trip of a lifetime to Italy. Our trip included 5 days on the island of Capri, followed by 7 days on the Amalfi Coast in the city of Atrani, where ‘Equalizer 3’ was filmed. The trip was unbelievable—the food, the churches, the shopping, and the people were outstanding. We wanted a low-key type of experience, and we got exactly what we wanted. Lots of walking, eating, and relaxing. We recommend both locations if you don’t care for huge crowds and seeing the typical sites of Italy.” Keith Ranker checked in, reporting, “Doing a bit better each day, praise God!” Keith added that the worst damage from his recent stroke is being a lot more cross-eyed. Keith was told by his doctor that he has been cross-eyed for many years, with it being detected only 5 years ago. Keith wrote, “I think it may explain the many stupid mistakes on tests in my engineering and some in my math courses!” Keith continues to be on his diet, having lost 92 pounds in 13 months. Keith reported that he keeps in touch with John Kailey, Stan Ballard, Mike Weatherholtz, and George Myers. Ben Bauman wrote, “Tracy and I are doing pretty well after a rough year-and-a-half. We lost my mother, her father, and my sister. My last contract with SAIC runs out this summer, and I will be happily retiring in July. Working from home has
Class Notes made it pretty easy these past 6 years and allowed us to take care of my mother and sister.” Ben further wrote that Tracy is retiring from full-time work and may work part-time. He added, “We have increased our travel schedule to include going out West, visiting Colorado, Utah, and Nevada, in addition to our usual trips to Hilton Head and the Caribbean.” Ben added that they travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas and St. Johns) about every year, as they enjoy going there. They have been looking at moving from Peachtree City, Georgia, to somewhere along the coast and into a single-floor house. Ben also reported that their children are doing well, with Tracy’s son, Robert, having married last July. Ben closed with, “I am still active in the VFW and Tracy in the VFW auxiliary. We have been helping a lot of veterans and their families locally with our VFW activities.” In addition to watching his grandson growing like a weed, John Kailey reported that May 2, 2026, he and Jim Owens attended the 50th reunion of the reenactment of the march to New Market. John wrote, “Hard to believe it has been 50 years!” George “The Greek” Eliades checked in to write that he had dinner with Glenn and Susan Higgins when they stopped by Richmond, Virginia, in April 2026. Joining Greek, Glenn, and Susan were Dave Crawford, Grady Andrews, and Bart and Susan Cramer. I am sure that the dinner conversation included Greek letting people know that he found a “Greek Rat,” Markos Panoutsos ’29! After attending our DRC with our ’76 dykes April 25, 2026, in Lexington, Dean Smith reported that he and Mark Cheek went to see Rob Maxey, where they were also able to see Robbie Patterson, Rob’s cousin. They enjoyed the afternoon and evening rain, which was desperately needed by the farmers and homeowners. Dean reported that “Rob was in a great mood, and it sure was good to be with him for several hours. It is amazing how he brings forth the best, always a positive outlook. He is surrounded by family and friends, and this weekend was no exception. As I pulled up, grandchildren were everywhere and embraced Rob as they ran around playing at the farm while wearing out his wife, Debbie, in the meantime.” Unfortunately, this was overshadowed by the complete loss of Rob’s son’s home to fire the day before, believed to be the result of the charging of lithium batteries on the children’s electric toy vehicles. Rob’s son had started the charging before he picked up the children from school that day, returning to find the house engulfed in flames—a total loss. To no one’s surprise, the community and friends were rallying to their aid, as they had nothing left but what they were wearing. An email was sent out to the class with information on how to
contribute to the support fund that has been set up. If you did not receive this email and would like to assist Rob’s son and family rebuild, please let me know, as I will be happy to send that information to you. I joined Tom Manley and Ed Johnson March 26, 2026, to attend the interment of retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. John C. Coleman ’76 at Arlington National Cemetery. The full military honors ceremony was impressive and awe-inspiring. The service was made even more special as John’s wife, Teri, spoke to conclude the graveside services. Attended by over 25 of John’s BRs, it was also an opportunity to reconnect with many of our ’76 dykes. Cold Steel Charlie ’76 was well represented with company commander, Bob Keneally ’76; company executive officer, Ray Ramos ’76; and rat company executive officer, Jim Delisio ’76, among the attendees. On April 2, 2026, Rich McGruder, Ed Johnson, and I attended the funeral for retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. C. Ernest Edgar III ’58 at Arlington National Cemetery. The service, held in the Old Post Chapel at Fort Myer, included members of the family, highlighted by a heartfelt, inspiring eulogy of his father by Ernie Edgar IV ’87. In mid-April 2026, I joined Phil Andrews, Frank Jester, Tom Manley, Rich McGruder, Eric Schwarz, Anthony Pais, and John Poffenbarger for the second annual outing at John’s Green Knob hunting camp in the mountains of West Virginia. This outing’s events included several hiking options and pistol shooting opportunities, in addition to general BR engagement. John was a fantastic host as we all appreciated the spectacular meals that were planned and prepared under the direction of Tom Manley. A very special thanks to John for this opportunity to get back together! Attending our DRC with our ’76 dykes event held April 25, 2026, were Anthony Pais, Ed Johnson, Pete Underwood, Ray Duffett, John Colonna, Tom Manley, John Poffenbarger, Carter McCrowell, Glenn Higgins, Dan Sheahan, Dean Smith, John Brown, Mark Cheek, Al Soltis, Ed Buck, Steve White, John Hash, John Carty, Dave Crawford, Jay Higginbotham, Howard Adams, and myself. This event provided a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with individual ’76 dykes and other members of the Class of 1976, in addition to getting together with BRs. A special shout-out to Grady Andrews, who asked the brilliant question last year: “Why don’t we get together with our dykes?” That question was the driver for identifying and developing this event. Held in Crozet Hall on the Saturday of ’76’s 50th Reunion weekend, we had an estimated 200 total attendees, including the 22 attending BRs. The feedback I
and others received was very positive. Carter McCrowell told me that this was the first time since a football game in 1978 that he had seen his dyke, Peter Friesen ’76. Similarly, for me, I had not seen my dyke, Bob Keneally ’76, since his wedding in 1978. I believe this may have been the first time in VMI history that an event such as this has been held. In addition to the DRC with our ’76 dykes, we had BR socials and dinners on both the Friday before and the Saturday night after for those BRs who were in Lexington. The socials and dinners alone were well worth the trip, as it was great to catch up with everyone. I want to thank all of those who attended, as well as those that could not attend, and all of those who were supportive of this event’s development and execution. I would be remiss if I did not also send out a special shout-out to Pete Underwood, who suggested the special ’79 nametags for this event, a 5”x7” white index card held by a silver safety pin, with: “My name is ..., I belong to ...”! We have continued our Pass-In-Review program engagement with the Class of 2029. For those who may not be aware, the Pass-In-Review program is a joint VMI–VMI Alumni Association effort that pairs an alumni 50th Reunion class with the cadet class graduating the year of their 50th Reunion. This pairing begins as the cadet class matriculates. We have been paired with the now-new VMI Class of 2029. Past activities have included Anthony Pais and Bill Hamlin representing our class when the Rat Mass of 2029 matriculated last August and Al Soltis and Tom Trumps representing our class at 2029’s Breakout dinner this past January. In addition, we had a number of then-rats stop by our class tailgate last November. On April 11, 2026, a group of BRs joined the Class of 2029 for their tour of the D-Day National Memorial in Bedford, Virginia. Representing our class were Al Soltis, Anthony Pais, John Brown, Ray Duffett, Tom White, Bill Hamlin, John Colonna, Jeb Burton, and Chappy Lucas. It was a great morning as we paired with individual 2029 companies for the guided tours, which gave us a further opportunity to introduce our class to members of 2029. I joined with 2029’s Cold Steel Charlie and enjoyed getting to know many of the cadets. Afterward, we had a BR lunch and caught up with one another. Many thanks to the BRs who attended, as many cadets expressed their appreciation for our presence and support. On May 14, 2025, Anthony Pais and I traveled to Lexington to meet the newly elected officers of the Class of 2029: Cadet Shayan Behnam ’29, president; Cadet Donald King ’29, vice president; and Cadet Michael Harris ’29, historian. We used this meeting to introduce ourselves and our class 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes and to discuss ideas for future engagement with their class through the Pass-In-Review program. I hope everyone will have the opportunity to meet these cadets as they are outstanding representatives of their class and VMI. In closing, I want to thank everyone for your continuing support. I have three requests. First, please keep in your thoughts and prayers those BRs who are facing health and other challenges. Second, please mark your calendars for April 2029 (most likely one of the last two weekends of April) for our 50th Reunion. And third, if there is a BR you have thought about reconnecting with but have not yet done so, take the time to reach out and reconnect today! RVM!
1980
John Gibney Jr.
Hello, Brother Rats! These notes cover the period Feb. 14–May 15, 2026. Finally, the brutal winter in the Northeast is over. And the Knicks are in the conference finals! Note: On May 5, I replaced my old MacBook with a new MacBook. I did this at the Apple store in Grand Central Station. All but my AOL folder containing this period’s saved messages migrated. Apologies if you used my AOL address and the message has been lost (AOL could not restore the folder, and it is not in the cloud). Please communicate using the above Gmail address. Thank you. The period began with an email exchange with Doug Burton. Doug lives in the Raleigh area, and he wrote that all is well. He and Holly celebrated his birthday with their three children, who all live in the area. I exchanged email with Dave Gleason on his birthday. Dave and Carol were in Las Vegas with Mike and Bonnie Flinn to see the Eagles at the Sphere. They returned home to Virginia to an ice-covered driveway. I exchanged email with Walt Wood on his 72nd birthday. Walt’s message contained several photos—see photo comments at end. Walt and Mary Lynne were preparing to depart Peru for a 4-week recon trip to Alaska, returning to Peru to begin their journey to full-time life in Alaska. I exchanged email with Tom “Gunny” Kelly on his birthday with copies to fellow Marines Steve Chace, Dan Conn, Rob Gearhart, Tom Gelles, Dennis Hackemeyer, Frank Leech, Steve Letts, Wade Stinnette, and Robby Wheeler (apologies
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for omissions) and his roommates, Eli Alford and Elliott Wolffe. Gunny lives in Idaho and spent the weekend eating rich food. Rob Robinson initiated a text that included 15 BRs in a “Band of Brothers” photo taken on the Parade Ground. Respondents (in order) included Dusty Boyd, Chal Glenn, Jeff Washington, Josh Priest, John Blankenship, Allen Ramer, Kirk Deadrick, Jay Melvin, John Caplice, Hugh Fain, and Robby Jones. I exchanged email with Ed Elliott on his birthday. Ed lives in Roanoke. He retired a year ago. He keeps busy remodeling his rental properties. Ed commented on the harsh winter and that he is grateful to be healthy and active. Walt Kreitler sent an email with an update. Walt works with VMI cadets and prospective cadets from Southeast Asia, one who graduated in May. He is working to have his business acquired and then retire, possibly from Virginia to a warmer climate, and to complete a second book. Joe Burns copied me on an email to VMI requesting a connection to a financial advisor in the South Jersey or Philadelphia area. I spoke with Joe, who lives in New Jersey and is doing well. I offered to connect him to our BRs who provide these services. Joe wanted to work with someone local to his home. I exchanged text messages and then spoke with John Alerding following the blizzard that hit NYC. I had my annual call with Mark McLean on his birthday. Mark is retired and lives in Florida. He travels to Northeast Pennsylvania and to Colorado to visit children and grandchildren. He also serves on the board of the Class of 1980 Foundation. I sent a text message to Jody Morgan on her birthday with copies to Chal Glenn and Mark McLean and with photos taken during and after the NYC blizzard. Jody wrote that she plans to be in NYC this summer, and we will try to catch up. March began with an email from Matt Atkinson. Matt wrote that he was able to attend our 45th Saturday afternoon and visited with Bruno Loefstedt and Phil Munisteri. His message contained more than 20 photos—see photo comment below. I exchanged email messages with Gary Kessler on his birthday and with Rick Penn on his birthday. Gary sent best wishes in retirement. Rick lives in Erie, Pennsylvania, and wrote that the winter has been really cold with over 70 inches of snow. He retired from GE in 2020, does occasional consulting work, and stays busy with his eight grandchildren. Tom “Gunny” Kelly sent an email containing the Class of 1980 Foundation newsletter that noted Frank Hilton will assume the position of president when Tom’s term ends in June 2026. Bill Kelly sent a message correcting his date of birth—a missing zero on the database. I forwarded a message to Matt Atkinson with a connection
request from his ’83 dyke. I spoke with Gary Levenson on his birthday. Gary is fully retired. We discussed getting together in NYC for a steak dinner and to attend a Jazz at Lincoln Center concert, as Patti and I are subscribers. We also discussed my May trip to Charlottesville—see below. I received a text message from Tim Hodges, and then we spoke. Tim and Vicki attended the PGA Championship outside Philadelphia, and Tim wanted to discuss Philadelphia sights and transportation, as Patti and I lived in Philadelphia in the ’90s and still visit regularly. In a subsequent call, Tim and I discussed golfing this summer. I exchanged email with Jim Carmichael on his birthday. Jim lives in Maine and sent photos showing the snow outside his window. I exchanged email with Gary Fellows on his birthday. Gary wrote that he and Mindy enjoyed seeing everyone at our 45th. Gary recently retired and is able to travel more. He is also taking golf lessons. I sent a text message to John Caplice on his birthday with copies to Ken Baybutt, John Blankenship, Dusty Boyd, Jay Melvin, Gene Scott, and Jeff Washington. John and Margie plan to travel this summer. We also discussed golfing in Richmond and gathering at VMI for a football game in the fall. I exchanged email with Les Walsh on his birthday. Les wrote that he and Carolyn had a great time at our reunion reliving the old days. I sent a text message to Hugh Fain on his birthday with copies to Ed Baker and Wade Stinnette and a second message with copies to Ken Baybutt, John Blankenship, Dusty Boyd, John Caplice, Jay Melvin, Gene Scott, and Jeff Washington. We also spoke. Hugh, Renee, and their daughters are all well. Hugh plans to keep working for another 2 years. April began with my third day of grand jury service, which ran for 20 consecutive business days, Monday through Friday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Apologies for any delayed communication during normal business hours. I spoke with Carla Joinson on Ray’s birthday. Carla lives in Tennessee and is doing well. She is planning to travel following hip replacement surgery in August. I spoke with John Alerding on his birthday. John is retired and lives in Lexington. Anne is still working as a full-time professor in the VMI biology department. I communicated with Sue Bellamy via text, with a copy to Jim O’Connor, on Walt’s birthday. Sue wrote that Walt is greatly missed. Rob Robinson initiated an exchange of happy Easter text messages that included Tom Bersson, Paul Burkholder, John Caplice, Pat Griffin, Frank Hilton, and Dwight Pearson. Patrick McCarthy sent an email with an attached photo in uniform as the chaplain for the 229th command.
Class Notes farewell tour of Moody Hall. John Blankenship He also noted that our 50th will be here before sent an email showing John, Dusty Boyd, Chris long. I sent an email to Steve Chace on his birthDombalis, and Jimmy Parsons at their St. Chrisday with copies to Dan Conn, Rob Gearhart, topher’s 50th high school reunion. John noted— Tom Gelles, Dennis Hackemeyer, Tom (Gunny) and in a subsequent message, Dusty wrote—that Kelly, Frank Leech, Steve Letts, and Wade StinTolar Nolley and Tom Slipek were also in their nette. Many replies included Steve Letts’ message graduating class. detailing how Steve and Karen Chace introduced I reached out to Massoud Tahamtani to conSteve Letts in 1979 to his wife of 46 years, Bonnect him with our Boston-area BRs, as Massoud nie. Steve Chace replied that the string of messagwould be in Boston when his daughter graduates es was the best present he could ask for. He is still from Harvard Law School. Massoud wrote back working at Quantico as director of legal services. with a photo that he saw Dennis Maguire in BosIn a call with Rob Quarles about our gathering in Class of 1980: Massoud Tahamtani and ton in April. I sent separate email messages to John Charlottesville for the NCAA Lacrosse ChampiDennis Maguire in Boston, Massachusetts, Briggs and John Diggs, who share a late April onships, he said that he and Elizabeth were expectin April 2026. birthday. John Briggs replied that he had a good ing their third grandchild in May. time at our 45th. John Diggs replied that I exchanged email messages with he is doing well. April ended with my Mitch Alexander on his birthday. Mitch wife, Patti, seeing photos on Facebook wrote that he is doing fine and enjoyed of Ed Bower and Dee’s wedding. watching our reunion videos. Tom BersMay began with a call with Ed Bowson sent a text message with an attached er. Dee was Ed’s finals date in 1980. photo taken at the VMI quarterly breakThey live in Bedford, Virginia. Robby fast in Virginia Beach. Ali Mahan and Jones officiated at the wedding, and Josh Priest attended. Tom later sent a Ed’s son, Mitchell, was best man. Patti text with a photo taken at the VMI seand I stayed with Ed and Dee following nior alumni luncheon in Williamsburg. our reunion and look forward to a return Dave Gleason, Mike Luning, and Dixvisit. Rob Robinson sent a text meson Tucker also attended. I exchanged sage with attached photos that included email messages with Bill Wallace on his Pat Griffin and Jeff Washington, taken birthday. Bill wrote that he and Molly at the VMI Alumni Association Board are well and stay busy with church and meeting. I spoke with Jay Melvin. Patti friends. They travel each year to Triniand I planned to extend our visit to Chardad and Tobago to visit Molly’s parents. lottesville to Richmond and/or the ChesThey traveled to Alaska last year and apeake area but had to return to NYC plan to travel to Iceland this year. and the Poconos for a family gathering. I exchanged email with Mark Pauls on Jim O’Connor, Lewis Toms, and Trahis birthday. Mark wrote that he enjoyed cy Wilson share an early May birthday. I seeing everyone at our reunion and looks spoke with Lewis, who has retired to his forward to our 50th. He lives in Upstate farm in Statesville, North Carolina. LewNew York but winters at his daughter’s Class of 1980: Tom Bersson, Dave Gleason, Mike Luning, and Dixis was in NYC, and we got together for on Tucker in Williamsburg, Virginia, in April 2026. house in Maryland, where he keeps busy dinner. Tracy sent an email with an upwith projects for her. I exchanged email date. Tracy is winding down his consultwith Kirk Berkhimer on his birthday. ing business, and Jennifer is wrapping Kirk wrote that he was enjoying a Medup her work at the International Moniterranean cruise, that he enjoyed our etary Fund. They plan to retire in Sep45th, and that he looks forward to our tember. Their older daughter, Sienna, is a 50th. senior at Savannah College of Art. Their I spoke with Pat Griffin on his birthyounger daughter, Ellie, is a sophomore day. Pat and Beth divide their time beat University of Florida. Throughout the tween Lynchburg and a Rhode Island period, Tracy and I exchanged email beach house. Pat is still recovering from messages relating to our favorite Enprostate surgery. He is also the Alumglish Premier League football (soccer) ni Association Board of Directors vice teams. His Man City team is vying for president. In addition, I sent a text to Pat the championship. My Tottenham team with copies to Wade Stinnete and Dan is facing relegation. Sweeney. Dan replied with best wishClass of 1980: John Caplice, John Blankenship, Ken Baybutt, and I exchanged email with Marty Fedes. Wade replied similarly and noted that Hugh Fain on the Rappahannock River in November 2025. enko on his birthday and with Preston he and Lannie were in Lexington for the 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes Vock on his birthday. Preston replied that he is doing well. Marty replied that he had a good day and is enjoying living in Florida. He also wrote that he has overcome some health issues and is back to being healthy. I spoke with Gary Levenson to coordinate meeting in Charlottesville during our visit over Memorial Day weekend. Gary was driving to Virginia Beach to visit with Mike Luning. Gary also said that he, Mike, and
Class of 1980: Ed Bower and Dee Ann Wooten at their wedding in April 2026.
Class of 1980: Chris Dombalis, Dusty Boyd, Jimmy Parsons, and John Blankenship at their 50th high school reunion in Richmond, Virginia, in April 2026.
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Tom Bersson are taking a trip to Kentucky later in the summer to attend a bourbon festival. Dwight Pearson sent a text, and then we spoke. Dwight is retired. He works on his cars, is involved in a local Pittsburgh-area Taekwondo studio, and assists VMI admissions with college fairs—Rob Robinson got Dwight involved. Dwight and JoAnne will be in Bushkill, Pennsylvania, in late May to celebrate Dwight’s birthday. As this is near our Poconos house, we may try to connect. Congrats to Rob for being elected as Alumni Association regional director. Throughout the period, Bert Schneider sent text messages. On May 4 (Star Wars Day), Bert sent a text with a photo of Bert dressed as Darth Vader. Rob Quarles called to discuss the plans for our attending the NCAA Lacrosse Championships in Charlottesville over Memorial Day weekend. Rob has attended the tournament in past years and has invited me and Patti. As retirees, we can now attend. We are scheduled to have dinner with Bill Roelofsen and play golf and dine at Keswick. Ben Gore plans to join at dinner. I then called Gary Levenson as he plans to meet me and Patti in Charlottesville for dinner. I also sent a follow-up email to Ben Gore, Bill Roelofsen, and Bud Zirkle, with a copy to John Shuman, who all live in the Charlottesville area. The email included a happy birthday message to Bill. Dwight Pearson—and separately Scott Sayre—sent Cinco de Mayo text messages. Dwight’s included a photo taken with JoAnne in sombreros. In an effort to recover lost AOL email messages, I called Tom Bersson. Tom and Amy were driving to Kentucky. I asked Tom about any plans for our BRs to gather in Lexington this fall for a football game. Tom said that Mike Luning was considering organizing a gathering around the game against The Citadel in November. I spoke with Ed Baker after the Carolina Hurricanes advanced to the third round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. Ed said that he and Dianna would be hosting Dennis Loba for a few days in the Outer Banks. Throughout the period, I exchanged text messages and calls with Ed on topics that included NYC’s mayor, the blizzard, the Olympics, and streaming TV programs. I exchanged email with Tony Zoetis on his birthday. Tony wrote that he and Tracey spent time in wine country. I spoke with Pat Griffin, who reported recovering nicely from prostate surgery in January. Pat uses Frank Hilton as his prostate adviser. Pat and Beth stayed with Frank Bell in Richmond before returning to Rhode Island for the summer. They live in Lynchburg across the street from Dan and Cindy Sweeney otherwise. Chal Glenn sent a text message with attached photos taken in Rome, where Chal and Robin were
on vacation with Rick and Lil Gilbert. I spoke with Robby Wheeler, who is making progress following tongue cancer surgery. He is doing well, almost back to normal speaking and eating, hitting golf balls at the range, doing pushups, and expects to be fully recovered by year-end. He thanked everyone for their support. Kirk Deadrick sent a text message after receiving the Alumni Review. His message contained two photos taken when Kirk and Dana met their children in New York City before Christmas. I exchanged email with Forrest Marion on his birthday, and I received an email message with an attached photo from Allan Berenbrok. The photo was taken in Brazil, where they celebrated Sonia’s birthday. Allan has not yet retired. He is working on AI data centers across the country. He invited anyone in the St. Petersburg, Florida, area to stop in for dinner and a cold one. Allan also included suggestions for our 50th. Thank you to Hugh Fain and Wade Stinnette for calling me on my birthday. Wade serves on the VMI Foundation Board with Ben Gore. I reached out via text message out to Jeff Washington on our shared birthday with copies to Ken Baybutt, John Blankenship, Dusty Boyd, John Caplice, Hugh Fain, Jay Melvin, and Gene Scott. Dwight Pearson sent a text message to me with copies to John Alerding, Tom Bersson, Paul Burkholder, Frank Hilton, and Rob Robinson. Numerous replies offered birthday wishes to Jeff and me. Thank you all. Throughout each period, I receive several text/ email messages with attached photos. Only five are allowed to be published, so apologies for those not appearing in an issue. Similarly, I am copied on text and email messages with extensive narratives. As class notes are limited to five pages, I have to summarize to meet the limitation. Please continue to send and copy me! Still no word on fundraising for our 50th. Please also take a few minutes to confirm that your information on the VMI database (vmi.org/ranks) is up to date. Accurate information is essential to keeping you informed. Thank you for your continuing support.
1981
Jerry Manley
My Brothers, Family, and Friends of ’81, These notes were written in mid-May 2026. By the time you read this, it will be mid-August and
Class Notes chores. A celebration of life for Daniel was held just 3 months away from our 45th Reunion! Hard April 12 at Parklawn Memorial Park in Hampton, to believe 45 years have passed so quickly. What Virginia. It was well attended by many loved ones, is not hard to believe is the fact that our bonds to include BRs Jim Hart, Mark Kanter, Ken have not just endured but grown even stronger. Morris, Bill Leftwich, and Greg and Ann WolBefore I share individual updates, I want to foven. Words that Jim shared with the class that are cus once more on a BR who has been close in our worth repeating: “My takeaway is that life is prehearts and prayers over the past few months—our cious, and tomorrow is never promised. ... Live dear BR Greg White. While we shared news of his every day as if it’s your last, and consciously set passing in our last Review, his memorial service time aside during your busy lives to occasionally and celebration of life were just held May 14 in reach out to your friends and family, particularly Leesburg, Virginia. The memorial service for Greg those that might require some extra time to repair was wonderful. It was held in the historic St. James strained relations. You all mean the world to me. ... Episcopal Church with the follow-on celebration We’re family, and we care about each other. Please of life at the majestic Morven Park. The service keep a watchful eye over each other, particularand celebration truly captured the spirit of BR ly those dealing with health issues, aging family Greg and the joy that he always carried with him. members, or those simply struggling with the evOur class was very well represented. In attendance eryday stresses.” (Well said, Jim. Very well said, were BRs Glenn Alexander, Adrian Bogart, BR.) Mike and Katherine Denton, George and Robin Class of 1981: Diana, Kenny, and Ken Pierro On to our inputs! I received a detailed input from Depaoli, John Dixon, John Ferry, Bruce Gitchell, attend Kenny’s law school graduation at the my beloved roommate, Mark “Sloppy” GonKen and Jeanie Herbert, Jim Langan, Gene LovUniversity of Michigan in May 2026. salves, on an incredible several months of traving, Greg Lynam, Jerry Manley, Rick McCue, el. Mark wrote, with a few SlopRon Mislowski, Gary Morgan, py-isms: “The last several months Pete Nauta, Dave Openshaw, have been one $&*# of a ride. JanuFrank Palermo, Bill Stamm, ary kicked off in Vegas with brother Pete Tranchik, Mark Vasco, and rat roommate Johann Cooper—and Mack Williams. It was a fitting if you’re going to start the year, you event for our final farewells to might as well start it loud. [We] hit Greg—a wonderful show of love the Sphere for ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ and support for our BR, for Paige, which felt somewhere between sciand for their blended family. ence fiction and an acid flashback Another loss in our extended engineered by NASA. Then, for old class family was that of Daniel times’ sake, we headed to AdrenaFrishkorn, the oldest son of Jim line Mountain and reminded ourand Mei-Ling Frishkorn. Danselves that recoil therapy is real iel passed in March at the age Class of 1981: BRs honoring the life of Daniel Frishkorn in March 2026 are medicine. Sent rounds downrange of 41. Daniel was a tremendous (from left) are Dave Openshaw, Jim Hart, Mark Kanter, Ken “Catman” Morwith a Barrett .50 caliber sniper riyoung man and an incredible ris, Bill Leftwich, Jim Frishkorn, and Greg Wolven. fle and enough automatic weapons athlete in high school and colto make ATF paperwork nervous. lege. After college, Daniel’s pasSome people golf in retirement; we sion focused on establishing his chose artillery. Then March arrived, career as a high school teacher, and Maria absolutely crushed a lifecoach, and working with chillong bucket-list trip through Vietnam dren, which included a special and Cambodia. Private tours through gift for connecting with special Hanoi, standing inside the Hanoi Hilneeds children. Over the past 15 ton, paying tribute to Admiral Jeryears, he served as a high school emiah Denton and the POWs who science teacher and, during the endured %#@! with dignity and evenings and weekends, served defiance. Emotional days walking tirelessly as an inspirational wresthrough the Killing Fields outside tling coach who emphasized with Phnom Penh—impossible places his wrestlers the importance of Class of 1981: BRs and cadet recipients of the Class of ’81 Jamison-Cauthat leave you quiet long after you respect for parents and teachers, dill Scholarship attend the VMI Foundation Scholarship Banquet in April leave. Equal parts history lesson, performance in the classroom, 2026. Pictured are (from left) Cadet Isaiah Glover ’27, Laura and Marc heartbreak, and reminder of how and the honorable results of hard Barthello, Philip Reese ’26, Cadet Benjamin Fong ’27, and Barbara and thin the line is between civilization work both on the wrestling mat David Saunders. and madness. But the trip also had and at home dutifully performing 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes soul and life everywhere—cooking classes in Siem Reap, street markets from Hanoi to Saigon, monks, fishermen, scooters moving like organized chaos, and food so fresh and alive it makes America feel shrink-wrapped. We followed [the spirit of] Anthony Bourdain the entire way. Back home, life accelerated even more. I stepped into the role as VMI Alumni Association Northeast – Region III regional director and have been helping organize the upcoming NYC Military Boxing Classic this November 2026. Unfortunately, the timing and responsibilities are going to prevent me from making the reunion this year—and trust me, that decision was not made lightly. Huge hats off to Brother Rat ‘Coulda Been’ Dennis Maguire ’80 for helping drive this thing forward alongside Greg Robertson ’12, Paul Dickinson ’96, and Terry McCartney ’86. Good men doing good work for the Institute. And speaking of pride—the VMI Regulators (boxing team) flat-out showed up this year. With a little support from the old guard, they brought home the second overall team trophy, four national championship belts, plus a runner-up finish. Outstanding effort by the cadets and coaches. Brotherhood still matters. Standards still matter. Not bad for a few months. From Vegas gunpowder ... to Cambodian temples at sunrise ... to New York fight-night planning and VMI cadets bringing home hardware.” (The above was spoken only as Sloppy can! Love my roomie!) Bruce and Marsha Thompson visited his roommate, John Cawthorne, and Lisa Cawthorne at their home in Kure Beach in May. John was reportedly happy to take the four of them 4-wheeling on the sand dunes near Fort Fisher Beach on the ocean. They had a blast! Bruce and Marsha were also able to visit their two sons in Hawaii last December. Their son, Brandon, recently left the Navy after serving as an electrician’s mate, nuclear 2nd class. Brandon is now using the GI bill to attend the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where he is studying electrical engineering. Their son, Connor, is also in the Navy and serving aboard a Virginia-class, fast-attack submarine. Connor has
been to the North Pole and was part of Operation Ice Camp 2024, which is a 3-week military operation designed to research, test, and evaluate operational capabilities in the Arctic region. In addition to each of our military services (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and even the Space Force) having personnel participating in the exercise, personnel from the Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal Canadian Navy, French Navy, United Kingdom Royal Navy, and the Royal Australian Navy were also engaged. Connor also did a 6-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea as part of the Truman Carrier Group from 2024–25. (Definitely an active operational tempo for that young man!) Mike “Psycho” McLeod wrote in late February that he was moving to his new home in Inlet Beach, Florida, between Panama City and Destin. He plans to be in regular contact with Jim and MeiLing Frishkorn, as they will be only a few minutes away. Psycho shared more recent news that, in his last week in the Satellite Beach area, he received a last-minute invite to go jumping with the Army’s Golden Knights. The Golden Knights just finished their winter training at Homestead and did their first demo airshow of the year at the Valiant Air Command in Titusville, Florida. Psycho has jumped with the Golden Knights before, as well as some SEAL team members, and it has always a fun time for him. Steve and Marianne Tennant were recognized in May for 25 years of service as sponsors for international military students and their families attending Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, where Steve was recently promoted to associate professor of practice. He and Marianne had a recent visit from son Joe, who is the legislative liaison and chief of staff for Virginia House Delegate Briana Seawell from Woodbridge, Virginia. Marianne is once again president of the Community Theater Board, and she is on the Parks and Recreation Board, the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Board, and still is in charge of the International Student Loan Closet at Fort Leavenworth. Steve was also recently appointed
Class of 1981: BRs celebrate the life of Greg White at Morven Park in Leesburg, Virginia, May 14, 2026.
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to the City Planning Commission. The Tennants are definitely staying busy! Ray Lawson thought he wrapped up teaching at USC Aiken, but then he was asked to start up a minor in nuclear engineering and teach the first couple of courses. Ray said, “Yes, but there is a cost.” He gave them “the cost” and is waiting to see how that goes. Per Ray, “No money, no honey!” Gale is staying busy and putting in a lot of miles helping shuttle their four grandkids to dance, gymnastics, and jiu-jitsu. As if that is not enough, Gale has taken on some much-needed home maintenance projects. Together, Ray and Gale continue to take private art lessons from a great teacher in Lexington, South Carolina. It also gives them a chance to try out new restaurants after class. Ray has been able to attend a couple of quarterly VMI Old Corps lunches with a group of alumni in the Columbia, South Carolina, area. And he is the “youngster” in the group. Per Ray, Larry Umberger ’65 pulls that group together, and it is always a good time. Lots of good stories that undoubtedly get enhanced each time they get together. Greg and Ann Wolven have been increasingly busy. They attended the Maryland memorial service and internment for Ann’s father in March. On behalf of Ann’s father, she and Greg delivered a very large and heavy diorama of “The Battle of the Crater (1864)” to Col. Keith Gibson ’77, VMI Museum System executive director. It was her father’s wish for it to be given to the VMI Museum. Greg and Ann also enjoyed a night of comedy in Richmond when comedian Henry Cho performed at the Coventry Theater. They also helped their son, Chris, move from Charleston, South Carolina, to Lafayette, Indiana, in February. Chris wanted to be closer to his sister, Katie, and her family. Greg and Ann are also looking forward to the annual Smith Mountain Lake ski bash hosted by Jim Hart and his family in July, as well as a trip to France, Luxembourg, and Belgium before our 45th Reunion in November. Our dear BR Chip Johnson has retired from the bench! Chip shared the following: “When President George W. Bush appointed me U.S. district judge, the appointment was for life, so the decision to walk out of the courthouse on my own instead of being carried out in a pine box was a difficult decision to make; however, I believe it is the right decision for me at this time in my life.” Chip also shared that it is customary for Article III judges to have a portrait done. His portrait unveiling ceremony was scheduled for July 24, and I hope we get some great pictures and feedback on the well-deserved event. Marc and Laura Barthello had the pleasure of attending the 2026 VMI Foundation Scholarship
Class Notes Banquet. They enjoyed the company of three cadets who are currently benefitting from our VMI Class of 1981 Jamison-Caudill Scholarship: Philip Reese ’26, Cadet Benjamin Fong ’27, and Cadet Isaiah Glover ’27. They also ran into our BRs Duane Andrews and Dave and Barbara Saunders. Earlier in the year, Mark and Laura also ran into BR John Aulbach on post while walking their Huskies. The Barthellos continue to enjoy interacting with cadets on their daily dog walks. They also selflessly hosted a ’26 cadet while she recovered from hip surgery over Christmas furlough. Rev. Dave Taylor, our very own “Pastor Dave,” shared that he was onboarded in late February as the new chaplain at Ferrum College. This position will be in addition to his continuing as pastor for the Maple Grove Global Methodist Church in Ferrum. Dave shared that one of the things he is hoping to launch is a donor-supported program to provide every graduating senior with their own Bible. To quote Dave: “Nothing changed my world more than the great and lasting impact Chaplain Caudill (HBR ’83) had on me when he presented our Bibles to us. I want to extend his legacy even more than we ever could know.” (Outstanding tribute to our Chaplain Caudill, Dave!) Dave Hinchee chimed in! He and Jo Ann were in Richmond in March for a wedding. While they were there, they attended the 40th annual Church Hill Irish Festival and ran into Bruce Kitchen as he was on his way to get his head shaved for charity. Dave shared that Bruce was “quite entertaining and raised almost $9,000.” Our BR Bruce has had his head shaved at this annual event several times to help raise money to fund children’s cancer research through the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. St. Baldrick’s Foundation is a volunteer and donor-powered charity committed to supporting the most promising research to find cures for childhood cancer and give survivors long and healthy lives. They fund more in childhood cancer research grants than any other organization, save for the U.S. government. (Kudos to you, Bruce!) I had coffee with BR Larry Butler in early May at the Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii in Virginia Beach. Like BR Kitchen, Larry is a selfless BR who has worked for years to “give back” to his community. As few may know, Larry was instrumental in standing up Making Life Better of Glenview, Illinois, a nonprofit dedicated to building connection among men while fueling charitable work across the North Shore. MLB is a social, fraternal, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization comprised of local professionals with diverse backgrounds who are interested in exchanging ideas, sharing perspectives, and forming meaningful
relationships through the organization’s charitable endeavors. The laughter and conversations come with purpose: Friendships forged here often lead to fundraisers, service projects, and mentorship efforts that ripple well beyond the clubhouse walls. The spark came to Larry in 2014, when he gathered a few friends from his neighborhood with a modest proposal to support local families. Well, now that he is back in Virginia, Larry is at it again. You will hear more about Larry’s efforts, but for now, he is actively working to set up a not-for-profit organization in the Hampton Roads area. Like MLB, his focus will be to give back to many communities of need with a focus on the military and their families who may be struggling. Larry has already piqued the interest and attention of groups such as Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions, and he is actively expanding his network to help foster ideas as he pushes forward. Trip Lloyd wrote to say he is still trying to work with the Office of Personnel Management to correct his retirement annuity. (A daunting task, Trip!) He and his bride, Anne, enjoyed a Caribbean cruise in late April. Anne is scheduled for a girlfriends’ cruise in October, and they will both be taking an Alaskan cruise in 2027. Trip again played the mayor at the Virginia Renaissance Faire. He also acted, sang, and danced in “Godspell;” played Riff-Raff in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show;” and has performed numerous improv shows with his troupe. Now for a few quick hitters! I had the pleasure of speaking with BR John Myers Feb. 18. Great conversation catching up with him on BRs, small river cruises, family, and more. John continues to enjoy life in the great Pacific Northwest. BR Ken Pierro sent a quick but very proud update. Ken wrote, in part: “As a result of questionable influence from Grover [Outland], my son decided to attend law school and graduated today from University of Michigan law school.” Ken’s son, Kenny, has started work with a law firm in Michigan doing estate planning. Huge congratulations to “Young Kenny!” Jim Waring shared that he has finally “retired-retired” from his second career—the first being 28 years of active duty with the U.S. Army. On May 1, 2026, after 17 years in the defense industry, Jim retired from his job with CTG as Army and International Programs vice president. Jim reports, “Rounds complete!” Catherine and Jim are planning to travel and are looking forward to our class reunion in November. Rob and Jen Costello closed on their vacation house at Roanoke Rapids Lake. Cos shared that the door is open at his vacation house, and he is
Class of 1981: Bruce Kitchen sporting a rat haircut again to raise funds to help fight childhood cancer through the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. looking forward to many “BR and bourbon visits!” Cos further shared that his recovery continues from many maladies and that he intends to be at this year’s Smith Mountain Lake ski bash at full strength. He closes his inputs in typical Cos style by saying, “I love my brother rats!” C.P. Davis wrote to check in. He also shared how he is looking forward to our reunion. C.P. is moving towards winding down his work with private equity firms and focusing on more board advisory roles and his four bagel stores (Bagel Station) in the Winston-Salem and Burlington areas for which he is a co-owner. He has remained in touch with his roommates, Bill Leftwich and Jim Friskhorn. His youngest son, Thomas, will be a rising senior at Hampden-Sydney, where he is a member of the tennis team, “playing in the top spot, line one.” BR George Chung shared he was working the night shift “supporting our 24th refueling outage.” As I recall, and all the nukes in the class can correct me, a refueling outage is a scheduled shutdown of a nuclear power plant to replace about one-third or more of a reactor’s spent fuel with new fuel, along with performing any necessary or schedule maintenance and inspections. (An impressive and critical job, George!) Ray and Susie Moschler were in South Korea in May. He sent a picture of Susie and his 100-yearold mother-in-law while visiting Jeju Island. (Both beautiful ladies, Ray!) Well, my brothers and friends, that is about all the news that is fit to print for this edition. Please stay in touch and send me updates in August! Reread the words that BR Frishkorn shared! He was spot on. Cherish our bonds and reach out to one another—regularly. Life is precious. We are family. Cheers, my brothers. May God bless each one of you and the Class of 1981! Jerry 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes
1982
Will Council
Hello, Brother Rats, I write to you from central Georgia in the heart of a scouting camp while attending a National Camping School for Scouting America. I am getting recertified for being the director of range and target sports for summer camp. This used to be called shooting sports, but that’s got negative connotations, so they changed it. All of us old codgers have given up trying to use the new name; even our instructors call it shooting sports. I will be heading back to summer camp in just a few weeks as the backup for the shooting sports director because he’s getting a new heart valve, and well ... let’s just hope for the best. So yes, I am still involved with Scouting America. I thought I was retired, but they called me back to act as an assistant ranger for camp when our full-time ranger suddenly quit on us with less than a month to go before summer camp started. I have been coming home for the weekend, but it’s felt like the “Groundhog Day” movie, as I lost a day mid-week and did not realize it was already Thursday, and Susan wanted to know where I was. That or I am just really getting forgetful. Nah! Last note about being here at camp school: We have a bugler! He really tries his best, and he makes me remember Bill the Bugler, except Bill was so much better than this guy. At least he tries, and I sure could not do it. So, the last notes gave me the opportunity to poke Ted Huffman because his contact information in the alumni app was out of date and pretty sketchy. Guess what? It worked! Ted replied to let us know what he has been up to lately. Ted is still in Central Pennsylvania but no longer has a landline. You would have to leave a message the first time, as he usually doesn’t answer unknown callers. Ted is happily retired but is working part time with a Christian prison outreach ministry here in Central Pennsylvania. Thank you, Ted, for letting us know you are still out there and reading the class notes. Rob Preddy checked in and claimed he did not have much to report due to a pretty mundane life. He has been back in Roanoke for the past 15 years and bought a house next to his parents to help, as their health had slowly declined. Rob was actually reaching out to connect with several BRs and
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was asking for my assistance in making that happen. Rob’s parents were in a terrible car accident around Christmas time, and his father was killed. Rob was hoping to share this tragic news with his “brothers,” as his parents referred to them. Not a day went by that Sue and Harold did not bring up at least one of their “sons,” mentioned before as the brothers. They spoke about them more over Rob’s lifetime than they did him, the “real” son. (These are Rob’s words, not mine!) So as class agent, I forwarded the note to those brothers: Russ Stewart, Jon Mott, Bill Kulas, George Mayforth, Jeff Goodwin, Jack Wainwright, and Tracy Henderson. If I missed anyone, I am sorry I did not have a current contact. Here’s to hoping you reach back out to Rob and reconnect. Bob Louthan is applying to be the next class agent! He might tell you otherwise, but he has been doing some pretty awesome things lately. Like calling up BRs once a week out of the blue and just checking in on them. I got one of those calls! Nice surprise, Bob. The Louthans are doing just fine, by the way. We got a great greeting from Papa Joe Poteralski, who had recently been traveling over to Europe. Last fall, Robin told him to plan a trip to Germany as a “once-in-a-lifetime” trip. So this past March, they spent 2 weeks visiting Cologne, Trier, Luxembourg City, and St. Goar. And he sent a picture to prove it! He met up with old friends and their families, and visited old haunts. Both Trier and Cologne were old Roman cities, so it is a historian’s dream. The streetcar drivers’ strike did put a crimp in plans. Robin is working for East Tennessee Children’s
Hospital, now known as Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital. She is looking forward to retiring when he does, so September 2027. Their daughter, Alexmarie, is engaged, and the wedding is in early 2028. Matthew just survived another tax season, but that is the life of a CPA. Joe says he feels young when attending VMI events; unfortunately, the lacrosse squad changed leagues and the water polo team hasn’t been up this way since 2020. In our last notes, I expressed having a wonderful time with Rusty and Andrea Wood during the “blizzard” of 2026. Well, now Rusty calls me quite frequently, especially if he is making the drive up to Virginia to do some land management on his property there. This time, he added the bonus that he had felt the desire to call and catch up with Jerry Walker—first time in 40 years! You see, spending some quality time with your class agent makes you do things like this. Rusty even sent his class ring in to get resized to fit his big farmer’s hands. By the way, Jerry had just gone through a hip replacement procedure and was on the mend. Hey, Jerry! Hope you are feeling better and can send us a note on what you have been doing in the past 40 years. Joel McBroom and wife Nina were hitting the RV road and dropped down to see Jose and Fran Suarez. I swear I thought I had a photo of that, but I must be dreaming. Anyway, Joel just realized that I live right outside of Chattanooga, and they are heading this way in September. I have put it on my calendar, so hopefully we will spend some time together. Well, that is all I have for now. I hope everyone has a great summer. I will be spending time at camp for June then I will be going to the Scouting National Jamboree in July in beautiful West Virginia. You all be safe, and if you can’t be safe, at least wear a helmet. Will Council
1983
Jamie MacDonald
Class of 1982: Papa Joe Poteralski found his favorite hangout while touring in Europe recently.
Brother Rats, Spring has a way of reminding us that time moves quickly, but the bonds forged in barracks endure. As we settle into another season, it is worth reflecting on the friendships, shared experiences, and enduring spirit of the Class of ’83 that continue to connect us no matter where life has taken us.
Class Notes This edition of class notes is filled with the accomplishments, milestones, challenges, and memories that make our class unique. Since our last update, we have also experienced loss within our class family. BRs Clayton “Wags” Wagner passed away in March and Jim “Hypo” Stader in April. We are greatly saddened by their passings and will continue to honor them through fond memories of friendship forged in barracks and strengthened throughout our adult lives. Many BRs wrote to share reflections and stories about both men. Wags and Jim were wonderful men who left behind loving families and many dear friends. God bless them and their families. I have been able to return to VMI a couple of times, where I often see Scott Belliveau at Moody Hall. I attended the track and field reunion, where I connected with teammates I had not seen in decades, including BRs Eddie Williams and Jack Ditt. Also, there was Coach Wade Williams, a true legend in VMI athletics and a man who positively impacted the lives of many cadets. Attending the reunion was a very rewarding experience. I also made it back for Alumni Association meetings, along with Steve Amato. While in Lexington, Steve and I connected with Frank Kalesnik for a beverage at The Palms. It was great to catch up with Frank. This summer, Jennifer and I will head back to New Hampshire for some quality time with our growing family. Steve Amato submitted a great update. As mentioned, Steve and I attended the VMI Alumni Association Board of Directors meeting in early May. Steve’s highlight was the surprise “no-notice” reunion with entrepreneur BR Frank Kalesnik, whom Steve had not seen since graduation. Naturally, the adult beverages shared during the reunion made the visit even better. Steve shared that he and Mary had a very busy holiday season filled with family, friends, and parish activities. In February,
Class of 1983: Will Creekmur and Al Perdigao reconnect at a recent Southern California alumni gathering.
Class of 1983: Dave Matawitz and Mike Dillemuth, former roommates, reconnect in Dave’s hometown of Las Vegas, Nevada.
Class of 1983: More than 20 BRs represent the class in honoring Clayton “Wags” Wagner at his funeral in March 2026.
Steve and BR Tim Craul traveled to Richmond to attend VMI’s Legislative Reception, where alumni, staff, cadets, and friends engaged directly with members of the Virginia General Assembly. During the 2026 General Assembly session, three bills were introduced that could have significantly impacted VMI. Through the efforts of Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87, VMI’s new superintendent, along with support generated through the Legislative Reception, the bills were either withdrawn or substantially amended. Steve encouraged BRs to read more at vmialumni.org/landing/mobilize-forvmi-speak-up-for-state-support/. Steve also provided a summary of the VMI Alumni Agencies’ proactive approach by establishing a Mobilize For VMI webpage on their website. Thousands of alumni, cadets, and friends of VMI used the webpage’s resources to respectfully and professionally advocate on behalf of VMI to the Virginia General Assembly regarding the three proposed bills. It was a brilliant effort to establish this webpage with the resources for use. In March, Steve and Mary enjoyed a short but memorable visit with BR Al Toler and Mandley “Ray” Johnson during Operation Retrieve the Twinkie—the nickname for Al’s vintage 1983 Airstream RV. Al and Ray were driving the RV from Houlton, Maine, back to Al’s home in North Chesterfield, Virginia, and stopped for coffee, cookies, and cake while sharing stories from their 3-day adventure. The trip actually began in December 2025, when Al and his wife, Cheryl, attempted to drive the RV to Prince Edward Island, Canada, for a family holiday gathering. After several mechanical breakdowns, they limped into Maine but never made it to Canada in the RV. Fortunately, Cheryl had wisely rented a “chase vehicle” after the first breakdown, allowing Al, Cheryl, their dog, luggage, and supplies to continue the trip by car while the RV remained behind for repairs. Once repairs were reportedly completed, Al and Ray flew to Maine to retrieve the RV and continue the drive home. Unfortunately, more mechanical issues followed. After leaving Steve and Mary’s home, the RV broke down again just an hour north of Richmond—so close to home, yet still stranded. Steve included a photo of himself, Al, and Ray standing proudly in front of the well-traveled Airstream. Steve also noted that 2026 began on a difficult note for the Class of ’83 with the passing of Wags Wagner and Jim Stader. Steve joined more than 20 BRs at Wags’ funeral service and asked that the class continue to keep both families in their thoughts and prayers. Looking ahead, Steve and Mary will participate in the 2026 Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage in Lourdes, France, 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes where they will spend 5 days on spiritual retreat and reflection. Finally, Steve shared that 66 of the 300 class coins remain available for purchase. Interested BRs can contact him directly at amatostevemary@gmail.com. Will Creekmur sent a short update. He reported having the pleasure of reconnecting with Al Perdigao at a recent Southern California alumni gathering. Mike Devens and Breck Gorman met for lunch back in March. They were rat roommates in New Barracks, Room 469, about a million years ago. They found a good spot in Okatie, South Carolina, about an equal and easy drive for both, and caught up for the first time in many years. Mike said it is good to know that he, Breck, and several other BRs have retired in the South Carolina low country. They will have to make it a bigger group for the next get-together and invite other local BRs to connect with them. Last April, Whit Owens and Brad Norwood met for dinner in Alexandria, Virginia. They were hoping to see other BRs from the DMV, but they were the only ones who made it to dinner. Sorry, Whit—we’ll do better. Nonetheless, our BRs had a great time catching up. Brad told Whit all about restoring his El Camino. Whit is planning to organize DMV happy hours every other month, so hopefully, with some periodicity, there will be a better turnout. Thank you, Whit, for organizing these gatherings. Phil Hubbard checked in to let us know he is retiring from his job with Hampton Roads Sanitation District in June. He is in the Virginia Retirement System and will have 42 years in the system. Phil said it has been a long time since July 1, 1984, when he started in VRS. Congratulations, Phil! Also joining the retired ranks is Dave Warriner. Dave retired Feb. 1, and he and Cindy took a 3-week trip to Australia as a retirement present to himself. Dave is currently in the process of downsizing to an over-55 community in Chester, so he and Cindy are only moving 1 mile away from their current home. Dave added that he recently had dinner with Jay and Jana Lasek, who have also downsized in Midlothian. Doug Urbanek sent his greetings to everyone. Doug is planning to retire from FEMA on his 65th birthday at the end of July. He and his wife, Dorothee, will take the Queen Mary 2 from New York to Hamburg—no reason to hurry—and settle in Sindelfingen, Germany, outside Stuttgart so Dorothee can be closer to family. For the voyage, Doug says he will take binoculars to keep an eye out for icebergs and Russian submarines. He hopes to help with alumni events in Stuttgart. Doug added that if anyone finds themselves in
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Southern Germany, they are welcome to give him a yodel. He will share contact information once they get settled. Dave Matawitz contributed his first submission to the Alumni Review since graduation. Dave commented that it was about time. Since graduation, Dave married his Ring Figure date, Patricia, and they are still going strong after 43 years of marriage. He completed 30 years in the Navy
Class of 1983: Mark Airaghi and “Snake” Arnold attend a mutual friend’s 70th birthday party in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Class of 1983: Steve Amato with Al Toler and Mandley “Ray” Johnson.
with command of an FFG, a CG, and two shore commands before retiring as a captain. Dave later worked as a director at Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems. Following his contractor years, he taught at San Diego State University. Today, Dave and Patricia are active in their church and faith community and are enjoying retirement in Las Vegas, Nevada, where his VMI roommate, Mike Dillemuth, recently visited him. Thank you for the update, Dave. We look forward to hearing more from you. Steve Hodak touched base. He wrote, “Nothing new under the sun here in Fredericksburg ... well, unless you count the dead pine tree that fell on my house about a month ago. Not a lot of damage, just three holes the size of sand dollars and a dent in the fascia where it leaned against the house. Tree guy dinged the house, too, so now I need two pieces of siding replaced.” Steve is still working full-time for Amentum in the program protection arena and is looking forward to retiring for good someday. Mark Airaghi checked in with an update. He and “Snake” Arnold attended a mutual friend’s 70th birthday party down in Fort Lauderdale. They dressed for the ’70s and had a blast—there is photographic evidence of this encounter. Mark wrote, “Have to say Snake can still slither on the dance floor.” In February, Mark attended the Portsmouth Sports Club luncheon with Phil Hubbard, where Sam Roberts ’11, VMI baseball coach, spoke about the upcoming season. Mark has also caught the Keydets on the diamond three times so far this year. Every two or three months, Snake, Franklin Hudgins, and Mark try to get together for lunch. Mark keeps telling them work is overrated, but on the bright side, Snake buys lunch, so maybe working is still good for them. In Jim Johnston’s own words, “I figured I’d finally get off my butt and update you.” Jim and his wife, Diane, decided to leave Virginia Beach and move to Ocean Springs, Mississippi, in October 2023. About 1 week after arriving, Jim attended the wedding of their youngest daughter, Madeline, while Diane stayed home with COVID. Madeline and her husband welcomed Jim and Diane’s first grandchild, Mason, in November 2024. Jim is still working and plans to continue for a couple more years with the National Federation of Independent Business, lobbying in every state capital and Washington, D.C., in support of small business. Jim said it is a very rewarding position. Diane and Jim love living in Ocean Springs and are trying to keep it a secret, but magazines like Better Homes & Gardens keep naming it one of the best places to live on the Gulf Coast. While not a class update, I want to take a moment to express special recognition and appreciation to
Class Notes Teddy Gottwald for his service on the VMI Board of Visitors. Teddy represented the Institute and the Corps with dedication, thoughtful leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the long-term strength and success of VMI. His willingness to serve in such an important role reflects the enduring spirit of service, loyalty, and leadership that continues to distinguish the Class of ’83. Thank you, Teddy, for your faithful service to VMI and to the Corps. In addition to these updates, several recent events—including efforts supporting VMI advocacy, VMI athletics, and the Compete to Win fundraising campaign—prompted BRs to surface and share their thoughts and encouragement. Those participating included Tray Adams, Billy Akers, Tony Arnold, Joe Barra, Mark Benvenuto, Joe Campisano, Gray Carter, Bill Cornett, Marty Curry, Hugh Daughtry, Mike Devens, John Dodge, Owen Dunlap, John Geis, Teddy Gottwald, Marc Guevremont, Keith Hannabass, Mark Heslep, Franklin Hudgins, Andy Jones, Pete Kattmann, Kevin Keilty, Charlie Luck, Dan Martin, Ivan Marcotte, Malachi Mills, Cal Murray, Brad Norwood, Jim Outland, Craig Palmore, Chris Peta, Keith Sawyer, Ritch Seymour, Chip Shirley, Tim Shobbrook, Drew Smith, Lynn Seldon, Matt Waring, Gene Warren, Mark Waters, and Spence Westbrook. My sincere apologies to anyone I may have inadvertently overlooked. I always close our update with a simple request: Stay connected with one another and continue sharing your news and activities. While your updates are essential to putting together our quarterly class notes, their greater value is in what they represent—an ongoing thread of connection that reminds us we are still present in each other’s lives, even as time and distance separate us. As summer approaches, I extend my best wishes to each of you and your families for a season filled with rest, good health, and meaningful time together. —Jamie
1984
Sam Browne
Dear Brother Rats, Greetings. I hope you’re all enjoying what’s left of spring as it starts to give way to summer. As you will see from the length of class notes and submissions, we need to step up our game. Please
keep the cards, letters, and photos coming. A quick update from my end: I have been keeping busy—mostly with doctors’ appointments. I spent March 2026 in Trinidad and Tobago, where I had the pleasure of reconnecting with several mates from elementary school. I could not remember many of the stories they recounted, and I was thankful I had not asked them to speak on my behalf during any security clearance process. I was blessed to connect with several aunts and uncles, as well. In sum, I’m still trying to adjust to this new phase of life called retirement; it’s not for the faint of heart. On the bright side, the house is getting plenty of attention, and I’ve already completed—or at least supervised—several long-delayed projects from the honey-do list. Bill Seaver and Mike Kay reached out to remind me of the June 14 Region XIV VMI day with the Nationals. I hope to see the usual suspects in attendance. I will report all sightings during the next update. Frank Kollmansperger provided a wonderful update for the recent send-off for Carlos Zamora. Carlos and his lovely wife, Meredith, are moving to Chattanooga, Tennessee, in May to be close to their daughter, who will be a doctor in Nashville. Congrats, Carlos! The great crowd included Mark Morgan, Jamie Shoemaker, Steve Reardon, Steve Barsamian, Andy Anderson, Wilson Enochs, Hal Hamner, Steve Hupp, and Super Rat Chris Caplice, who happened to be in town visiting his dad. Frank, I will make it to Richmond one of these days. Keep the invites coming. Henry Budzinski emailed and shared that the Highland County Board of Supervisors, which passed a resolution at its March 2026 meeting opposing HB1377. Keith Buckley said he planned to stop reading articles about the legislative assault on VMI. He also shared one of his recurring dreams about starting over at VMI at his current age. The worst part? In the dream, he had forgotten to attend classes and formations and had already racked up a year of room confinement and 1,000 penalty tours. Tom Gillespie checked in to report that the infamous Room 157 crew reunited at Jim Scanlon’s place at Smith Mountain Lake in October 2025. Tom, Jim, and Henry Richie were there, but Scott Wilson couldn’t make it. Tom Ferguson called to check in. He’s keeping busy—working and raising a high schooler. I can relate, Tom; I’ve got one of those, too. Congratulations to Thomas Amador and Kathie Douglas on their April 11 wedding. I don’t have a photo to share yet, but I hope to include one in the next edition.
Class of 1984: Henry Ritchie, Tom Gillespie, and Jim Scanlon, former roommates, at Jim’s home at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, in October 2025. Well, this is all for now. Please remember our fallen brother rats with a toast. Take care of yourselves, brother rats, and let me know who or what we need to put the spotlight on next time around. Good night, BR Grinnell, wherever you are tonight.
1985
Bill Wieners
’85: What up!? Here I sit in Lexington enjoying the peace of the place ... surrounded by greenery, good energy, and cardinals! I know there is an old saying about cardinals, but I can’t remember what it is, but man, they are everywhere I go. Come back to Lex for a visit; there is plenty of ice, cigars, and room on the deck. As far as I know, ’85 is OK, though we have had a few of the guys in the weeds health-wise, and they are recovering ... that’s good news. Please don’t forget to keep everyone in ’85 and their loved ones in your prayers; as you know, there are lots of folks that need our prayers. I’ve spoken to many of you recently, and it’s weddings this and grandchildren that! You guys are all over the place! But what a blessing it is for all of us in the VMI family! There is nothing better than the joy of ’85 families continuing to grow and thrive. Jim Begley sends: “Bill, good morning! I hope 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes their chainsaws and did most of this finds you well. I was invitthe heavy lifting over the course ed to speak at Fort Meade and of a Saturday, helping me to clean had the pleasure of meeting U.S. up the mess around my place. I’m Air Force Lieutenant Sibi Bagaextremely grateful. They worked vathy ’23 and U.S. Army Lieuhard and knocked it out for me. tenant Noah Goldsmith ’22, son I wasn’t good for much at the of BR Kyle Goldsmith. It was time, and it would have taken me great to be back with our young a month of Saturdays to get done service members, even for just a what they did in 1 day. As helpful short while. Take care and hope to as they were, I know in my heart see you at the safari if not soonthat theirs is the spirit that still er! Cheers! Jim.” resonates within most of us still. Dave Wood sends: “Hey, Bill, After all these years, the bonds I hope you have been well and are still strong. Though our home are headed to the safari this year. there is now gone, just this week, Here’s an update from me for the Class of 1985: Bill Wieners, Cedric Wins, and Terry Ormsby at the Soldiers the finishing touches were comclass notes: I intended to semi-reto Sidelines Legacy of Leadership dinner at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Washington, D.C., Feb. 27, 2026. pleted for a small cabin that will tire and moved to Mission Beach allow Pam and me to get back up in North Queensland, Australia. there on at least a part-time basis, and the ground I spent a lot of last year making nearly noth- one reunion sometime soon.” Jack Emerson sends: “Hey, Bill. Yes, here’s an is now being cleared for the house that will evening but banged out a book to help other veterupdate, long overdue. As I think is well known tually become our new home. As long as it has ans overcome chronic pain. I’m now thankfully pain free and have been for the past 4 years. by now, our home at Fancy Gap burned down in taken to build this cabin (I should have allowed The book should be published soon. I’ll let you late 2024. We also suffered lots of hurricane-re- Tingley and Neblett to build it for me, as they know if I remember. So, with time on my hands, lated damage to our property in 2024, and I have offered to do), I just hope to live long enough to I decided to get licensed as an Australian mari- been unable to clear out the fallen trees due to see the new house built. So with my return now to a back injury that’s turned me into a wimp. But Southwest Virginia, you can expect to see me this ner so I could drive boats commercially. I completed the certification for Master <24m vessels, the BR spirit remains strong, and this past No- fall for some home football games and probably which allows me to stand navigational watches on vember, Neblett and Tingley showed up with some basketball games, as well. Finally, note to class: It’s not a good idea to grill on your porch. vessels up to 100 meters. It’s almost like being in ’85, ’85, ’85.” the Navy again, except no weapons and much less Be safe and well! sleep deprivation. I also completed a marine diesel Best, course to maintain inboard diesels on commercial Bill vessels. Finally, I’ve been helping a friend in Brisbane sail his new sailboat, which has been pretty awesome. Now the consulting work is starting to take off again in earnest. I’ll be building IT data centers in shipping containers for delivery to Clint Hubbard mines, refineries, and other sorts of remote sites. My health is outstanding, and my fitness has returned. Be well and take care of everyone. See you
1986
Class of 1985: Jessie Waltz and Gary McClelland.
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Class of 1985: U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Sibi Bagavathy ’23, Jim Begley, and U.S. Army 1st Lt. Noah Goldsmith ’22 at Fort Meade, Maryland.
Greeting, Brother Rats and All of Our ’86 Groupies! It is time for another volume of class notes, and these are being finalized on New Market Day. Hopefully, you may have tipped a toast to the courage and devotion to duty that is the legacy of the New Market cadets. These class notes may or may not be filled with “quibbling, half-truths, and evasive answers.” Let’s get on with it. Just after the last batch of notes was submitted, I got an update from one of our best correspondents, so she will be the leadoff batter this quarter. Suzi Mays checked in to offer an update on big ol’ R.O. Mays himself. Suzi’s words were, “We
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Class Notes both know he would never send in updates, so I feel it is my responsibility to let everyone know he is alive and kicking.” Thanks, Suzi, for taking care of our boy. Sister Rat Mays reports that she and Ronnie are grandparents for the second time and have a granddaughter along with a grandson. “G-Pa and Susu” stay busy with these two blessings, as they only live about 15 minutes away. R.O. is loving retirement and hitting the links as much as he can. Apparently, his young grandson loves golf, and G-Pa is helping develop his game. Suzi also reports that she and BR Mays are spending a lot of time on the high seas on various cruises. Seven cruises over the past 2 years—fully retired and playing a lot of golf. I guess we can see that R.O. Mays has the world by the tail! Thanks for a great update, Suzi; and tell Ronnie his BRs say, “Hello.” Obviously, the big news this quarter is an update on the 40th Reunion. It’s always a fluid number, but we had about 100-105 or so BRs and about 60plus wives, girlfriends, and significant others. That is about average for our reunions. BR Scott Wagner did his normal bang-up job on the hospitality suite, and it was open for business early Friday afternoon. Plenty of drinks and snacks for everyone as we greeted one another and commenced the weekend. If the windows and doors business ever goes south, he can turn Custom View into Custom Catering and never miss a paycheck. Thanks, Wags! Our Friday night event was the traditional BBQ at McKethan Park catered by Hogback Mountain BBQ, who did their usual excellent job with pulled pork, chicken, and all the accouterments. Scott Wagner and his mobile hospitality team of Paul Burch and Stew Barnes had plenty of tunes and cold beers for the enjoyment of all. After the sun set, we repaired to the hospitality suite, and I believe Gordon Poindexter and Adam Loveless shut it down Friday night into Saturday morning. One of the first attendees at the BBQ was Clayton Thomas, who passed along that he is celebrating 36 years with VDOT in their Chester, Virginia, office, and is still going strong. Well done, Clayton. It was also great to see Henry Ingram, who checked in for his first trip back to a reunion since 1986. Henry recently retired from a law enforcement career in San Diego, California. BR Ingram looks like he could still do some high jumping down at the pit. Thanks for making the trip, Henry, and hope you’ll come back often. We were also joined by a few cadets who have been our Class of 1986 Scholarship awardees in the past few years. They are stalwart young men who
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are on the men’s soccer team. They enjoyed interacting with the Old Corps and meeting ’86 stalwarts like Eddie Plucinski and Dave Shin, who are former Keydet soccer players. Eddie Brow still holds the VMI soccer team record for saves in one game with 20-some saves in a game against UVA in about 1985. Thanks to all who took a few minutes to speak with the cadets—including Dale Powell, Tim Macaulay, Chris Kanter, Eddie Talbott, Jon French, Mike Davis, Brett Hayes, Al Comer, Dan Monahan, Remi Thompson, Pat Farrell, Mark Laughon, Brent McManis, and many other BRs. It really meant something to the cadets to be treated so well by the alumni they are striving to become. Saturday morning dawned clear, and we all began to assemble on post for our class picture at Preston Library, followed by the reunion parade. The Class of 1976 delivered their 50th Reunion check to the superintendent. As he thanked them, Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87 also welcomed the other reunion classes and made mention of his “appreciation” for how well the Class of 1986 received him when he matriculated as a rat. Saturday afternoon was a leisure afternoon as everyone prepped for our class dinner Saturday night. Truth be told, I think more than a few old dogs got in their hays for an afternoon nap. Some guys watched the final practice of spring football—we have a new coach. Of note, BR Scott Wilson works with the football program at Benedictine High School in Richmond, and they have nine former players on the Keydet roster—either as scholarship or walk-on players. Well done, BR Wilson! Our class dinner Saturday night was held at The Georges in downtown Lexington. It was a capacity crowd, but the meal was very good, and I think the bar kept up with everyone throughout the evening. In some opening remarks and a prayer, BR Tim Keilty remembered our departed BRs with a moment of silence and then a blessing for the meal. In solemn remembrance, the list of our deceased BRs includes Scott Bradley, Doug Brennan, John Butler, Andre Creel, James Dickinson, Meade Edmonds, John Hair, John Kiefer, William Matt, Curry May, Mike Northrop, Chris Poage, Paul Simroth, Rob Ramos, George Varlas, Linton Walsh, Putnam Wolcott, and Gary Yap. All good men and fair specimens of citizen-soldiers who left us too early. After dinner, Scott Wagner offered some after dinner remarks about the legacy of the Class of 1986 after 40 years. It was a collaborative effort we had prepared together, and BR Wagner gave me more credit for writing the words. I may have put pen to paper, but the brother rats of the Class of
1986 actually wrote the words in their deeds over the last 40 years. And BR Wagner’s masterful delivery was met with great enthusiasm. It is offered here again for your fulfillment. “On the occasion of our 40th Reunion, it occurred to me that we should perhaps do more than gather for a couple of meals and share some laughs with one another. Perhaps we should take a moment and reflect on the journey of 40 years. “So, if you’ll indulge me, I’d like to do just that. I hope that this brief reflection might bring a sense of satisfaction, as well as help you stand up a little taller, hold your head a little higher, and maybe even give you a little swagger in your steps as we depart tomorrow. “A couple of years ago, I was attending a meeting at VMI for alumni volunteers. Also attending that meeting was Jim Dittrich ’76. You may remember Jim as a TAC when we were cadets. In the course of our conversation, Jim told me he enjoys reading the ’86 class notes. He remarked that, having known us as cadets, he was interested to read how many of us turned out as adults. He went as far as to say that he was genuinely surprised to read about some of us and learn that we had indeed become good citizens. He marveled at how successful many of us had become on the whole. “In a roundabout way, he gave us a compliment when he said something to the effect, ‘You guys were a bit of an unconventional class. Your bond was tighter than most classes, and you had a independent streak.’ I took that as a compliment. Those were Jim’s impressions of us from 1986— maybe he didn’t have great expectations for us in the real world? “In contrast, if you look in the 1986 Bomb on page 175, our class historian, Scott Wagner, wrote these words in May 1986: ‘Upon graduation, we the Class of ’86 had the utmost confidence that we were the VMI men we had been striving to be for 4 long years. We will always be VMI men, holding our bond strong to an intruder, and striving for excellence at every turn. We have made a name for ourselves and will forever succeed in the game of life.’—D. Scott Wagner, historian ’86. “Now, Jim Dittrich’s surprise notwithstanding, you have made Brother Rat Wagner a prophet— and in the next few minutes, I’m going to validate it for you. When I look around this room tonight, I see achievement and excellence. I see men who have become what they resolved to be—VMI men. Men of principle and character and honor. Men of accomplishment in their varied career vocations. I see engineers, businessmen, entrepreneurs. I see career military veterans, law enforcement professionals, educators, bankers, financiers,
Class Notes financial advisors, clergymen, civil servants, defense contractors, airline pilots, real estate developers, doctors, lawyers. “We have a BR who serves on the VMI Board of Visitors. We have a BR who became a judge. We have a BR who became a major general. We have a BR who became a state legislator in New York. We have five or six BRs in the VMI Sports Hall of Fame. We have three BRs who are immortalized in the Hall of Valor in Marshall Hall. The shadow boxes of their decorations are on display for all to see in perpetuity. (We have one BR who is a minister and one BR in prison for a net zero in that category.) But that’s not all. “I look around this room tonight, and I see a group of men who persevered the 4-year endurance test that is the VMI experience. Truth be told, I see some who stretched those 4 years into 5 years—or even 6 or 7 years. I recall coming back to our 5th Reunion and we had a BR or two who came to the reunion functions in grey blouse because they were finishing up their degree. But that perseverance speaks to the never-say-die attitude and their determination to finish what they started. “With the attainment of the VMI sheepskin, our education was just beginning. I look around this room, and I see a lot of graduate degrees. I see master’s degrees and even a few Ph.Ds. I see a forestry degree. I see men who have achieved professional designations and certifications like M.D., P.E., Series 7, Series 63, admission to the bar, and many others. I see men who have served with distinction in professional organizations related to their career field. I look around this room tonight and I see men of commitment. I see husbands and fathers. How many Ring Figure dates are here tonight? “I know of three guys who are not here tonight because they have daughters who are getting married in the near future, and they had commitments this weekend related to the upcoming nuptials. Good fathers who will be giving their daughters away to men who won’t be nearly good enough for them. “I look around this room tonight, and I see men who have faithfully served their church or religious affiliation. I see deacons, elders, vestryman, or whatever is the leadership position in their denominations and churches. They’ve chaired committees and served as they’ve been called. “I look around this room tonight, and I see civic volunteers and participants. I see guys who have served as youth sports coaches and referees, scout leaders, youth group leaders, chaperones for a multitude of activities. Men who belong to Rotary Clubs, Lions Clubs, Kiwanis Clubs, Ruritan Clubs, and the like. Men who give back to their communities and serve their fellow citizens.
“I look around this room tonight, and I see men who believe in VMI with all of their hearts and minds. They recognize the difference the VMI experience has made in their lives. They support the school and give generously so that future cadets may have a similar experience. Do I need to continue? Are you getting the realization about the impact of the VMI Class of 1986 has made over the past 40 years? “I’d like us to raise a toast to one another. But before we do that, I want you to reach over to the guy next to you—stand up if you have to—pat him on the back and say, ‘Well done, brother rat.’ Now, raise a glass. ‘To the VMI Class of 1986. For yesterday, today, and tomorrow.’ “God Bless the VMI Class of 1986. God Bless the Institute. And may God bless the United States of America.” After a rousing round of applause for a serious testimony of the success of the men of 1986, we settled back in for part two of the evening. This was a light-hearted trivia game challenging us to “Name the BR,” followed by a recollection of a misdeed or some other transgression by a BR from the times of our cadetship. Stew Barnes and your class agent made these questions come to life as we embellished and filled in the blanks on some of the activities of a group of wayward youths from 40-some odd years ago. It was fun to formulate the questions, fun to deliver them, and it seemed as if everyone enjoyed them and the stroll down “memory stoop.” Brett Hayes took the mic for a moment to rightfully recognize the BRs who had traveled long distances to attend the reunion—Chris Ashworth came from Denmark, Mike Laban came from Zimbabwe, Bruce Nickle from Arizona, and Henry Ingram and Bill Anderson from California. As we wound down the dinner and program, Lt. Gen. Dave Furness ’87 stopped by to say hello, and many guys seemed to appreciate the opportunity to greet him and wish him well. We returned to the hotel, and the hospitality suite was again filled with laughter and good cheer as we further reminisced and shared laughs and cocktails with one another. Jon Aycock was jonesing for a calzone from Frank’s Pizza in Lexington, and when his desire could not be satiated, he pivoted and ordered 10 pizzas from Domino’s which were thoroughly enjoyed and devoured. Thanks, BR Aycock! All in all, the 40th was a good time. We should note some of the BRs who were attending their first reunion—or in some cases, their first reunion in more than a few years. This list would include Bill Anderson, Mike Colletti, Jim Dillon, Tom deVenoge, Duke Ellington, Tom FitzPatrick,
Dan Hooker, Henry Ingram, Mike Laban, John McConnell, Marc Moquin, Bruce Nickle, Rob Padgett, Dave Parker, John Stanek, Steve Sinclair, Luke Varner, Rich Weede, and Scott Wilson. The attendance by BR Laban deserves special mention for a consortium of BRs who “made it happen,” including spearhead efforts by Duke Ellington and Troy Heskett. It takes more than a little effort (and some $) to bring someone from Africa to Lex-Vegas. Well done, Duke and Troy! Of course, many of the dependable stalwarts attended, as usual. Greg Simpson from Alabama, Mark Black from FUMA, Rick Chambers from Hotlanta, Darryl Agee from Bent Mountain, Jim Agostini from Columbia, Ron Jaworowski from Rock Hill, Dave “Papa G” Grimm from NOVA, David Sheckells from Florida, Eric Butner from Dayton, and “Father” Troy Lanier who came in from Utah and used Jim Taggart as his Uber and personal valet. It seemed to work out exceedingly well for Troy. Tom deVenoge is living in Florida and may have succeeded where Ponce de Leon did not in finding the fountain of youth. The dude looks like he might could step into his coatee from 1986. Bruce Nickle is a close second to Thomas P. in the fountain of youth department. Arizona seems to be treating him well. Joe Schinstock was squiring a lovely lady, and it had him on his best behavior— we like her! Bob Cabell was a runaway for the GQ best dressed in his natty seersucker suit at dinner. Adam Loveless has the easiest hairstyle that is less than a rat haircut, although he’ll need a good hat as he’s soon to be moving to Arizona to keep tabs on Bruce Nickle now that BR Nickle is back in the fold. Jeff Smiley has given up the “Bedford Forrest look” for a “Santa Claus look”—but not to worry, he still has the same vintage 1984 T-shirt. I could do this on and on but need to wind these up and submit them. A couple of last items: We are in process of establishing a Class of 1986 communications channel outside of the VMI Alumni Association. It is a Signal group, and Stew Barnes is heading up the effort which already has over 60 members. It will allow us to communicate quicker and more informally. To join the group, reach out to Stew or me, and we’ll get you added to the group. I would be remiss if I didn’t offer adequate thanks for the help with the 40th Reunion planning and execution—it was a team effort on so many levels. Thanks especially to Scott Wagner for his always sage advice and for once again heading up the hospitality suite; that is always the focal point of the weekend, and BR Wagner makes certain is well-stocked with something for everyone. His assistance with the after-dinner remarks 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes was just perfect. Paul Burch rode shotgun with me all day Friday as we checked on final arrangements and made a beer run for the Friday night libations. Stew Barnes encouraged and helped with the trivia questions and game, as well as making a couple of ice runs to keep things “chill.” The Richmond taco Tuesday group (John Stevens, Jon Moody, Wayne Fuller, Gordon Poindexter, Paul Burch, Brett Hayes, and others) was the focus group who gave feedback to the itinerary and menu as well as the trivia questions, etc. As I said, I often get more credit than I should, and I’m humbled and grateful for your appreciation, but the bottom line is that it’s a team effort and I’m thankful for the Whole Damn Team. It is an honor to serve the mighty Class of 1986. That’s a wrap for this quarter. When these notes appear in print, football season will be upon us, so hopefully we’ll see one another cheering on some Keydet victories. Take care, brother rats.
1987
Bill McCarthy
Brother Rats, This is the first time in 4 years I have waited to the very last minute to pull these notes together, so I apologize if they are not up to my usual submission standards. This past winter quarter of 2026 was full of events and happenings to report, so let’s get on with the show. As we get ready for the 40th Reunion April 22–24, 2027, I am going to try to “quiet quit” this assignment and pray that someone wants to “steal” this honor from me to proudly be the class agent for the best class in barracks. This was the second annual ski trip for seven of us, and we changed venue this year from Utah to Montana. Todd Arris, Mike Williamson, Monte Ferguson, Bill Callahan, Jay Nagle, Wilson Brown, and I met out at the Big Sky Resort outside of Bozeman, Montana. This was big mountain skiing with a horrible winter snowpack, but we had a blast, as always. Mike and I decided to drag each other into the deep end of the pool, and we skied some powder that my 18-year-old self would have really enjoyed. The rest of the boys were bombing down the groomers and enjoying the libations. Mike tried to teach us a card game that gave him a 100% chance of victory. Wilson turned into Rip Van Winkle, and the rest of us fought to see who could pay the bill at dinner. Needless to say, we
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are headed back west one more time. Todd Arris is still out in Northern California working in commercial real estate development. Mike Williamson owns a steel fabricating business in San Diego. Bill Callahan splits time between Maine and Annapolis while he ponders his next steps after a corporate merger. Monte Ferguson runs a financial services supervisory firm out of Fort Worth. Wilson Brown is down in Greenville, North Carolina, fabricating electrical panels for a large distributor. Jumping Jay Nagle is a partner at a nationwide highway contractor. Finally, I work for you guys as class agent and a side hustle in the financial services world. One of the more enjoyable moments was sitting with these guys and just randomly calling brother rats. Given how late it was in Montana, we stuck with BRs on the West Coast. As usual, a pondering question like, “What is that guy doing now? Well, let’s call them and find out!” We had a long conversation with Tom Voytko and Warren Michaelson, as well as Jay Pennigton and others. Tom is still out in the Pacific Northwest. Jay Pennington opened a franchise metal fabrication business for hobbyists. Warren is planning on retiring to the mountains of Washington state. Sadly, the kid from Montclair, New Jersey, is never phoning home. The quarter was filled with great updates from so many of you. As always, I apologize for those I may have forgotten during this quarter. I had a great chat with Vernie Reichling. Vernie remains an avid outdoorsman, and he spends a lot of time with Steve Cade hunting and fishing. I am spending a lot of time in Florida visiting aging parents, so I told him I would try to host a Tampa event next time I am down. While visiting my parents in West Palm Beach,
I dragged Mike Maxwell out to Wellington to watch some sports and catch up on what has been going on lately. Max is still retired; both girls are out of college; and his wife, Joy, is still teaching. I try to keep everyone who is not near Lexington in touch with what is happening, and Max is the southernmost BR in the continental U.S. Andy Kestner and Tim Guck may dominate the Southern Hemisphere, but that does not count. Speaking of Florida, Adrian Garcia called me as he was heading up to a board meeting at the Institute. He called to ask me if the ground was shaking as he crossed the border in the Commonwealth. He gives me the Owen Curley update frequently, and it is always great to hear from the Jacksonville contingency. One of the usual questions I get is, “How is Superintendent Dave Furness doing?” It would be easier to list those who didn’t see Dave this quarter. He has adopted the role of road warrior, and he is smothering and covering the U.S./VMI alumni groups by telling the VMI story ... to use a Waffle House analogy. There are a multitude of photos on the VMI ’87 class page on Facebook, so I cannot get them all in this issue. Dr. Neal Naff opened his home in Baltimore to host the Baltimore alumni group and any ’87 brother rat. Paul Duray, Bill Seifrith, and Bill Callahan turned out. In Los Angeles, Jay Arnaiz and Robert Burns sent a photo with Dave. I saw Dave after the VMI scholarship luncheon in Lexington. Jack McCarthy and Gen. Trip Bowles were in attendance, whilst I went to the VMI lacrosse win. Gen. Bowles is now retired Gen. Bowles as of the end of 2025. Trip lives across the street from me, and we have become close friends in an odd couple kind of way. Lt. Gen. Chip Bierman sent me a text 3 days
Class of 1987: Retired U.S. Army Col. Paul Duray; Dr. Neal Naff, Lt. Gen. David Furness, superintendent; U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Bill Callahan; and William Seiferth at Neal’s home in Baltimore, Maryland.
Class Notes that the pride of Oakton High School, after his birthday to verify that Mr. Scott Jones, will be making the he is doing well in College Statrip soon. Scott and I went to high tion. After 4 years, this is the ususchool together, and I blame/thank al lag response time from Chip. I him for introducing me to VMI. I was think if I were running the operagoing to Norwich because they had tions for the United States Marine their own ski slope until Scott shared Corps, I might have to prioritize the VMI brochure during chemistry Fatdog text and emails. There is class. a great picture of our two threeThe number of BRs starting to mistar Marine generals at the U.S. grate toward Lexington is growing as Naval Academy. Dave and Chip the retirement announcements arrive. were invited (summoned) by the Bruce Bones is enjoying semi-retirecommandant of the Naval Acadment after the sale of his business emy, who happens to be a threeand spending more time in Lexingstar Marine general, as well. So, ton. He joined to cheer on the Keyif you are following along, VMI, dets to victory. Dave Smith lives Texas A&M, and USNA are all outside of town in Fairfield. Steve run by Marines! Very impressive, Class of 1987: Jay Arnaiz and Robert Burns with Lt. Gen. David Furness, Wilson and Chaplain Bob Phillips indeed, but rumor has it they are superintendent, in Los Angeles, California, in spring 2026. are in Waynesboro. Reynolds Rencolluding to remove calculus from shaw and I enjoyed a cocktail from the entrance exams ... insert wink his abode off the Blue Ridge Parkemoji. All joking aside, one of the way overlooking Afton, Virginia. highest honors I have been granted Troy Clark, Rick Cruze, and Keith as class agent was to attend the reCoffey are all full-time residents of tirement ceremonies of both Dave the Buena Vista/Lexington corridor. and Chip. Todd Williamson and I both spend Bob Buxton has been retired for time in Wintergreen, which is only a few years now and splits time an hour away. All this to say we have between Myrtle Beach and Michour 40th Reunion coming up April igan. Bob had a long career in the 22–24, 2027, so you better post! pulp and paper industry, running A few years back when we had a plants in Franklin, Virginia, and mini reunion at Jay Nagle’s house, I Georgetown, South Carolina. He was tasked with tracking down some gets together with fellow Band BRs who had not been heard from in Company alums Drew Campi and Class of 1987: Charlie Early, Kevin Reardon, Bob Hinson, and Mark a long time. I was able to tick a few Ken Devero. Anyone following Barth, all former members of Company D. this quarter. I had a text chain with Drew on Facebook will know he Ernie “The Hammer” Sacco. He is is living his best life in retirement with all the travel and entertainment he posts. Un- more people are enjoying our fourth quarter. As still in upstate New York, and I hope to have a I implore everyone I call, take the time to recon- longer report next period. Although I am more fortunately for Drew, his travel pales in compariElmer Fudd in the hunting world, I was able to nect with your BRs. Paul Munson and his rugson to Terry Sutherland. Brad “Slick” Johnson, bag a big trophy. Alpha Company stud, quarterthe pride of Franklin, Virginia, not to be confused ger buddy, Chris Peckham, were at the Munson with Franklin County’s finest, is living large in home in the Outer Banks. Peckham obviously back extraordinaire, and the pride of Johnstown, the Raleigh area. He has been in the paper indus- has an internal thermometer that alerts the north- Pennsylvania, Mr. John Chicoli, has been tagged. John “Chico” Chicoli and I talked for over an ern migration from Naples back to New Hamptry for many a year. Terry and Joy Sutherland have literally paint- shire. When Florida temperatures crest 90 de- hour, and now I know why he has been off the grid. My man has got a lot going on in his role as grees and humidity hits 80%, it is time to get the ed the globe over the last 2 years. I am sure he a senior VP at Boeing! John lives outside PhilaRV back to the great Northeast. had to get at least two new passports because he Kevin McClung has been self-producing and delphia, and he manages the Sikorsky helicopter ran out of pages to stamp! If I get to half the placdistributing his music in Nashville for many years. maintenance operations for the deployed fleets es they have been, I will be satisfied. across all branches of the military. More imporWalter Via is still teaching at Mary Washington He has been putting out a lot of social media contantly, his passion is mentoring young people (inand at the local high school. He lives in Freder- tent, which has been fun to watch. Bill Fuller, icksburg and posts on scientific matters related to my old co-dyke, is also in Nashville working as sert VMI grads) during their careers. One of the a corporate recruiter. Bill has an open-door policy common themes across our class is our willingclimate change and other topics. ness to reach back and pull up those around us. to anyone who wants to fly fish, drink bourbon, Jim Greene is hanging up his hard hat and enjoying a well-earned retirement. We are getting to and smoke cigars at his cabin in Kentucky. This is The list is too long to repeat here, but thank you on my bucket list when and if I retire. He did say to so many of you from the Class of ’87 that take the age where work is becoming past tense, and 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes need to celebrate that experience! As a class, we respect our differences, we support and celebrate our successes, and we come together as one. Please support your brother rats and plan on attending. To this day, the Class of ’87 is still the best class in barracks. I hope to see you next April. Dog
1988
John Keppeler
Class of 1987: Steve Cade and Vernie Reichling on a spring turkey hunt in Florida. time to mentor, advise, and support other cadets. Given that most of my calls occur at 0800, there are many quick, “Happy birthday, BR!” calls. Talked to Tim Chester during a history class at Benedictine. Todd Burdette put his boss on hold to take my call. I leave a lot of messages and get the text later in the day. Again, I am sure I am leaving plenty of people out of this quarter’s notes, but I really do appreciate you and hope we are start living our best life. Did I mention our 40th Reunion is around the corner? As we finalize plans, I will be sharing information through email but most likely through the class’ Facebook page. Again, not my first rodeo, and I have already reached out to many people to help organize who will complement each other and maximize participation. Amazingly, we are only 2 weeks into the reunion planning year, and I am already getting great ideas from Rock Hudson and Tom Peer. As a reminder, I offered to be the class agent for a second stint on the hope we could reunite and can get as many of us together as possible in Lexington. This is a non-football weekend, but I plan on making it worth your effort to be there. I try to be positive during these quarterlies, and I truly enjoy talking with everyone. I get a ton of laughs, and it’s a great way to start my day. I also know there are many BRs who are fighting health issues I don’t share with the class. It is a reminder to me and to you that our reunion is not about the Institute, but a celebration of a ragtag group of knuckleheads pressing up that hill of science who share a common bond. We
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Greetings, Brother Rats, I hope everyone is doing well and has had a good summer! I am writing this in May, and the hot weather hasn’t kicked in yet ... thankfully! Anyway, I think we had a pretty good spring. If you remember, back in February, there was quite a bit of “hoopla” concerning the newly elected Virginia governor and delegates. Most of that has died down now regarding VMI, thanks in large part to our superintendent—at least, I hope so! Anyway, as I understand it, there is a tradition for interest groups to hold receptions to meet and greet the members of the General Assembly. VMI hosted one of these receptions at the Library of Virginia Feb. 19, 2026. This provided an opportunity for staff, cadets, and alumni to introduce themselves to legislators and showcase VMI. As usual, our cadets stole the show, looking sharp and just presenting themselves and VMI in a very favorable light. Really, if you haven’t talked to a VMI cadet lately, they are really impressive ... smart, confident, well spoken, and really just impressive young men and women! I
had never been to one of these receptions before, but I thought I would brave the bustling city of Richmond on a cold, rainy night to see what it was all about. While at the reception, I ran into BRs— Bobby Clark, Ted Wagner, John Williams, Sean Cantrell, and Frank deVenoge—and we managed to wrangle the superintendent, Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87, for a photo. Apparently, Charles Nelson is keeping the Richmond crew together down south. Kirk Dewyea sent me a picture of their latest Richmond breakfast March 6, 2026. In attendance were Sean Cantrell, Don Calder, Frank de Venoge, Kirk Dewyea, Jill Perretta (John Scarpino’s girlfriend), John Scarpino, Chris Long, and Mack Carr. Good work, Charles, and gang; keep it up! As you probably saw from some of my emails, the Virginia War Memorial Foundation hosted a Salute to Service Reunion Celebration March 21, 2026, honoring veterans and especially those who paid the ultimate price during Operation Desert Storm, including our brother rat, Terry Plunk.
Class of 1988: Having breakfast at McLean’s Restaurant in Richmond, Virginia, March 6, 2026, are (from left) Sean Cantrell; Don Calder; Frank DeVenoge; Kirk Dewyea; Jill Perretta, John Scarpino’s girlfriend; John; Chris Long; and Mack Carr.
Class of 1988: Having lunch at the Cadillac Ranch in National Harbor, Maryland, May 15, 2026, are (from left) Wayne Sinclair, Steve Neary, Derek McFarland, John Keppeler, Stewart King, Hugh McMenamin, Michael Owen, Lew Sigmon, and John Williams.
Class Notes The foundation really put on a first-rate celebration, dedicating the whole day to speeches, panels, exhibits, and presentations. Apparently, this is the first of a number of reunion celebrations they are planning to have. The celebration ended by paying special tribute to those who passed during Desert Storm by reading a short biography and laying a wreath under the veteran’s name engraved on the Shrine of Memory. Terry’s brigade commander, Lt. Gen. Flowers ’69, read Terry’s bio and provided some very nice personal remarks, as well. Sam Russell carried and laid Terry’s wreath and was accompanied by Bobby Clark, Jim Tuemler, Drew McKone, Bill Reagan, and Mark Arboneaux. Also in attendance were Scott Miller, Wayne Sinclair, Andy McAllister, Kirk Dewyea, Charles Nelson, Sam Tate, Ed Wetherell, Ted Wagner, and myself. After the celebration, we all went out to a little BBQ joint for dinner that Charles Nelson organized. We had a great time and were able to socialize in a more private setting. During this dinner, Jim Tuemler’s wife, Kim, passed out invitations to Jim’s 60th birthday party to be held at their house in Charleston, South Carolina, April 18, 2026. I wasn’t able to attend, but by the looks of the photo, Roscoe Davis, John Bordelon, Mark Arboneaux, and John MacMichael helped Jim celebrate, and a good time was had by all! I had a really nice phone call with Bobby Gardner; he says he is doing very well and reports all scans, tests, etc. are looking good. He and his bride just took a camping trip to Camp Pendleton, California, and had a really nice time ... nothing like watching amphibious operations while on vacation! He also said he’s planning to sell his laundromat soon but plans to stay in California. I told him I’m planning to visit family in Southern California in August, and I just might show up on his doorstep. In all seriousness, it looks like our prayers for Bobby are
Class of 1988: Attending the Salute to Service Reunion Celebration for Operation Desert Storm at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond, Virginia, March 21, 2026, are (from left) Scott Miller, Bobby Clark, Wayne Sinclair, Andy McAlister, Kirk Dewyea, Mark Arboneaux, Charles Nelson, Sam Russell, Bill Reagan, Jim Tuemler, Sam Tate, Ed Wetherell, John Keppeler, Ted Wagner, and Drew McKone.
Class of 1988: Roscoe Davis, John Bordelon, Mark Arboneaux, Jim Tuemler, and John MacMichael attend Jim’s birthday party in Charleston, South Carolina, April 18, 2026.
Class of 1988: Attending the Legislative Reception at the Library of Virginia in Richmond, Virginia, Feb. 19, 2026, are (from left) Bobby Clark; Ted Wagner; Lt. Gen. David Furness ’87, superintendent; John Williams; Sean Cantrell; John Keppeler; and Frank deVenoge.
working, so keep it up! In case you haven’t heard, our BR John Williams is now the president of the VMI Foundation. He and Adam Volant contacted me a few months ago about starting a Call to Duty Scholarship for our class. As you may or may not know, when a cadet is awarded a ROTC scholarship from one of the military branches, it covers tuition only, not room and board. Other schools cover this delta with a separate scholarship; as such, we were losing some quality applicants who otherwise might have chosen VMI. To address this, VMI has started a Call to Duty Scholarship to pay ROTC scholarship cadets’ room and board. Thanks to John, Adam, and other BRs, the Class of 1988 is very close to being the first class to fully fund a Call to Duty scholarship. So if you have questions about this or want to donate, please contact Frank deVenoge at 804-8145607 or fdevenoge@vmiaa.org. If you didn’t know, Frank is now working as a major gifts officer for the VMI Alumni Agencies and can take care of you. Finally on the day I am submitting these notes, May 15, 2026, we had our NOVA lunch at the Cadillac Ranch in National Harbor, Maryland. Normally, we don’t host lunches north of the Potomac, but every so often we have to in order to see BRs from Maryland, etc. In this case, we were blessed with the presence of John Williams and Steve Neary. They are both doing well, and it was great to see them! Also, my old 3rd Class roommate, Stewart King, made a rare appearance. Stewart recently retired from the Office of Naval Research and is living in Fairfax, Virginia. Hopefully he can make it to more lunches and other activities in the future. Other attendees included Wayne Sinclair, Derek McFarland, Hugh McMenamin, Michael Owen, Lew Sigmon, and myself. That’s about it for this quarter; please keep those updates and pics coming. I can be reached at 540-4299041 or john.keppeler@gmail.com. Stay healthy and well! RVM and Semper Fi! Rock 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes
1989
David A. Martin
trips for the last 20-plus years on the Rappahannock. Over the last 30-plus years, I’ve kept in contact with my roommate, BR Dan Bowen. Our families have gotten together over that time, sometimes here in Virginia, sometimes in Indiana at his place. Planning to see Dan again this summer; he’s swinging through town this summer.” Good to hear from you, Zeke; thanks for the mention of Dan Bowen, too. Also, good to hear Pete Wick’s name! BR Wayne Jones is $%#@ on two wheels. Not content with Ironman Triathlons (he has done several) and 100-mile bicycle rides through Death Valley, he has set his amiable but determined gaze on a 350-mile gravel road ride in Iowa. I see him now and then on his training spins as he passes behind my house (milepost 35 on the Washington and Old Dominion Trail). “How far today?” I’ll ask. “Oh, only 100, maybe two,” he’ll reply breezily. In ev’ry clime and place, indeed!
I’m still in Leesburg, Virginia, looking at about 17 more months at the job in the Pentagon (and as I write this on the eve of New Market Day, it’ll be much closer to a year by the time it gets published), and then I hang it up. I won’t be able to lead a life of sybaritic leisure such as BR Fridley leads, but I do look forward to the change. Anyone who’s headed to or through or near Leesburg, feel free to drop in. See you all on these pages, this time next year, if not sooner.
Greetings, All, Many thanks to BR Dave Martin for the opportunity to sub for him once again. We begin on a somber note. BR Mitch Fridley sent a message saying that BR Ken Cobb’s father, Howard Cobb ’62, has passed on. We mourn for BR Ken’s loss. Several Alleghany Daren Payne County luminaries gathered to pay respects. RIP, Mr. Cobb, and may the Old Corps triumphant greet you at the gates of heaven! From BR Nat Cross comes a copious update. Recently, he spied BR Deputy Tom Hamner of Greetings from Finals Week here in Lexington. the Hanover County Sheriff’s Department enI have to start out with the sad news of the passforcing the law in a 7-11 parking lot. Nat also ing of Jim Cox’s son, Max, in a car accident in said that the Hamner family as a whole seems to March on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carbe thriving. He sees a multitude of brother rats at olina. As usual, our class really stepped up in supthe Richmond area ’89 breakfast on the first Friporting Jim and his family during this time. I got day of each month, organized by the great Ned the following note from Jim a couple of weeks Cox. Perhaps I’ll get there one day. Ah, one more ago: “The past month has been one of the most report from the class HUMINT collector—Nat difficult times in my life and in my family’s. said BR Hal Wyatt is returning to the CommonThe notes, calls, and emails we received from wealth after some years abroad in Pennsylvania. our brother rats have been tremendous in helpWelcome home! ing us through this time. It has made me realize BR Chris Crawford responds from high atop that I need to be a better BR always. I have althe Continental Divide, or near enough to it: ways known that our class was a great one, and “Here is a pic of the rainbow trout that I caught that the people I met at VMI are the finest in the [on or about March 29] at 11 Mile Canyon in world, and this experience has proven it to be so.” Colorado. It was 23.5 inches and around 6.25 Class of 1989: Chris Crawford with a perOne can only hope this is the last such tragedy pounds, which is my personal best.” Well done, sonal-best rainbow trout. our class has to face of this nature, as we’ve had BR! far too many. From BR Zeke Moore comes Around post, things are getting this delightly Hemingway-esready for finals week as exams que update: “Went on a trip to are over and the full agenda of paItaly March–April. My first visrades, awards ceremonies, comit to Europe. Wife (Alison) and I missioning, and commencement and Pete Wick ’90 and his wife is about to begin. By the time you (Valerie). Great time, beautiful guys read this, we’ll be resetting country, and wonderful food and everything for matriculation and wine. Spent a few days in Rome the start of another year. and then Cortona (small town in Had a fair number of BRs visiting the Tuscany region). Day trip to post this spring. Chris Callahan Florence. Pompeii and Herculacame down during spring break in neum were highlights for me. SetMarch from New York, and Paul tled on Peroni beer during the trip, Tallat-Kelpsa came down twice and I was digging the fact that a to go fishing with me. Rich Duke large beer is 1 liter. Nice. I live in was also up here in March fishing, the Fredericksburg area, and Pete Class of 1989: Ken Cobb, Harrison Fridley ’61, Mitch Fridley, Clint Hubbard and Barry Johnson and Mike is my ‘fishing buddy.’ We’ve been ’86, and Mike Santoro ’69. Doczi made it up for a baseball fishing and doing camping/canoe
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1990
Class Notes game. Buddy Garbett was in town watching his son at the spring football game in April, and I saw both Ramon and Damon Williams, along with Charles Plageman, in town during the VMI Board of Visitors and VMI Alumni Association meetings. C.J. Bodnar stopped by to see me while he was here being a guest speaker at the annual Environment Virginia Symposium. Locally, I’ve been in touch with John Burleson, who is continuing to try to retire and reduce his workload, as well as Neil Whitmore in the county planning and zoning office. I also heard from Joey Jones, who was applying to fill a vacant seat on the county board of supervisors in addition to his duties as the middle school football coach. I ran into Matt Schwartzmann a couple times around town but haven’t seen BRs Kornegay or Larlee in quite a while. Tim Feagans is in the process of moving to the area here in Lexington this fall, and of course, Ley Havird is right down the street from barracks with a front row seat to all that goes on here. Carlos Fernandes was in town recently checking in on his rental house while en route from his winter place in Florida to Northern Virginia before going back to Portugal. Carlos works with Rob Gudz on NATO cyber security contracts in Portugal, and I’ve been doing some permit and project management work for Carlos on his rental property here in Lexington. I’ve also been working with Hunter Trumbo on permits for some repair work on his 1853 rental property in Winchester. If any other BRs are in need of any kind of building, repair, or environmental permits just hit me up. (Apologies for the shameless plug for my side business!) More recently, I heard from John Lanzilotta and Matt Hemenez, who were trying to figure out how to get a permit to build an ammunition bunker in a small town in Arizona—I know they make movies that start that way, so I’m not going to speculate on what they were up to, but they seem to be doing great and have lots of ammo. I’ve also been in touch pretty regularly with Rich Mehl, who is ready to head back into the workforce now that his kid is almost out of school (if anyone is looking to hire, hit him up), and Mike Mullori and Bob Butler, who check in with me regularly via email. Pat O’Leary reached out recently to let me know he landed a new job as chief counsel for Dewberry (a large engineering firm out of Northern Virginia) following his stint as lead attorney for VMI. We all owe Pat a debt of gratitude, as he took over our chief attorney position at one of the most difficult times in VMI’s recent history, dealing with some of the most sensitive cases you can think—well done, Pat, and it was a pleasure working with you! From the
Class of 1990: John “J.P.” Parrott ’88 and Trey Rhodes at the Letterkenny Army Depot Golf Tournament at the Carlisle Barracks Golf Course in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, in May 2026. Appalachian Trail, I heard from Dave Kaulfers, who was setting out from remote North Georgia and, as of this writing, is probably somewhere in North Carolina. Dave is endeavoring to hike the entire trail while on a 6-month break from his job. You can actually follow Dave’s journey on YouTube. In career news, I noticed that Pete Tunnard is retiring after 30 years with ExxonMobil and a career that has taken him around the world. Not sure what he will do with all the downtime, but I know he has grandkids now to keep busy. Congrats, BR, and welcome to the retired side! On my group chats, I regularly hear from Feagans, Jim Hubbard, Bill Ator, Brad Lawrence, Todd Northrop, and Pablo Martinez, who seem to spend most of their time posting odd pictures of and making comments about Mike Kemp wearing a Burger King crown for some reason. On our other chat, I have Jeff Kaster, who is in the process of moving to Florida; Dave McGraw, who has recently taken up the guitar and is trying to form a band called The Strain Gang; and Jamie Setze, who is in Louisiana near Steve Linder. For this edition’s “lost and found” column, I’m looking to find the following BRs who seem to have disappeared since 1990: Dave Chong, Mark Cumbee, Andy Kim, Jake Schmoyer, Tommy Pegram, Bill Dowd, Kevin Miller, Trey Wetsel, or Dave Robbins. If anyone out there knows the whereabouts of these BRs, please let me know. Right before the deadline, I got a great picture from Trey Rhodes, who was up playing golf with our Army Engineer buddy, John Parrott ’88, at Letterkenny Army Depot in Pennsylvania. About the same time, I also got a picture from Andy Kvasnicka and his rat from ’94 (his “victory lap” year), David Bonner ’94. Also saw Ramil Ibanez,
who was in town for his son’s graduation and final parades and commissioning into the Army. Dave Ratliff checked in right before the deadline from 4,000 feet high atop the mountain outside Roanoke to let me know BRs there were organizing a ’90 get together in Roanoke and trying to make it a regular event. Would be great to loop in Kemp, Bledsoe, Barry Johnson, Moushegian, the Williams twins, and some of the other crowd from the metro Roanoke area. Along the same lines, I saw Don Bowers continues his great work with the Harrisonburg Chapter, hosting watch parties and events. I’m sure Tim Whitt appreciates your great work in Rocktown. In military news, Sean Hoover is still going in the Army Reserve after retiring from ATF and is now going back to work as an investigator for the Department of Homeland Security. I believe Chris Phillips finally hung up the uniform from the Navy Reserve this spring, retiring from the Navy JAG Corps. Garrett Thompson continues in the Army Reserve, as does Lt. Gen. Bill Bowers in the U.S. Marine Corps, and of course, I think we all know what Gen. Dan Caine is up to these days—can’t thank you guys enough for your service and how impressive you all are still out there getting after it at our age! That’s all I have for now, so until next time everyone stay safe, have a great summer and go Keydets! Daren
1991
Chuck Story Chris Edmonston
BRs, Happy spring 2026! It’s been a cold, wet, and windy spring here in Annapolis. But jam-packed! I’ve seen both my mother and my mother-in-law come close to dying and have had some personal health issues, also. Mortality catches up with us, doesn’t it? But also recently saw my oldest daughter get married—life comes full circle; we better enjoy the ride. Exactly one BR sent in info for these notes: 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes Frank Mulcahy says he’s the new public works director for Pullman, Washington. Pullman is about as east as you can get in Washington and is in really lovely country. Frank related he’s had a busy spring, as the city has had to deal with flooding— even knocking a pedestrian bridge off its mounts. There are a bunch of news videos and articles about the event. It’s an interesting read; you should look it up! Chuck Story noted he is still a lax ref and recently was officiating a game in which BR Kevin Helmick’s two nephews, Gavin and Hunter, were playing. Kevin’s sister,
Maggie, was also there. I noticed that Tom “El Hefe” Heffern posted a picture of himself on Facebook with our reunion bourbon to celebrate our 38th anniversary as a class. Well, we have our 35th Reunion this fall (Nov. 13–14). I am wondering if we wish to do a similar type of “premium” reunion memento. Saw a nice picture of Rob Townend and his daughter, Kay, who both ran a half-marathon in Brooklyn. Also, see that Justin Martin has taken up blade making Class of 1991: Stephanie Edmonston, Maureen Edwards, Chris Edmonas a hobby—how can we get one ston, and Rob Edwards at Emily Edmonston’s wedding. made for the reunion? Finally, I’ll add that there is a new alumni website/app available to us all, myvmialumni.org. I think it works pretty well, and it has helped weed out many of the people who wish to join our Facebook page. (I’m really surprised by all the people who wish to join who have nothing to do with our class.) One last note about our Facebook page—we don’t use it to promote businesses or political opinions; it’s just for us to connect with each other. As always, feel free to drop a line about what’s going on. I love to hear from everyone. If you’re visiting Annapolis, I can show you the good spots!
Class of 1991: Rob Townend and his daughter, Kay.
Class of 1991: Chuck Story with Kevin Helmick’s nephews, Gavin and Hunter, and Kevin’s sister, Maggie.
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Class of 1991: Chris Edmonston and his daughter, Emily, at Emily’s wedding.
Class of 1991: Tom Heffern with a ’91 bourbon.
1992
William Woodward
BRs, Here are the latest updates on our classmates and their families. First off, for those who had not heard via email or the class Facebook page, it is with great sadness I was informed March 16 that our BR Jake Carrico passed away Feb. 22, 2026. Please keep his wife, Stacie, and their daughter, Taylor, in your thoughts and prayers. Tom Timmes sent in a picture of him and Marshall Taylor ’26 (Carney’s son) from the annual scholarship luncheon. Marshall and Austin Stills ’26 (Harold’s son) were our class’ scholarship recipients this past academic year. Austin was not able to make it to the luncheon this year. Next academic year, the scholarship will go to Mark Baush’s nephew, Cadet C.J. Weber ’29.
Class Notes
Class of 1992: Attending the wedding of Will Woodward ’18 in Winchester, Virginia, April 18, 2026, are (from left) Daniel Hamner ’22, Jake Foley ’18, Nathan Dugie ’18, Matthew Hamner ’21, Edilene (bride), Will, Woody Woodward, Steve Goddard ’83, and Mark Wright ’18.
Class of 1992: Marshall Taylor ’26 and Tom Timmes at the annual VMI Foundation Scholarship Banquet April 18, 2026. Thanks to Tom for covering for me, as I was at my son’s (Will ’18) wedding the same day. We got a photo at the wedding with all the VMI alumni in attendance, including Daniel Hamner ’22, Jake Foley ’18, Nathan Dugie ’18, Matthew Hamner ’21, Edilene and Will Woodward ’18, Woody Woodward, Steve Goddard ’83, and Mark Wright ’18. Steve Goddard is Will’s uncle and my brother-in-law (his wife, Cheryl, and my wife, Leslie, are sisters). The Hamner brothers are my dyke’s (Tom Hamner ’89) sons. Mathew Hamner was also my son’s dyke! Anhtuan Nguyen set up an incredible outing for those BRs in the NOVA area in late April that was graciously hosted by Rob Schonberger at his moonlighting job location, Port City Brewing Company in Alexandria, Virginia. They sent a picture with the following BRs: Gary Wright, Keith Frantz, Mike Starling, Rob
Class of 1992: Gathering on the Florida Gulf Coast in April 2026 are (from left) Jon Manley, Ed Davis, Jeff Zeigler, Biff Beale ’91, Matt Ott, Taylor Holt, Tim Jordan, Mark Loving, Billy Waters, Scott Council, Whiting Chisman, and Rob Mizelle.
Class of 1992: Gathering at the Port City Brewing Company in Alexandria, Virginia, April 25, 2026, are (from left) Gary Wright, Keith Frantz, Mike Starling, Rob Schonberger, Bill Bersing ’89, Dan Franzen, Laird Knights, Dean Case, John Driscoll, Anhtuan Nguyen, Mike Arness, Theo Androus, Tim Rodriguez, and Brian Jones ’94. Schonberger, Bill Bersing ’89, Dan Franzen, Laird Knights, Dean Case, John Driscoll, Anhtuan Nguyen, Mike Arness, Theo Androus, Tim Rodriguez, and Adam Jones ’94. Jeff Zeigler sent me in a few pictures of him and some BRs at a fun Florida Gulf Coast weekend in April where they enjoyed reconnecting, golf, shooting, and remembering Jerry Allen. In the golf picture were Manley, Ed Davis, Jeff Zeigler, Biff Beale ’91, Matt Ott, Taylor Holt, Tim Jordan, Mark Loving, Billy Waters, Scott Council, Whiting Chisman, and Rob Mizelle. Finally, I got a quick status check from Dan Mazzei, responding to his birthday video message. 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 or a change in email address, let the Alumni Agencies and I know so that we can make sure you get all VMI correspondence. In the Bonds, Woody
1993
Lincoln Swineford
Brother Rats! I sincerely hope you’re all doing well and that the new year has started off great for you. I’m submitting this on New Market Day, so please take a second to think of the brother rats from all 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes Very happy for this recognition for your dad, classes who had their lives cut short in service to Tom. It’s an incredible honor, and we’re all proud or because of their service to our country. to have known him and you. Congratulations to This is a great update, lots of cool happenings, your family! kinda long, so buckle up. In other VMI-related news, I got a chance to go First off, some great news for the family of one to the “I” for the Foundation Scholarship Banquet of our BRs: As you probably know, Col. John in April. This is where they bring together scholRipley, father of our Brother Rat Tom Ripley and arship providers and recipients. As class agent, I his siblings, was awarded the Navy Cross for his got invited because of our Class of ’93 Memorial actions at the Bridge of Dong Ha April 2, 1972. I Scholarship, where I got to have lunch with Cadet know I don’t have to tell many of you the story, Hollie Sauceda ’28. I wrote about her last year, as but during the Vietnamese Easter Offensive, Col. she received our scholarship while playing on the Ripley was given the order to defend the south water polo team. It was great to meet her in person, end of the bridge, and for 3 hours, he planted exbut she let me know that this is her last semester plosives on the bridge by climbing and swingon the water polo team, as she is focusing on coming beneath it, ultimately blowing the bridge and missioning into the Air Force and has decided that preventing the North Vietnamese advance. The is where her talent and passion lie. She is looking Navy Cross is second only to the Congressioforward to serving our country, and I know that we nal Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in Class of 1993: Tom Michalow and John all wish her well. combat. Mounts ’74 at the Pittsburgh Half MaraI also got a chance to have lunch with the reTom Ripley offered the following, which thon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. cipient of the David B. Jordan III ’93 Memorial speaks for itself: “My father was a Marine in evScholarship, Matthew Atienza ’26. ery sense of the word. Our famiI believe I previously mentioned I ly learned earlier this week (in became aware of this scholarship March) that the Senate recomestablished by Dave’s family after mended that our father’s Navy he passed away in August 1993. Cross be upgraded to the MedThe scholarship has been awardal of Honor for his actions at the ed to an English major every year Dong Ha Bridge during the Easter it’s been available, as Dave was the Offensive in 1972. Last week, the top English graduate in our class. I president called to make it official. reached out to Dave’s father, and The award presentation should be he supplied me with information in June. For many who know the on who to contact, and I was able story, this moment feels like the to meet Matthew. By the time you circle closing. If he were here toread this in hard copy, he will have day, my father would point to the graduated. Matthew came to VMI Vietnamese Marines and U.S. out of Northern California, where Marine advisers who fought behe was inspired to go to VMI by side him. There were many heroes Class of 1993: Lincoln Swineford with Cadets Hollie Sauceda ’28 and Matthew Atienza ’26. Barrett Morris ’96, who was a that day, and he would see this as high school teacher of his. Mata recognition that belongs to all thew received our scholarship for of them. I have never attended a 2 years and is very grateful for the promotion or event with my father help. He intends on joining the Mathat he did not recognize the sinrines after graduation with the ingular driving force in his life, my tent of moving into aviation. Again, Mom. ‘Next to every great man I know we wish him luck. is a woman that requires it.’ They I passed on this information to say that the toughest job in the Mr. Jordan, and he replied with the military is being a military spouse, following: “Thanks for the update. and she was one of the best. When As you can imagine, Dave’s moththe bridge was destroyed, she was er continues to be heartbroken by at home with a 2-year-old (me), a his tragic death, as our entire fami3-year-old, and a 6-year-old, and ly is, even 30 years later. I hope the she was on her second 13-month good that comes from the scholdeployment. Our family is proud arship will lift her spirits even for of the honor and receives it with Class of 1993: Mike Gorman, Don Spears, Kevin Morris, Darin Ramsey, and a day. Again, I thank you for the humility and respect. Rick Barnes at Don’s retirement party. news.” Mission first, Marines always!”
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Class Notes It was really great to be able to meet these two cadets. Both are squared away and motivated, and I really feel like our scholarships have done some good for these two cadets and the Institute as a whole. I took them on a little tour through Moody, which the Alumni Association was doing that day, and showed them the upper balcony. Sadly, they won’t get to experience the upper balcony as alumni, as demo of Moody begins soon. I am looking forward to learning about the two new recipients we will have next year. And in still other VMI-related news, one of our own was elected to the VMI Alumni Association Board of Directors! BR Matt Eads will be running the Southeast Region for the next 4 years! Nice job and good luck, BR! Dave Hoy, who is probably our most well-traveled BR, sent an update: “Back stateside after a great first quarter traveling Japan, Malaysia, and Thailand. Loved all three countries and am already planning a trip back as soon as possible. Especially want to spend some time in Japan when there isn’t snow on the ground! Hope you and the family are well and congratulations on your daughter’s wedding. I’ll likely be stateside until late summer or early fall, so let me know if you’re planning any ‘socials’ in the RVA area [CA note: We are planning ‘socials,’ more to come], and I’ll try to make it up. Have been in touch with Morris, Schroeder, Lloyd, and Perin, as well as Rob Ritchie ’92 (graduated with us), and all are doing well. Actually talking with Mark about doing a short section of the Camino de Santiago in early October. Let me know if you’re interested, and we’ll loop you in on the planning as we get closer. Cheers.” Cheers, indeed, BR. Glad to hear from you, and thanks for the update. This year will not work for me for the Camino de Santiago, but that is on my bucket list of things to do after hearing about some of our brother rats doing it a couple of years ago. It sounds like a great time and a great trip. I would recommend you all Google it to see what it’s all about. Matt Bowers checked in from Atlanta to let me know our BR Phil Watson was able to have a pacemaker installed, and he is finally able to start working as he’s able. Matt and Brian Jordan have been helping Phil where and when they’re able. Speaking of Brian Jordan, he’s still working away on the campaign trail as an independent for Maryland’s 5th District. I’m rooting for you, Brian. We need more common sense and honor in D.C. these days. And good news for criminals and ne’er-do-wells everywhere: Don Spears has finally hung ’em up and retired from federal law enforcement. This is relatively new information to me, but there was a
retirement party that Mike Gorman, Kevin Morris, Darin Ramsey, and Rick Barnes were able to attend. Congratulations on a great career and good luck in the next chapter, BR. We know you’ll do great. Mike Wysong checked in with this update: “All good on the Wysong front ... one kid left at home (Tommie) who will play men’s soccer next spring at UVA for any BRs who are into soccer, and/or who would like to join us for a game. ... I’m also delivering the commencement address at Mt. Saint Mary’s graduation this weekend, which will include a funny story about Colonel Baur ’75 telling me ‘I should never to go into healthcare’ because I couldn’t pass organic chemistry (and joking with me that I would never be a doctor). The irony is I get an honorary doctorate as part of the ceremony, so it only took 33 years to be a doctor! Hope you and the family are well. Stay in touch ... Rah Virginia Mil!” Congratulations, Soon-To-Be Dr. Wysong! That’s great! Hans Pauley checked in from North Carolina: “I moved to Asheville, North Carolina, in 2024 and am really loving being in the mountains again and pleased to be away from the Florida heat. My son, Jackson (W&M ’21), now works for my competition at Deloitte and is living in Arlington, and my daughter, Kennedy (Cal Poly ’27), recently turned 21. As such, all three of us can now go to a winery and fully participate. It doesn’t hurt that Kennedy is in walking distance of some great Edna Valley (San Luis Obispo) pinots!” Glad you’re loving life in Asheville, Hans. I found it a little bittersweet when our girls got old enough to drink with us because we lost our DD. Fortunately, still got one for another couple of years before she ages out of that responsibility. Thanks for checking in. Dr. (and soon to be published author) John Moore checked in from Down Under: “I’m still in Papua New Guinea, but as we are empty nesters, my wife, Kirsten, has also moved up to Port Moresby. A very nice change. She previously was with the Australian Army, having first been in PNG in 1991, then served in Bougainville with the Peace Monitoring Group following the onset of civil conflict there. Our youngest starts university at Pepperdine this fall, with our oldest finishing up university in Australia next year. Otherwise, I have a book coming out in June. My Ph.D. research on Iraq got picked up by Routledge and will be published as part of the University of Durham’s Middle East series. The title is ‘Petroleum and Politics in Iraq—The Struggle for the State.’” Curtis Barker updated his email address (which you can all do directly with me if you need to) and offered an update: “Our son, John Barker ’26, works in the D.C. area and is getting married Aug.
15, 2026 (of all dates). My wife, Sharon, of soon to be 30 years in October, will retire this year after 30 years in education and about 20 years as an elementary principal. Our daughter, Sarah, will be entering high school this fall. This coming year will be my 30th with Waynesboro Public Schools, where I manage student data and do a host of other things (with retirement sometime after our 100th Reunion, most likely). Otherwise, we are living the simple life about 15 minutes north of the ‘I’ and about 5 minutes from Steve Allison.” Congratulations on the upcoming nuptials, that’s a good date to get married on—momentous things happen Aug. 15. Glad you and the family are doing well. Tom Michalow checked in at the last minute with pictures from his recent running of the Pittsburgh Half Marathon. I’ve run that race, and the hills on it are BS, so the fact he’s running it at our gentlemen-of-leisure age is impressive. Almost as impressive as his daughter running it with him but not quite as impressive as John Mounts ’74, who Tom met and got a picture of running the race. Way to represent, BR! I have been quite the social butterfly recently. Had drinks with Jim Roman one evening after work a couple of months back. Jim and his wife relocated to Richmond as he accepted a position with a company here. Their kids are all doing well, with one at VMI and the others adulting in Charleston and Charlotte. Saw Stephen and Regina Allison when I went up for the Foundation Scholarship Banquet. They’re doing well living in Lex Vegas and taking care of rats, as appropriate. Also at the banquet, I ran into Scott Coleman, who was in town for the baseball game, but in my typical fashion, I got distracted, wandered off, and wasn’t able to catch up with him. That’s my bad. Also ran into John Weeda’s wife, Leeanne, at the banquet and had the chance to catch up with John on the phone a couple of weeks ago. Leeanne still works with the administration at the VMI Alumni Association. John, you may remember, worked for VMI also but retired from there and took a contract gig in New York. All are doing well. Got a chance to sit down with Don Spears and have a couple of beers on his outstanding patio after we traipsed around his back yard looking at mine shafts. I also had lunch with Vic Kane in April. Vic and Susan are doing well in Richmond, and next year, they’ll have two at Virginia Tech. It’s no VMI, but Tech will still do in a pinch. Also got a text from Dan Hill when he made a trip to Key West to see Cameron Briody, who is still holding it down in sunny KW. Got a chance to get on the phone with Charles 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes
Class of 1993: Tom Michalow and his daughter at the Pittsburgh Half Marathon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Sternberg. Charles and his wife, Tricia, and two kids are doing well in the New York area. And I talked with Erik Nilsson. The Nilssons are all doing well, and Erik will actually be up at VMI to see the commissioning of son Jake’s rat, who graduates this year. I still message pretty regularly with Phil Grant and Hemi Zamalis, and somehow, one of our rats, Nick Latsios ’96, has joined the chat group. If you know Nick, you know he’s an entertaining young man. It is always great for me to catch up with everyone, and I really appreciate the opportunity to get together, even if it’s over a text group. The Swinefords have had a lot of moving parts so far in 2026. Our oldest got married the first weekend in May to a great guy. We’re thrilled for them and are looking forward to them continuing their lives together. I know I’m not the first and I won’t be the last to say that walking my daughter down the aisle was the longest and shortest walk of my life. God bless them both. Our middle daughter has been adulting as a nurse for almost a year now and still thoroughly enjoys it, and the youngest just finished her first year at VCU. She’ll spend the next two semesters taking pre-reqs to apply for nursing school to hopefully follow in her sister’s footsteps. And April was diagnosed with breast cancer in January. She has an excellent prognosis after her lumpectomy. She’s got about 6 months of chemo, but as of today, she’s holding up well, just a lot of nausea. It will probably be the November update before I can say that we’re done with chemo and the targeted radiation. Honestly, cancer is scary, but everyone reading these knows people who have had much worse news and much
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harder treatment than what April’s having to do, so we’re grateful she has it relatively easy compared to some. I don’t bring it up for attention or sympathy. She’s got the most researched and treated type of cancer there is, so we’ve got a solid, proven plan with great doctors and nurses, and we’re going to work that plan. We’re in good shape; we’re doing all our treatments here in Richmond about 15 minutes from our home, so we don’t have to travel, and we’ve got a great support system between family and friends that already have meals planned out for us on chemo days. I bring it up because brother rats have sent April get-well and thinking-of-you cards. Because brother rat after brother rat and even the wives of brother rats have called or texted or emailed me asking how April is feeling and asking how I’m doing. Because a group of BRs and their families went in together and bought April a chemo blanket called a Lola, which she loves. I bring it up because there has been an unbelievable display of support from our family, friends, and our brother rats, and I’ll never be able to thank you all enough for it. And that’s the note that I’ll end on: Thank you for your support. I appreciate it, and so does April. To know there are people out there praying for her and supporting her means more than I can say. Thanks to everyone who sent an update or reached out. If you’ve never sent an update or it’s been a long time, I’d love to hear from you, so please feel free to call, text, or email. I hope you’re all well. RVM. ’93, ’93, ’93.
1994
Clay Campbell Clay Mountcastle
Greetings, BRs! We matriculated 36 years ago. You read that correctly—36 years. Thirty-six years before our matriculation was August 1954, when a young Elvis Presley released his first record. That means we are officially old. (I prefer the term seasoned. We are well-seasoned.) Just remember, they say
that gray hair makes you look distinguished. Or so I’ve heard. I’ve also heard that Rusty Stein wore a black suit and boots for a full week when Chuck Norris passed away earlier this year. But tall tales are common in Texas. Some things never change, and Dustin Devore has not lost his ability to rally his brother rats. DD recently orchestrated a dinner for some Richmond-area BRs in honor of Jim Bratina being in town. The only problem was that Fat Jimmy was a no-show. That meant that Dustin, Tim Bailey, Fritz Ligday, Chris Doss, Clay Mountcastle (hello), Dave Bruce, Chris Gros, Roger Jones, and Clay Campbell had to eat and drink without Jimmy and instead talk about him behind his back. A great time was had—even as Gros tarnished a nearby kids’ birthday party while broadcasting his rather lewd, yet accurate, VMI stories. Pig was most disappointed with Jimmy’s failure to appear and wanted to go all VMI rugby on him, but cooler heads prevailed (and eventually Dustin chilled out, too). The evening wrapped up with a toast to J.R. Teal, so ultimately, it was time very well spent amongst BRs. Frank Boehling was looking for his lost shaker of salt down in Key West back in February. He saw his old Hotel Company cadre corporal, Cameron Briody ’93, tending bar, which he’s been doing for a long time now. It’s not surprising to see Hotel Company guys end up in bars. Frank is looking forward to watching his son, Leo Boehling ’28, return for his third year with VMI football. Go Big Red! Aric “Cool Breeze” Southworth, our class’ secret agent in Charleston, checked in. Aric said, “Not a lot to report here but did want to say that one of the best VFWs in the world is here in Charleston at the Isle of Palms, right near my home. My family and I are lifetime members, and the commander of the ‘post on the coast’ is Bryan Brooks ’91. Bryan liked to yell like a 3rd when we were rats, but he’s mellowed in retirement! Seriously, Bryan and the rest of the officers do an outstanding job and keep the beer and liquor costs down right next to the best entertainment venue on the beach. If anyone is in Charleston, you must check out the VFW on IOP ... and I’ve got the first round! Recently, a group of us went to watch VMI boxing here at The Citadel. VMI’s team looked great; The Citadel’s, not so much. I don’t know for sure how many The Citadel boxers were actually cadets. ... You know The Citadel teams (football, basketball, baseball, club sports, etc.) are made up of night/day/online students mixed in with cadets, right? At any rate, next time any of our BRs visit Charleston, we’ve got plenty of space, and we’ll leave the light on! Babs and I
Class Notes School is starting to wind down, are empty nesters and have an upand my oldest son, Diego, is stairs we rarely see anymore.” Aric, graduating May 30 and has alwe will take you up on that. Thanks ready committed to go to Tufor representing VMI down there in lane University (where my wife enemy territory. teaches and gets a substantial Benjamin Miller is still in Richtuition discount!), and so will mond, living in Church Hill, and be heading out in early August. still with the Virginia Department Still have a few years left with of Aviation. my other boys in ninth and 10th Chris Doss took a minute to send grade. My mom and my wife’s a report that he and his wife, Holmom, both around 83, are doly, were visiting Greece. Athens, the ing well, although their health Acropolis, Mykonos, and SantoriClass of 1994: Gathering for a mini reunion in Richmond, Virginia, are Tim is quite up and down and preni—a fabulous itinerary! I trust that Bailey, Fritz Ligday, Chris Doss, Clay Mountcastle, Dustin Devore, Dave Bruce, carious. Indeed, I am planning Chris didn’t hit the ouzo too hard; Chris Gros, Roger Jones, and Clay Campbell. Not pictured is Jim Bratina. to visit my mom in Fayetteville, he’s taking it easier these days. I North Carolina, in early July, and look forward to getting his after-acgoing to swing by Florida to see tion report of the trip. my brother in Orlando and do A Washington Nationals game some fishing. Life has been busy, brought Charles Downs and Jeff of course, but I feel very grateful Guild together, and while there, to be able to do the work I do, they bumped into Dale Hybl’s son, and I am trying to make the most Ethan Hybl ’23, who is on staff at of each day and to also take betVMI. Charles then proceeded to ter care of my own health. I startheckle the visiting team by called painting again—which I starting them lollygaggers. Jeff ened doing at VMI probably junior joyed the overpriced concessions. year with Andy Blair—and that He and Kathy will surely enjoy the has been lots of fun, especialsame high prices at football games ly since my wife has also been in Charlottesville this fall as their doing some watercolors at the daughter, Maggie, begins college at same time and so we have been UVA, where Charles’ son, Arthur, is able to hang out more and talk now a junior and Gerald Escobar’s about art and life. I haven’t heard son, Andrew, is a senior. There may anything from Robin Riviere or be some other ’94 kids who are curany of my roommates but will rent Wahoos, but the names escape write them and see what they’ve me. Thankfully, we all buckled on been up to. I have seen (Generour boots and spurs instead. al) Nimit Suwannarat a lot on It seems like the bizarrely imFacebook at one posh event or pressive accomplishments of Ro another, and he seems to be sharBrowning, our man in Manhattan, Class of 1994: Curt Crowder, Todd Witt, Jason Cincilla, and John Campbell ing more of himself and his prinever cease. Congratulations are in gather at the Campbell farm in Buena Vista, Virginia, to celebrate the graduation of John’s son, Jacob, from VMI in May 2026. vate life, which has been nice to order, as Ro brought home the firstsee.” Another super update, Eric! place prize in the Weehawken Elks’ Good luck with your fishing trip, and make sure Lodge Karaoke Cabaret back in May. The judges school and is an amateur race car driver working were simply spellbound by the sheer intensity of his way up the SCCA ranks. I have been work- you show us some of your new artwork. Kevin Vermillion wanted to make sure we got Ro’s rendition of a Devo classic. It would appear ing at Collins Aerospace for the past 5 years on that those long-ago hours of practicing in the mir- the a ‘day without space’ issue, meaning, what the good news about BR George Karavetsos: “George has spent his entire career in law. He ror in barracks finally paid off. Whip it, Ro. Whip do we do when the enemy shoots down our satelhas served as both a state and federal prosecutor, lites? There is a solution by the way. ... Couldn’t it good! It was a very cool surprise to open my emails be happier, doing better than I deserve. Probably as a chief counsel, a director of a federal agency, and see an update from Matt Fedowitz. Fed tells need Pig to bring me down to reality a bit, poke and—in the last several years—representing inus, “Divorced from practice wife in 2000, met the some holes in the facade, throw some stones, dividuals and corporations and some high-profile things are going too well.” Fed, it’s great to hear cases. His notoriety has resulted in George taking right one in 2006, and haven’t looked back. We the big step of leaving the big firm and establishlive in the people’s republic of Maryland currently. things are going so well. We definitely need to ing his own, Karavetsos Law.” Kev, thanks for We have two boys: One step-son graduated Cor- see you at a class get-together soon. Eric Ensley reported, “Things here are fine. letting us know about George’s success, and stay nell and lives in New York, and the other in high 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes
Class of 1994: Charles Downs, Ethan Hybl ’23, and Jeff Guild enjoying a night at the ballpark while taking in a Washington Nationals game.
Class of 1994: Dale Hybl and Song Yoo at Legacy Day in April 2026.
Class of 1994: Chris and Holly Doss vacationing in Greece.
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safe down there in Texas. No chasing after tumbleweed. As one BR’s legacy journey ends, another begins. John Campbell’s son, Jacob Campbell ’26, graduated in May, and Rob Brumley’s son, Hayes, just joined the Rat Line. Congratulations to you both. It is inspiring to know that our class continues to be represented in barracks by the next generation. I wonder when the first ’94 grandkid will matriculate and which BR will claim that distinction. Place your bets. Whomever it ends up being, I’ll buy them a drink at The Palms. Ed Hosken wrote in, “I am still a government contractor in the D.C. area and dream of retiring on a daily basis. I just finished my first year of coaching the GMU BJJ club. My wife and I are celebrating our 30th anniversary this August. My two girls are at UTK undergrad and grad school. The boy is at GMU, and all three finish next year. Yay!” Ed, congratulations on the anniversary and getting close to no more college bills! Ed did pass on some serious news about Kirk Deason, however, who had a cardiac episode requiring follow-up bypass surgery. We’re all pulling for Kirk to get back to 100%! I received a special request from one of our BRs who has also been navigating some extremely tough challenges within his family. He reached out to me and let me know that a GoFundMe is being established to help the family with the escalating medical and financial costs to battle ALS. If anyone wants to contribute or help, please reach out to me for details. As for me, everything is just grand, as my dad would say. Directing the Virginia War Memorial is meaningful, fun, and allows me to bump into many a VMI grad. I’ve been there for 10 years now, which is hard to believe. Brittney and I were able to close out our All Five Great Lakes in a Year challenge by visiting Lake Erie and Lake Ontario in April. The highlight was walking across the Niagara Falls bridge into Canada. Two of her boys came along and seemed to enjoy themselves, especially when we stayed in a hotel in Buffalo that used to be an insane asylum. (Just trying to prep them for VMI). We are excited to head to Lexington for a game or two in the fall, including when our dykes have their 35th Reunion in November. Hopefully, we will see a bunch of BRs there. The best class in barracks keeps getting better (and more seasoned)! Let’s keep these bonds strong and keep in touch! Red, White, and Yellow Floats on High, RVM, Clay
1995
Michael Fellows
Brother Rats, Summer is upon us. As I sit at my desk typing these notes on New Market Day, it’s hard not to stop and let the memories come flooding back— Memorial Hall, the parade, and that strange and powerful feeling of standing in a line of cadets connected to every line that came before it. In true VMI form, the class notes are due today, and I’m about at the point of asking the bugler to “hold it” while I make last-second edits. I keep promising myself that next quarter, I’ll start composing notes and compiling photos throughout the entire 90 days—and yet here I am, knocking it out at the last minute, and there is something so familiar and so very proper about doing them right here at the end. Some habits never die. Looking ahead, the Keydets open the season Sept. 5 at Lane Stadium against Virginia Tech— the first meeting between VMI and VPI on the gridiron in 42 years. It is not Victory Stadium in Roanoke Thanksgiving Day, but it’s something close enough to a rebirth of that old Military Classic of the South to make any of us who grew up hearing those stories pay attention. If any of you are planning to be in Blacksburg for that game, please get the word out and let’s see if we can pull a group of ’95 together. And The Citadel game is at home in Lexington Nov. 14—the actual Military Classic of the South—and I am going to do my best to get the family up there for that one. Mark your calendars. Like many of you, I’ve been watching the recent legislative debate in Richmond surrounding VMI’s governance with great interest. The 2026 General Assembly session produced two bills— HB 1374, which reshapes the composition of the VMI Board of Visitors going forward, and HB 1377, which establishes an advisory task force to examine the Institute and report back by November. While the most concerning early provisions were amended out along the way, both measures will shape VMI in the years ahead, and the Alumni Agencies has done an excellent job keeping us informed throughout. It will be particularly interesting to hear Gov. Spanberger deliver the commencement address to the Class of 2026 Sunday, May 17—her first remarks to the Corps as the Commonwealth’s commander in chief. Whatever your views, this is a moment to
Class Notes
Class of 1995: Mia Wilborne, daughter of Damian Wilborne, at her graduation from Howard University in May 2026.
Class of 1995: Laura and Lloyd Taliaferro at the commissioning of their son, U.S. Navy Ensign Lloyd Taliaferro, in spring 2026.
Class of 1995: Ben Bird on Mount Rainier, Washington, in April 2026.
stay engaged with our school. Ben Bird sent in a great shot from Mount Rainier, where he snowshoed up from paradise toward Camp Muir back in April. In Ben’s own words: “A little more than halfway to Camp Muir, my right knee reminded me that (one) I ran 18 miles Wednesday and (two) I run my first marathon in 36 days. So, I didn’t push it and just enjoyed the views and headed back down. No regrets. And, I even made it home in time to mow the yard.” Best of luck on that marathon, Ben—looking forward to hearing how it went. Jeff Godby and Joe Doyle managed to get together in Columbia, South Carolina, while Joe was in town for a very proud family occasion. As Jeff put it: “Great catching up for a bit with Joe Doyle while he was in town for his very smart wife’s graduation from the University of South Carolina! Congrats, Doctor Stephanie Doyle.” Congratulations to Stephanie from the entire class—well done. Damian Wilborne sent in a wonderful photo of his daughter, Mia, on her graduation day from Howard University’s College of Dentistry. The story behind it is even better. In Damian’s words: “My daughter graduated from a 4-year program from Howard University’s School of Dentistry. I commissioned her 4 years ago, 4 days before I retired from the Air Force. Now she will promote to captain and report to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base this summer for a 1-year residency.” Father commissioning daughter 4 days before hanging up his own uniform—and now she’s about to pin on captain. Outstanding all the way around. Congratulations to Mia and the entire Wilborne family. Lee Grimes and his wife, Laura, had a very proud moment this spring as their daughter, Miller, signed her National Letter of Intent to play volleyball at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Congratulations to Miller and to the entire Grimes family—what an extraordinary accomplishment to compete athletically at a school like MIT. As I look around at what the children of our brother rats are achieving, I’m struck by how often they are exceeding the bar we set for ourselves. Whether it’s elite academics, top-tier athletics, military service, or any number of other pursuits, our kids are doing remarkable things. We should all be proud of them—and proud of the BRs and spouses who raised them. Mike Young flew his plane down from Virginia Beach to Jacksonville to join me in playing in the member-guest at my golf club this spring. Having been Mike’s roommate during our time at the “I,” I have to tell you I wasn’t the least bit surprised to hear him casually mention that he didn’t bother checking the weather until he was airborne. Mind
you, this is the same person who told me—with a straight face—that if you slept 12 hours a day at VMI, you were only really there for 2 years. Or 18 months, if you happened to be Kurt Polk. Years later, he told me he was heading to flight school in Pensacola, and I genuinely thought he was kidding. The man got bounced around the skies above South Carolina in a thunderstorm on his way down but arrived safe and sound, naturally. While we were playing one of our matches, another guest noticed Mike’s VMI driver cover and asked about his connection to the Institute—turned out to be Billy Hupp ’77 down in Jacksonville playing with a Mink from W&L. Small world, indeed. The fitting end to the weekend came when Mike; my son, Aubrey; and I were pushing his airplane across the tarmac to get fuel. So, the next time you find yourself wondering just how thick the blanket of freedom was when Mike was sitting in the cockpit of
Class of 1995: The Grimes family at Miller Grimes’ National Letter of Intent signing in spring 2026.
Class of 1995: Jeff Godby and Joe Doyle in Columbia, South Carolina, in May 2026.
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Class Notes his F/A-18, there’s your answer. Lloyd Taliaferro sent in this proud moment of him and his wife, Laura, with their son, Lawson —now Ensign Taliaferro, U.S. Navy. The best part of the story is how it unfolded. Lawson completely surprised Lloyd and Laura just before his graduation from Wofford by announcing he was headed to Officer Candidate School to commission into the Navy. He is now working his way through the surface warfare officer course in Newport, Rhode Island, and will then report to the USS Fort Lauderdale. As a native Floridian myself, I’ll just say it is a unique experience to see a U.S. Navy warship named for Fort Lauderdale heading off to project American power abroad. I’m not entirely sure what message that name sends to our adversaries, but I have full confidence in Ensign Taliaferro and his shipmates to live up to whatever it is. Bravo Zulu, Lawson—the entire class is proud of you. I’ll close with a little trip down memory lane. While rummaging through a box of VMI items I had stashed at my parents’ house right after graduation, I came across the program from the 45th Khedive-Shrine Oyster Bowl Game in Norfolk Oct. 26, 1991—VMI versus The Citadel during our rat year. I audibly laughed when I pulled it out, because the first thing that came to mind wasn’t the game itself. It was Tony Teriitehau sprinting full speed at what he was certain was a giant beach ball at Virginia Beach—only to discover, the hard way, that it was actually a cement ball painted to look like one. Tony, if you’re reading this, please tell me you still remember that. The whole weekend felt like a prison break for the Rat Mass, and it’s still one of those memories that holds up nearly 35 years later. If any of you have stories or photos from our 4 years on post, send them along, and I’ll work them into future notes. In the Spirit, Michael Fellows
What made it extra special was seeing many BRs who have not come to a reunion in a while. Thank you to all who could attend, and for those who could not, please consider attending our 35th. I think I speak for everyone when I say it is worth it to reconnect with the class. Special thanks to Scott Shropshire and Jon Sherrod for getting me and Nick up the sentinel box. It was something us 50-plus-year-olds had to do, and you both made it happen. Scott even randomly had a band-aid with him, as I cut my finger climbing up. Of course he did; he is always prepared to help a brother rat out. And that is the true story of our class: Being there for one another. We again held a memorial service at our reunion, which was officiated by our brother rat, Mark Simonds. Mark was again so eloquent in his words about our fallen brother rats and the bond that keeps us together. Jamal Thomas honored our beloved Brother Rat Ken Mears, who was the most recent of us to have passed away. We continue to keep the memory of our fallen brother rats with us in this reunion tradition. We were honored to have Col. Keith Gibson ’77 and Brig. Gen. Dallas Clark ’99 as guest speakers at our Saturday dinner. Thank you, Dallas, for sharing your wisdom and memories of our class when you were a rat. It has been inspiring to see how you have positively shaped our beloved Institute over so many dedicated years and through so much change. To think it all started in Room 111. On behalf of the Class of 1996, we would like
to thank our honored guest and speaker, Col. Keith Gibson, for his kind and inspiring words during our 30th Reunion. We have always suspected, and as Col. Gibson confirmed, that the Class of ’96 holds a special place in the historical record: The best class in barracks. What a “rambunctious” group of Keydets we were, and even more so now as alumni. One thing has always defined us: We have never accepted “no” as the final answer. Thank you, Col. Gibson, for all you have done for the Class of 1996. As a thanks from our class, we donated to the VMI Museum the tattered remains of the Ring Figure ’96 banner that hung on the smokestack for more than 20 years. We were also honored to have two of the Jamie Edge Spirit of VMI Scholarship winners in attendance throughout our reunion. Cadets Robert Frost ’28 and Parker Hayes ’27 were honored at the dinner and are fine examples of cadets who personify the spirit of VMI that Jamie embodied. We thank you for your continued support of this important scholarship. Also during the dinner, I read a note that our Brother Rat Dave Hall had given me, which was an incredibly inspiring message on the bond of love and support that this class has for one another exemplified so profoundly during Dave’s wife Vicky’s battle with cancer. I wanted to share this note with the class. “As this journey for my family comes to an end, and as my heart and soul are just getting ready to be torn in half, I am able to look back and realize that, even though nothing in my life will ever be the same, I will still be able to have the strength
1996
Jon Dano Nick Latsios
Brother Rats, Wow! What a 30th Reunion! Such a great turnout of so many brother rats and their families.
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Class of 1996: Brother rats surround Dave Hall at the memorial service for his wife, Vicky.
VMI Class of 1996 30th Reunion
Class Notes
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Class Notes
Class of 1996: Members of the class attend a memorial service honoring lost BRs at the 30th Reunion in April 2026.
Class of 1996: Jon Sherrod at the 30th Reunion in April 2026.
to handle what comes my and my family’s way. I do not have the space in this letter to thank each and every one of you individually, but each one of you knows who you are; collectively, I call you my brother rats. (My children call you uncles.) From fund mes, to texts, to visits, to messages on Facebook, to interviews and meetings, to house visits or hosts, and, of course, to Jeep tops and barn dance and homes away from home, each one of you has helped raise my family; each one of you has been there for the highs and the lows. Cancer is unbiased. It chooses whoever it wants, and it destroys families along the way. This 2-and-a-half-year journey for our family has not destroyed us, and it sure as $^*# has not destroyed me. True friends are there during the lows; I am blessed. I have an entire class of true friends. I will never be able to thank each of you enough; I will never be able to repay each one of you, but I will always be there for you, and, most importantly, I will have the strength to keep moving forward, to get up each day and find something positive,
Class of 1996: Brother rats attend the memorial service for Dave Hall’s wife, Vicky.
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Class of 1996: Jon Dano; Nick Latsios; Col. Keith Gibson ’77, VMI Museum System executive director; Cadet Robert Frost ’28; and Cadet Parker Haynes ’27 during the 30th Reunion in April 2026. and most importantly, to appreciate the blessings of life. Our class is special; it is the definition of the VMI experience. Thank you, I love each and everyone of you.” Heartbreakingly, the day after our reunion ended, Vicky Hall passed away. In the spirit of Dave’s message, the brother rats of the Class of 1996 rallied their support for Dave and his family again immediately following Vicky’s passing. It culminated in so many of our brother rats attending a lovely service for Vicky. The picture in these notes of so many of us giving Dave a huge brother rat hug is a tremendous visual representation of who we are as a class. I know there are others out there in the class that may be suffering, that may be going through difficult times. Please know, you are not alone. Your brother rats of the mighty Class of 1996 are there for you. Please do not hesitate to reach out, and we will be there. God bless, Vicky Hall. A highlight worth noting outside of the reunion was Spike Solovey receiving the Lieutenant General (Retired) Arthur J. Gregg Sustainment Leadership Award, which is a prestigious U.S. Army honor established in 2015 to recognize individuals making significant contributions to Army logistics and sustainment operations. Congratulations to Spike on this honor. As stated at the reunion, it has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your class agent these past 5 years. The experience has been so impactful in my life. To be a part of the mission to bring us together, to engage and support each other, and to continue to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood within the best class to ever come out of VMI. And to my class agent partner, Nick Latsios, you have elevated the engagement level of this class to such a high level over these past many years. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner. Thank you so much for all you have done and continue to do. With Immense Gratitude, Jon and Nick
Class Notes
1997
David M. Hudock
Gentlemen of the Old Corps! In traditional Class of ’97 fashion, I waited until the last minute to write these notes—on their required submittal date—which happens to be New Market Day, so it seems wholly appropriate that I waited for this day to get started. I trust this finds all of you well and somewhere toasting the fact that you are, at this moment, not donning a pair of ducks in preparation to march in a parade between graduation and release from the Institute for the summer. Congratulations! As this is a last-minute endeavor, it will be a quick one, as class news has only trickled in over the past 3 months. I assume many of you are tied up with graduations, spring breaks, seeking cheap gasoline, and life in general, which is wonderful! Enjoy and update me and the rest of the class with pictures when you have a chance; we’d love to see all that is new with each brother rat. In the meantime, I can bring you up to speed on Brother Rat Jim Rodgers, who recently found his way back to CONUS from the land Down Under, where he spent the past several years lending his services to the Australian Ministry of Defense. He; his wife, Betsy; and daughter, Penelope, have opted to relocate to Jacksonville, Florida, where Jim is seeking work in support of the AUKUS program. Suffice to say that Jim and his family are excited to be back in the United States, and he will likely be traveling to D.C. frequently, so keep an eye out and ask him to buy you an oil can of Foster’s. Welcome back, Jim! Look forward to seeing you soon or at our (gulp) 30th next April! Speaking of time flying by without regard for how it makes the rest of us feel, Jon Riggs checked in with some great news about the world’s newest Marine officer. His son, Josh, was bestowed with the golden bars of a second lieutenant on his shoulders this month in a commissioning ceremony at The Citadel. And as if that weren’t enough for one month, the next day, Josh graduated from The Citadel. See accompanying photos of proud dad festooned—shockingly—in The Citadel colors and son. Josh doesn’t know it yet, but his life is about to flashback to “#knoblife” when he musters at Quantico in August to start The Basic School. Nothing beats a paid 6-month vacation at the crossroads of the Marine Corps, I and several of you reading this
Class of 1997: Jon Riggs with his son, Josh, at Josh’s graduation from The Citadel in May 2026. can assure him. Congratulations, Jon, on your son’s graduation and commissioning! Best of luck to Josh at TBS; we look forward to hearing of his future successes. Semper! And with that, I will wrap up this issue of the “fastest class notes in recent history” and wish each of you a spectacular spring and a super-fine summer! Please keep in touch, stay healthy, take care of one another, and plan to hoist a few oat sodas with me at our (gulp) 30th next year.
1998
Joey Bates
I am submitting these notes on New Market Day, and I hope that this note finds you well on or around matriculation in August! Believe it or not, the Class of 1996 just had their 30th Reunion, which means ours is only 2 short years away. Expect some details in the months to come as we begin planning for your return to Lexington, which I hope many of you will consider. Tommy Smith checked in recently and shared that the ground is beginning to thaw in “the mitten,” but he has learned to heed the warning, “Abandon all hope, ye who enter here,” that is written in small print just below the “Welcome
Class of 1997: Jon Riggs’ son, Josh, on the day of his commissioning at The Citadel. To Michigan” sign. It has been almost 15 years since he moved to Hastings, Michigan, from the Republic of Texas, and he still cannot come to terms with how very long the winter weather seems to hang on. They occasionally see flurries as late as May or even June. Fortunately, he is based in DFW with American and, therefore, is able to escape the clutches of old man winter on an almost weekly basis, which keeps him from having to stare at a SAD lamp for months on end! He was hustling through DFW airport (late for another flight, as usual) when he heard someone calling his name from the wilderness of Gate A30 and was surprised and pleased to see the beaming smile of Mark Redman! Mark is a captain now with United Airlines, and he was attempting to catch a ride to work on one of the American flights to Denver. They were both pressed for time but managed to catch up briefly. (So strange how almost 30 years have passed since graduation, but it felt like it was yesterday since the last time they connected.) He also checked in later with an update on someone roaming through DFW in a VMI T-shirt, which he is always on alert for. On April 17, following a short flight from DFW to San Antonio, Texas, he was standing by the door, saying farewell to the deplaning passengers. As the rapidly “departing souls” dwindled to only a half dozen or so, lo and behold, he spotted a VMI T-shirt working its way to the front of the aisle! As the body bearing the familiar image came into 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes focus, he was pleasantly surprised to recognize the face as that of none other than Ray Jaklitsch ’95. They talked for a bit on the jet bridge and caught up more exiting the terminal. Ray was home for a few days leave from his duties at the Pentagon. He seemed to be doing well and was genuinely shocked to hear someone call him by name as he was leaving. Of course, he didn’t know Tommy from Adam, but he could never forget the old commander of First Battalion! Tommy—thanks for checking in; my bride is from TVC and gladly lives here in Lexington, and we have managed to move my in-laws here permanently this past year
after they spent the last 10 or so snowbirding away from the mitten. Stay in touch and be well! I received a mini ’98 text from BRs at the World of Beer in Richmond. Pictured are Jimmy Stanley, Paul Sak, Ernesto Sampson, Christian Craft, Darrius Jackson, Al Lester, Dennis Claytor, and Mark Williams. Looking good, guys, and I hope you are doing well! Pat Baker and I were unable to connect for turkey season, but I believe that his son was successful on his own, which is awesome! Pat, stay in touch and maybe we can come visit next spring. Be well!
Class of 1998: Tommy Smith and Mark Redman.
Class of 1998: Tommy Smith and Ray Jaklitsch ’95.
Scott Houser checked in at CQRB and shared that, at the end of the month, he will be retiring after a 20-year career with the FBI as a special agent. He is currently in the Miami Division and plans on easing into a life of leisure and doing a lot of traveling around the world. He intends on making the 30th Reunion, as he should now have some free time on his hands. Scott, thanks for checking in and congratulations on a well-deserved retirement; thank you for your commitment to our country! Hope to see you soon! This concludes my formal submissions for this time. I wish it were more. I was recently contacted by a gentleman planning Justin Lewis’ retirement celebration (thank you for your service, Justin), and he was looking for some pictures of Justin as Moe, etc., which I was able to procure from my scrapbooks, old Bombs, and a little bit of help from Robert Bopp and Brady Gallagher. In the next month, I look forward to joining many others in celebrating Dave Nash’s retirement and will provide more updates during the next Review. Adding an update on our Class of 1998 Endowment Scholarship: It was awarded to Cadet Savannah Dixon ’27 from Chesapeake, Virginia, a psychology major. Take pride, gentlemen, as our efforts are paying off and supporting the future of VMI and cementing our leadership legacy! The quickest way to reach me is via text or at joeybates@hotmail.com, and my commitment to you is a response, along with working hard tirelessly to make sure that we all enjoy the trips to post in the years ahead. I hope you are well, and when you read these notes in May 2026, you take a few minutes to shoot me an email, Facebook message, or text message so that I have more to share. And if you are coming to town this fall/winter/spring for any activities, then please give me a shout in advance. Rah Virginia Mil! ’98, ’98, ’98.
1999
Jeff Golden
Class of 1998: Jimmy Stanley, Paul Sakellariou, Ernesto Sampson, Christian Craft, Darrius Jackson-Walker, Al Lester, Dennis Claytor, and Mark Williams at the World of Beer in Richmond, Virginia.
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Greetings, Brother Rats and Friends of the Class of 1999, I’ve got to start things off again by recognizing Dallas Clark, who has been appointed to the role of VMI Alumni Agencies CEO. Dallas continues to represent the Class of 1999 incredibly well at the Institute. As VMI enters this next chapter, alumni support will be as critical as ever, and we
Class Notes
Class of 1999: Matthew Hart, Joel Christenson, and Mike Nelson.
Class of 1999: Patrick Henderson and Ben Kincaid.
Class of 1999: Jeff Sprague.
Class of 1999: Matt Kuhr, Van Carson, Michael Condon, Brian Wolfe, Carl Trask, and Steve Lucas with their wives. all know they have the best man for the job with Dallas in charge. Let’s all do our best to support Dallas as he assumes this ever-important role. I heard from John Bolt, who checked in and is doing well enjoying his new role as the superintendent of the Cambridge American Cemetery in the U.K. Jeff Sprague was appointed as a U.S. immigration judge by former AG Bondi in February 2026, and he is now hearing cases at the Baltimore Immigration Court. Jeff is presiding over removal proceedings for aliens and providing due process under the Immigration and Nationality Act. This past August, he reached his 20th year in his federal legal career, and this is truly a capstone. Jeff’s wife and son, Ollie, as well as his in-laws, came to see his investiture at Main Justice last March. He sent in a selfie taken just before his first day on the bench. So proud of you and the work you’re doing; keep representing the “I” well. After 27 years of no status reports, Mason Ayers touched base for his very first contribution to class notes. I can’t be too hard on him; I didn’t contribute for 25 years until I took this over! Mason’s son, James, has committed to play lacrosse at VMI next year and will be a member of the Class of 2027+3. James will be the second generation of lacrosse players at VMI. He’ll be surrounded by familiar faces, as six high school classmates will be joining him for Rat Line activities. I received a great update from the biggest brains in the Class of ’99. Michael Condon sent in a great picture of an impromptu mini reunion of many of the electrical engineering majors from our class who got together with their wives in Virginia Beach. Alongside Michael were Carl Trask, Van Carson, Matt Kuhr, Brian Wolfe, and Steve Lucas. Michael said they had a great time reminiscing, joking around, and hearing what everyone and their families have been up to recently. While most
Class of 1999: Fraser Orgain and his son. of them have been living in Virginia for some time, Carl recently relocated to the Tidewater area after being promoted to chief of staff of the Submarine Command Atlantic Fleet, an amazing accomplishment, Carl! There were plenty of stories, laughs, and great food and drinks enjoyed by all. Matthew Hart reached out and asked that people take a moment to check out the new VMI app: myVMIalumni. They have put in good work to keep us all better updated, and Matthew has been doing his best to keep our class’ page 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes active. Matthew also mentioned he ran into Joel Christenson and Mike Nelson at Taps in Lexington. Mike had presented to Joel’s classes at VMI. Matthew was busy on post during the spring with two reunions, two alumni and admissions events, plus Legacy Day, all in the same month. During one reunion, he was able to enjoy dinner with a guy celebrating his 75th Reunion. Lots of Old Corps stories from that, I’m sure. Matthew also took the opportunity to track down his dyke, Darren Braylo ’96, whom he hadn’t seen since graduation. On the personal side, his daughter has accepted a job at Sight & Sound Theatre in Pennsylvania, and they are moving her up there toward the end of May. His son has finished his sophomore year at Rockbridge County High School, where he ran cross-country in the fall and played varsity lacrosse this spring. He also made pretty decent grades through it all. If any BRs are coming back to Rockbridge County or VMI, the Harts have a guest room or two available. Please reach out if needed. Patrick Henderson went to a Bitcoin conference in Las Vegas, only to be pleasantly surprised that he went all the way to Nevada to see Ben Kincaid speak. Ben said he had the opportunity to speak at the conference discussing the connection between rare earth and critical mineral supply chains and the hardware that underpins Bitcoin mining. He had no idea Patrick would be in the audience and was pleasantly surprised to catch up. Completely unrelated, Patrick also reported that Roanoke’s Texas Tavern was recognized by Southern Living magazine and some NYC hamburger expert. I realize this has nothing to do with VMI, the Class of ’99, or even Patrick himself, but he seemed pretty excited about it, so I’m tossing him and Texas Tavern a bone here with some recognition. “A Bowl With” IYKYK. Last but not least, Fraser Orgain was at Legacy Day, and someone grabbed a picture of what appears to be him already hazing his son. Get your chin in, young Orgain! In the Bonds, Jeff Golden
2000
Chris Abbott
Editor’s Note: We did not receive class notes for the Class of 2000.
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2001
Tony Gelormine Rich Groen
Brother Rats, As we move closer to our 25th Reunion, one theme keeps emerging from updates from across the class: Reconnecting. Whether through careers, family milestones, unexpected reunions, or plans to return to Lexington, it feels like many of us are entering a season of reflection on just how much life has changed since we left post in 2001, while also realizing how much of those years together remains with us. That momentum is already carrying into reunion planning. Taylor Mawyer, Charlie Bunting, Ethan Weber, and the reunion team recently held a coordination call and have begun working through the details for November 2026. Ethan is heading to Lexington to scout hotel options, while Taylor coordinates directly with VMI Alumni Agencies reunion staff to finalize planning. The immediate goal is to lock in hotel arrangements and get a save-the-date announcement out to the class as details come together. Early discussion around reunion favors includes a high-quality black vest featuring the VMI spider and ’01, which already sounds like something half the class will still be wearing years after the reunion. For many BRs, this season has also marked major transitions. Kenneth “Shake” Carmichael recently retired from the U.S. Air Force and wasted little time launching into his next chapter. He now serves as the lead associate for cloud services at Booz Allen Hamilton, leading a $735 million enterprise application migration and modernization effort supporting the Department of the Air Force. Kenneth and his wife have settled in Stafford, Virginia, where retired life apparently still includes building companies. Together, they are launching OurFamilyDocs.com, a platform focused on simplifying access to important personal and family documentation services, with a projected launch next summer. Others are seeing the next generation begin their own journeys. Stephen Brown proudly introduced his first grandchild, Eloise Rhodes
Class of 2001: Billy Prible, Luke Pernotto, Steve Skakandy, and Justin Walskey at the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas.
Class of 2001: Guy Workman and Victor Zottig in Leavenworth, Kansas.
Class of 2001: Stephen Brown with his first grandchild, Eloise Rhodes Brown.
Class Notes His oldest son, Cameron, graduatBrown, who is doing great alonged from UNC Charlotte with a meside his daughter, Hailey, and sonchanical engineering degree with in-law, Cameron. Stephen added a motorsports emphasis and will one final detail only a BR would soon begin work with Hendrick appreciate: Because Cameron’s Motorsports in their aerodynamlast name is also Brown, Hailey ics department. His middle son renever had to change hers after getcently completed his second year ting married. “No relation, I promstudying chemical engineering at ise,” he clarified! NC State, while his youngest just Brian Wright also checked in wrapped up junior year in high with family updates, reminding school. all of us how quickly time moves. Perhaps the best reflection on this His oldest daughter just completed Class of 2001: Mike Gantert with his family at the graduation of his son, season came from Drew Carbone, her first year at the University of Cameron, from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. who wrote that life has a habit of Kentucky as an equestrian science delivering triumphs and tragedies major, while his youngest recently finished kindergarten. Brian joked that this now with Guy Workman and his family over dinner in equal measures, until, somehow, everything marks 26 consecutive years of the Wright family before the two spent time together at a local range. eventually finds its place. Drew added that seeing classmates again matters because good friends are Victor also met up with his rat, Jim Bean ’04, and being in the Loudoun County school system. Prohis wife, and later caught up with John Leake ’02 hard to find, and he hopes everyone makes the refessionally, he continues his work as an entrepreunion. Ben Norris also checked in to say hello and neur, running a preventive healthcare company during a flight home. Guy, meanwhile, shared that focused on longterm health transformation, while he is now with Winchester at the Lake City Army to let me know he hopes to attend. As these updates continue coming in, one thing his wife recently completed her second graduate Ammunition Plant and extended an open invitabecomes increasingly obvious: Time and distance degree and will begin her residency as a therapist tion to anyone interested in marching to New Market with him to reach out to him directly. He and may have changed careers, cities, and family routhis June. Across the Pacific, Brian Lakin checked in from Kirsten are also in the process of purchasing a 30- tines, but they have done very little to weaken the friendships forged at VMI. Twenty-five years later, Honolulu, where life continues to look remarkably acre farm in Mountain City, Tennessee. Ryan Colvin shared one of the more unexpected many of us are finding our way back into each othHawaiian. He remains with the same construction er’s lives again, which may ultimately be the best management firm he joined in 2007, though the career turns from the class. After 22 years in the company has grown into one of the largest con- insurance business in South Bend, Indiana, Ryan part of this reunion season. I look forward to seeing many of you back on tractors in Hawaii, and Brian himself was recently and his wife decided to “retire” and purchased promoted to director. Beaches, surfing, and beau- Halcyon Days Cider Company in Natural Bridge, post this fall. VR, tiful weather remain constant, although golf has Virginia. Ryan said they could not be happier to Rich Groen now officially entered the rotation, as well. His son be back in Virginia and described Lexington as is now 14 years old, and Brian hopes to bring him an incredibly welcoming business community. to Lexington for the reunion to give him one fi- In true reunion spirit, he also floated the possibilnal chance to decide whether following his father’s ity of hosting a casual BR gathering at the cidery path to VMI makes sense. Brian admitted the odds ahead of the official reunion events so classmates Salmaan Khawaja can spread out, reconnect, and ease back into old remain “unlikely lol.” friendships before the larger festivities begin. John Niederhaus provided perhaps the most The idea of reconnecting seems to be happening relatable professional summary of the group, explaining that while he still works as a physicist in naturally already. Steve Skakandy shared that a small fire team of brother rats recently descendMaryland, much of his day now revolves around Brother Rats, ed on San Antonio for the 190th anniversary of deleting junk texts, declining cookies, and proving I hope this edition of the Review meets you and to websites that he is not a robot. His family has the Battle of the Alamo. The group included Bilbecome deeply invested in skiing, which recent- ly “The Other Guy” Prible, Luke “Mothership” yours well! Things are going well here in RichPernotto, Stephen “Skak” Skakandy, and Jus- mond, Virginia, as I write these very brief notes ly took them to West Virginia, where dark skies gave John the opportunity to photograph the Orion tin “Whiskey” Walskey. According to all reports, this time around. I greatly appreciate everyone Nebula using a portable “smart telescope” his wife the stories improved steadily as the evening pro- who contributed so many notes the last two goarounds, but unfortunately, I have no submissions gave him for Christmas. He added that he hoped gressed. Kevin Fromm reported that, aside from contin- this time. We have a big reunion coming up soon, Col. Dupuy would approve. John admitted he has not always done the best job keeping in touch over uously sending me random memes and videos, he and we will be sending out information regarding the years but is looking forward to seeing everyone is finishing his MBA at UCLA and will graduate that soon. Again, I hope all is well with you and yours, in June. He is currently exploring business develat the reunion. The reconnection theme continued through sev- opment opportunities in the Washington, D.C., and Rah Virginia Mil! In the Spirit, eral unexpected meetups. Victor Zottig recently area while navigating interviews and applications. Salmaan traveled through Leavenworth and reconnected Mike Gantert also shared exciting family news:
2002
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2003
William “Bill” Talley V
Brother Rats, It’s mid-May as I type up this set of notes, and tomorrow the Class of ’26 will officially join the alumni ranks. However, yesterday, my daughter, Savannah, earned the status of JMU alumni! As you can imagine, Amie-Anne and I are tremendously proud of her. Savannah received her degree in social work and will start graduate school down in Chapel Hill at UNC. As we took in the various festivities and commencement ceremonies, I couldn’t help but recall how that felt for us, just a mere 23 years ago. It’s hard to believe it was that long ago, and we’re now that old! I know we have some BRs who will be celebrating high school graduations in the next few days/ weeks, and I hope to be able to include some photos of those in our next set of notes which will be due in mid-August. Since my last submission, I’ve not received any updates directly; however, I know there’s been activity occurring. I caught up with Lara and Stuart Chambers at the Legislative Reception held in Richmond in February. It was a well-attended
Class of 2003: Bill Talley and his daughter, Savannah, after her graduation from James Madison University May 14, 2026.
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function from an alumni standpoint, but light when it came to legislators. Legacy Day was held at the Institute April 11, 2026, and Derek Overstreet, Nick Foster, and Erik Figueroa were there showing their kids how to properly climb the rope and scale the climbing wall down in the indoor track facility. Kyle and Juli Haire were up at the Institute the following weekend attending the Foundation Scholarship Banquet and representing our class for
the memorial scholarship we have. I don’t think the recipient was able to be present; however, we do appreciate Kyle and Juli making the trip. Their oldest son, Taylor, will be graduating high school and is headed to University of Tennessee. I caught word via a text thread that Mike Haag and Dave Loeffler caught up in Phoenix when Dave was traveling through toward the end of April. Randall Harvey and Rob Osypowicz caught
Class of 2003: Derek Overstreet, Nick Foster, and Erik Figueroa visit post during Legacy Day in April 2026.
Class of 2003: Chris Kim with his family at his promotion ceremony to colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps May 13, 2026.
Class of 2003: Dave Loeffler and Mike Haag in Phoenix, Arizona, in April 2026.
Class of 2003: Randall Harvey and Rob Osypowicz in Washington, D.C., in May 2026.
Class Notes up in Washington, D.C., in early May. Keeping in the D.C. area, Jason Lambert has seemed to maintain a social media presence of hanging with the power brokers, as he’s been sighted in photos featuring Gen. Dan Caine ’90 and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. There’s big news from the Traina family: Blake, Jennifer, and the boys (David and Daniel) are headed overseas to ItaClass of 2004: Andrew Hardin and his wife, Sarah, with Creed on the Sumly! Blake has gotten a promotion mer of ’99 cruise in April 2026. that will take them there for the next 2 years. Blake said they’re looking forward to this new adventure and that he Cavalry Regiment in Vilseck, Germany, June 5, 2026. If you’ll be in Bavaria, check in with would be back for our 25th Reunion. In other exciting news, Chris Kim was pinned Tim. He’s offered to host, so I propose a rea colonel (USMC) in mid-May. Congratulations union at Vilseck sometime in 2027! Andrew Hardin and his wife, Sarah, took the to Chris and his family! Keeping with exciting news, Jason Annis Summer of ’99 cruise in April 2026 and got a picreached out to share with me that his oldest ture with Creed! They were heading to St. Lucia with John Ginder and J.B. Rosson in early daughter, Kiersten, is headed to JMU in August! July. We’re looking forward to scuba pictures for Jason and Theresa are excited for her and this the next update. new chapter for their family. Well, BRs, that’s all I’ve got for this set of notes. Please send me updates from over the summer with what’s going on in your lives. It sure makes it a lot easier to type these up! As always, Tom Hardinge Rah Virginia Mil, ’03, ’03, ’03!
month. I reached out to a few BRs in April to mark the occasion, and it was great to reconnect and reflect on it. Everyone is already looking ahead to the big 25th Reunion in just 4 short years—it will be here before we know it. In the meantime, it’s always nice to keep those connections going and stay in touch as the years continue to move quickly. That said, I just have a few updates and pictures to pass along this quarter, so let’s jump in. In February, a small contingent of BRs gathered for a weekend of revelry in Charleston, South Carolina, to attend the annual Lowcountry
2005
2004
Scott E. Campbell
Sean McElroy retired from the U.S. Army Reserve Dec. 15, 2025. He writes, “It was awesome. I currently work at Leidos here in Huntsville, Alabama. I also just found out my nephew, Christopher Butler, will be a rat next year, which is pretty exciting.” It’s a small world; Christopher’s mom and Clark Laster are both teachers at Middlesex High School. Sean continued, “I had no clue until my cousin asked me if I knew Clark.” Other news: Sean was running a 24hour race May 16–17 in Huntsville. Good luck with the race! Tim Price took command of the 2nd
Greetings, Brother Rats! It’s hard to know what’s more surprising: That it’s already mid-August again, or that we are now well over a year removed from our 20th Reunion last spring. It honestly feels like it was just last
Class of 2005: Josh Simulcik receiving his Ph.D. in sustainable education from Prescott College in spring 2026.
Oyster Festival. While ultimately the festival was canceled due to an uncharacteristic snow and ice storm, Shore Stokes, Andrew Troy, Tim Johnson, Chris Johnson, Jason Downs, and Greg Van Pelt all still managed to have a fantastic time together. Josh Simulcik reached out: “I want to announce the completion of my Ph.D. in sustainability education from Prescott College earlier this month. My dissertation was on recognizing the discursive tensions inherent in defense technoscience and how that community might use speculative fiction to generate more truly innovative Class of 2005: Shore Stokes, Andrew Troy, Tim Johnson, Chris scenarios and strategies.” Congrats, Johnson, Jason Downs, and Greg Van Pelt in Charleston, South Josh! Carolina. I also received a brief note from Ted 2026-Issue 3
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2006
Will Collier
Class of 2005: Ted Henderson serving on a mission trip to Nicaragua.
Class of 2005: Adam Rouse and Sam Mielnik. Henderson: “All is well here in Richmond— thriving pediatric practice, active with our church ministries, and my F3 workout community. Also wanted to share that I was able to serve on a mission trip recently to Nicaragua—my medical team supported a local pastor’s mission to a large community in the north.” Thanks for sharing, Ted! Finally, after 9 years at GHT in Arlington as a principal senior mechanical engineer, Jim White recently transitioned into a new position as a technical program manager on the sustaining engineering team at Google. There, he will be focusing on sustainable mechanical engineering initiatives as the tech giant continues to expand its data infrastructure across the country. That’s all to report for now, BRs. Please keep those updates rolling in, and if I haven’t heard from you in a while (or ever), don’t be a stranger and drop a line! Until next time, stay safe and be well. Rah Virginia Mil! Tom Hardinge
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Brother Rats of the Superior Class of 2006, Chris Gathmann sent over the following report: “I celebrated my retirement from the AF this month up in Gig Harbor, Washington, with ’06 BRs Chris Foltz, Dave Rahl, and Mike Child. My last assignment was at DCMA Puget Sound doing acceptance test flights on new KC-46 aircraft as they rolled off the Boeing assembly line. I am starting with Delta Air Lines in May, and we plan to stay in the area. Chris Foltz is currently stationed at the Pentagon after finishing squadron command in Alaska last year. He is waiting on O-6 results and drinking beer. Dave Rahl is currently dean of the College of Space Warfare at Peterson AF Base, Colorado, and is sporting the best mustache I’ve ever seen. Both Chris and Dave plan to stay in service for a few more years. Mike Child is currently the director of strategy for Nike HQ in Portland, Oregon. I get to see him a couple times a year for concerts or holidays or when he comes up this way to hike.” Q. Rohlfs reported, “The week prior to the reunion, Dave Kimsey, Nick Dowdle, Brent Timmer, Stu Miner, Ben Chovanec, Tim Fairchild, and I got together to do a Jeep trip throughout the Shenandoah. Dave and I have been consistently doing these trips every 6–12 months for the last 3-and-a-half years and slowly growing the crew each time. I’m currently flying HH-60Ws with Kyle Deem and
Class of 2006: Q. Rohlfs and Kyle Deem are currently in the same U.S. Air Force squadron flying HH-60Ws.
Class of 2006: Jordan Josiah Brown, son of Dr. Katrina D. (Powell) Brown and her husband, Chaplain Caleb J. Brown, was born March 18, 2026.
Class of 2006: Lindsay Gathmann, Katie Quillen, Ashley Pasquale, Colleen Ihnen, and Erin Simpson at the 20th Reunion in April 2026.
VMI Class of 2006 20th Reunion
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Class Notes It was great seeing everyone at our 20th Reunion. Big thank you, Alexandria Ivins, for assisting with the BBQ Saturday evening of the reunion. As always, please keep sending your notes and pictures. Until next time! Your BR, Will
2007
Whitney Matthews
Class of 2006: Chris Gathmann, Mike Child, Chris Foltz, and Dave Rahl celebrate Chris Gathmann’s retirement from the U.S. Air Force in Gig Harbor, Washington, in April 2026. working for Colonel Brian Desautels ’03. Our rescue unit will be doing the VMI at VT flyover this fall, which should include landing at the VMI Parade Ground for cadet incentive flights.” On April 30, 2026, Frank Dolberry will take command of 1st Battalion, 9th Cavalry Regiment (2ABCT/1CD) at Fort Hood on the Division Field. Kyle Schriefer shared, “I was disappointed to miss our 20th Reunion and the chance to reconnect with all our BRs. I had to cancel my plans at the last minute when I was called to deploy in support of Operation Epic Fury. I am currently wrapping up my final few weeks in battalion command. Although I will be transitioning to a new job soon, I expect to remain stationed at Fort Bragg for the next couple of years. I hope everyone is doing well and look forward to catching up next time.”
Brother Rats, I hope that your summer has been going well! As you receive this Alumni Review, it will mark matriculation time at VMI. Twenty-three years ago, Aug. 16, 2003, we signed the Matriculation Book. This means that our 20th Reunion is right around the corner! Our 20th Reunion will be April 23–24, 2027. Be on the lookout for more information about the reunion as we get closer to January 2027. We are excited to see everyone back on post celebrating the best class in barracks! Evan Hanks, Nick Engle, and Tyler Freeman recently proved that distance is no match for old friendships. The trio met up in East Texas for a successful hog hunt and a long-overdue reunion. Evan traveled from Shreveport, Louisiana, where he is currently preparing for his upcoming retirement from the Air Force. Joining him were Tyler, who is serving as a Navy dentist in North Carolina, and Nick, who recently branched out to open his own law practice in Colorado Springs. On April 23, 2026, Jamaal Walton returned to barracks as a cadet for 24 hours. He was fulfilling
Class of 2006: Undertaking a Jeep trip throughout the Shenandoah National Park in April 2026 are (from left) Tim Fairchild, Brent Timmer, Dave Kimsey, Nick Dowdle, Ben Chovanec, Q. Rohlfs, and Stu Miner.
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Class of 2007: Jamaal Walton and Col. Ley Havird ’90, commandant, return to cadet status following Compete to Win, the Keydet Club’s annual crowdfunding campaign.
Class of 2007: Andrew Timpner’s U.S. Navy change of command ceremony Feb. 27, 2026.
Class of 2007: Mira Veis and Tab (Pinter) Davenport.
Class Notes his challenge through the Compete to Win campaign, which is a fundraiser for VMI athletics. He writes, “It was a pleasure to connect with the Corps, march down for BRC and SRC, and walk around the stoop in my bathrobe. The commandant, Col. Lawrence Havird ’90, joined me as my roommate while in the barracks for 24 hours.” Mira Veis and her husband, Drew, traveled to Detroit, Michigan, for a Bruno Mars concert. Tabitha (Pinter) Davenport opened her home as a place to stay for a night. Mira writes, “It was great to catch up; Tab is still working for StockX, traveling the world, and raising her two growing boys with her husband.” Both roomies are doing well and are looking forward to catching up with folks at the next reunion. Andrew Timpner and his family have moved to Fairfax, Virginia. He writes, “On Feb. 25, I turned over command of USS Farragut to Commander Josh Cowart. I’m headed to the Joint Staff, J36, in the Pentagon starting in March 2026. Funny story, our last port visit was to Mobile, Alabama, for Mardi Gras, where Steve Prugh is a local legend! I was lucky to meet his wife and several other family members and friends!” Deuntay Diggs and John Phelps ’09 were
completing the Ride to Hope with law enforcement. This event was held to honor fallen law enforcement officers and survivors left behind. They rode 250 miles on bicycles from Chesapeake, Virginia, to Washington, D.C. I had the opportunity to attend several VMI recruiting events over the spring. In March, I was in Norfolk, Virginia, for an event where Chase Perry and Sean Hingley were also in attendance. Sean’s son will be matriculating with the Rat Mass of ’27+3. In May, I traveled back to VMI for two events. The first event was the VMI Alumni Association Board of Directors meeting, where I was elected to the board as the Mid-Atlantic regional director. The second event was for an alumnae networking event that featured Carole Green. I worked to put this event together for alumnae and current cadets. Carole spoke about her time working for VMI and the integration of women into the Corps. Tennille (Chisolm) Barnabi ’01 and Brig. Gen. Dallas Clark ’99 spoke with Carole. It was great to see so many alumnae come back to post and enjoy this event! I also had a chance to catch up with Jamaal Walton while in Lexington. He and his family are doing well. I hope that everyone has a great autumn season. Looking forward to hearing more updates from the class. In the Bonds, Whitney Matthews
2008
Robert Hill
Class of 2009: Bradley Simpson and Mitch Ress at the Masters in Augusta, Georgia, in April 2026.
Class of 2009: Andrew Rice and his wife, Elianna, with their first child, Ellasandra Paige Rice, born April 7, 2026.
Class of 2007: Deuntay Diggs and John Phelps ’09 on their 250-mile bicycle trip. Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 2008.
2009
Bradley Simpson
Class of 2007: Nick Engle and Tyler Freeman on a boar hunt. Not pictured is Evan Hanks.
Brother Rats: I hope this edition of the Alumni Review finds you and your families well. I got a chance to talk to a good many of our class for this edition. Andrew and Elianna Rice welcomed their first child, Ellasandra Paige Rice, April 7, 2026. In
Class of 2009: Justin Tammelin with Mike Schroeder and his family.
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Class of 2009: Justin Tammelin and Jasper Watkins on post. addition to that blessing, Andrew was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates representing the 98th district. Andrew, I say, speaking for the class, we wish you the best of luck in the House, as well as becoming a new father! Mitch Ress and his wife, Chelsea, met up with me (Bradley Simpson) at a small little golf tournament in Georgia the first full week of April. Mitch and Chelsea got to experience all that is the Masters for the first time. We had a great time walking the course and took in the par 3 tournament. Justin Tammelin got a chance to catch up with Mike Schroeder and his kids recently. Mike’s daughter is in eighth grade, and Regan, his son, is in sixth grade. Justin told me Mike is finishing up radiology school at the Navy medical school/ facility in Newport. Mike’s next duty station is in Guam. Justin also ran into Jasper Watkins; Jasper was up hanging around the old stomping ground and got a tour of the new track facilities. Jasper is living in Baltimore and is into medical device sales. Well, that about does it for this edition. Hope everyone is doing well and hope to hear from you soon.
I” recently. I took the kiddos back for Legacy Day, which was a lot of fun and a big success— for those who don’t know, Legacy Day is a halfday event for kids 5-18 to come up and run around post and do obstacle courses, tug-of-war, drill, and other fun things. My kiddos always love it. I ran into a few familiar faces up there, but none of y’all—hope to see more of our brother rats up there in the following years. Funny story—we got to post early enough Friday night when parade was about to begin. It did not take long for my kids to start complaining about how boring it was and ask when we were leaving. The weekend following Legacy Day, I was back in Lexington for the alumni rugby game, which frankly didn’t have the best alumni turnout. C.J. Knight did make a showing, along with his lovely wife, Dani, and their two kids, Duke (6) and Colt (3). C.J. is flying for Delta and living down in Brantley, Alabama, though they’ve picked up some property and are planning to move to Carrollton, Georgia, in the next few years. C.J. was particularly interested in having noted that at the game, on a kickoff, I was very insistent that the ball be kicked to “the old guy over here,” followed by a very quick “oh $#%!” when they did it, and it almost overshot me. Cody Hennelly sent me a note not long ago about his travels to Italy to see Evan Aguirre and J.T. Piribek and how he caught up with Even Rogers during a trip to D.C. He writes: Even is the U.S. Army chief of inspections for the Southern European Task Force, Africa. He and his wife, Kim, and their two little girls have been in Italy for 5 years and will be looking to come back
to the U.S. in 2027. They have a beautiful little country house and are really enjoying traveling all over Europe. J.T. is a scout platoon non-commissioned officer for the U.S. Army 173rd Airborne Brigade. To say it is the best-suited job for a guy like J.T. is an understatement. He and his wife and two children have been in Italy for a few years. He said he loves the mountains and the fact that every fall he goes down to the olive grove on his property and collects them to bring to the market. Even Rogers is well. Many of us have probably been following his career, but if not, a
Class of 2010: Evan Aguirre, Cody Hennelly, and J.T. Piribek in Italy.
2010 David Messina Chris Dommert
Hey, All! Whew, it’s been a busy time for me lately! I had two opportunities to get back up to the “Mother
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Class of 2010: Scott Delo, Dan Fiasconaro ’12, C.J. Knight, Greg Fiasconaro, Fletcher Thompson, Cody Hennelly, and Chris Czupryna holding Greg’s wife, Liesel, at Greg and Liesel’s wedding Jan. 3, 2026.
Class Notes Put the Kenney burgers down, Matt short snapshot: After VMI, he Deacon. went into the USAF and grad Congratulations to Sam Roberts school. While in the USAF, he on becoming the fastest baseball wrote the book on space “dog coach in VMI program history to fighting.” Seeing the need for reach 100 wins. industry to provide the techThere have been tons of future nology for space superiority, Keydets born this year! Jeremy he left the USAF and started a Lucier and his wife, Maddison, welcompany named True Anomaly. comed new baby, Laz, in November He has led the company to date 2026, while Allen McCown and his and is very successful at it. Even wife, Kate, welcomed their baby, lives in Colorado most of the Gwen, in January 2026. David year but gets out to D.C. reguClass of 2010: Evan Aguirre, Cody Hennelly, and their children in Italy. Martin and his wife, Chrystal, also larly for a brew! had a child, Caleb. Men make men! And finally, Cody is a GS15 with the Department of Energy, working let him know, and he will meet up! Greg Fiasconaro tied the knot recently to Leiswith nuclear weapons. I think we can all agree ... that’s pretty scary someone trusts him with el Jan. 3, 2026. Scott Delo, Fletcher Thompson, those! He and his wife, Jessica, have two boys Chris Czupryna, Cody Hennelly, C.J. Knight, who are feral animals most times (his words!). and Dan Fiasconaro ’12 were all in attendance. Cody remarked that “the wedding was lame,” He offered for anyone traveling around D.C. to while Chris added that he only put back 78 beers in 2 days. I also caught up with Brian Bopp. He is currently stationed at JBSA-Lackland in San Antonio, Texas, where he is working as the Air Force Global Strike Command; however, by time this publishes, he should be working at Ellsworth AFB in Rapid City, South Dakota, where he’ll be taking command of the 28th Communications Class of 2011: Jeremy Lucier and Allen McCown with their children. Squadron. He was excited to get out of Texas and
Class of 2010: Nelson Page and his new dog.
to see what new fun South Dakota would bring. He should have also pinned on lieutenant colonel by the time this publishes—congrats on the promotion and all the hard work! Nelson Page is in the Army Reserve and living up in Cincinnati, where he’s been selling simulation software since 2017. In his free time, he and his wife have been meticulously renovating a 5,000-square-foot house that was built in 1898.
2011
Thomas H. Pace
I had the chance to see Matt Talbott, who’s working as an ER doctor in Galveston with his wife, Maddie, and two boys. He asked me to be the youngest son’s godfather, which is such an amazing honor I’m excited for. See y’all in September; I’m ready to start taking bets on who will end up in the county jail or banned from barracks forever (again). Rah, Tom Pace
2012
Bruce Howard
Class of 2010: Cody Hennelly and Evan Aguirre in Italy.
2011, It’s with some serendipitous timing that I’m writing these notes on New Market Day with the “Field of Lost Shoes” on the TV! When these notes come out, we will be just weeks away from our 15th Reunion, planned for Sept. 12. Fifteen years has flown by, and by the looks of it, most of us have put on well over 15 pounds.
Brother Rats, I hope this edition of the Alumni Review finds you and your families well. Here are some updates from this last quarter. Maxx Hipko accepted a new position this spring as a capital project manager with Medline 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes
Class of 2012: Mike Gwinn with his daughter and youngest son.
Class of 2012: Mike Gwinn with his eldest and youngest son.
Industries, working remotely from San Antonio, Texas. He and his wife were married 3 years ago and now have two sons, Clint (19 months) and Bo (7 months). Maxx and his two boys were all baptized Catholic at their local parish’s Easter vigil April 4, 2026. His wife, Summer, was also confirmed with the Catholic Church, and they received the Eucharist as full members of the church that same day. Their marriage was also convalidated this past spring by the church and is now fully sacramental. Praise be to God. Congratulations on the great news about your family! Maxx is also being reinstated in the U.S. Navy Reserve after not complying with the COVID mandate. A special task force in D.C.
under the assistant secretary of the Navy informed him recently that he will be reinstated and all records will be corrected to accurately reflect the conditions of his resignation. Maxx will be immediately promoted to lieutenant commander and will receive full back pay for 4-plus years of forced separation and be issued a formal apology for any mistreatment. He is assisting the ASN’s office and task force to help other persecuted sailors return to service. If any alum were forced out and needs assistance returning to service, they can contact Maxx at hipkomd@gmail.com. Lastly, Maxx’s family is also planning a move to Arkansas later this year to get away from everyone who decided to move to Texas and crazy prices. Mike Gwinn and his wife, Kathy, recently had their third child April 28. They welcomed to the world a son named Jacob Barrett Gwinn. Congrats, Mike, and happy to hear your family is doing so well.
Class of 2012: Bruce Howard with Andrew Won and his daughter.
Class of 2012: Maxx Hipko with his wife and children.
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Max Yates and his wife, Lauren, are currently living in Korea for those who haven’t heard. More importantly, they recently had their third child named Lewis Yates. Happy to hear the good news, Max! Riley Ewen and his wife, Jessica, welcomed their fifth child into the world in April. Margaret “Maggie” Mary joined the Ewen family, and I believe that makes it sibling No. 5! Also, congratulations to Tyler Brown and his wife, Breanne, as they are pregnant with their first child. Chris Kitchen and Drew Stahling recently had significant events for their children this past spring. Chris’s son and Drew’s daughter both participated in their first communion ceremony in Richmond. Congrats to you and your families! Regarding how small the world truly is, my family took a trip to Disney World this past spring and happened to run into one of our own BRs, Andrew Wong. Andy was there on vacation with his own wife and daughter. I’m not sure we had seen each other since graduation, but funny enough, all it took was both of going on vacation in Florida to run into one another. Kippur Taylor and his family recently moved back to Virginia. They have been staying in Lynchburg close to family as they settle on where they will make their next home. I look forward to no longer having to count time zones when we talk. I do greatly appreciate all 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
Class Notes
2013
Rob & AnnieMarie Incontro Michael Scaplehorn
Well, BRs, Not too many updates for this quarter’s notes as we pass our 13th anniversary of graduating from the Institute. For a lot of us, we are in a time of personal and professional growth, which is always great to hear about. We are always happy to share those milestones with the class. Hopefully, as the years continue to go on, we can get more updates of BRs being able to get together and hang out as our lives become increasingly busy and involved. With that being said, John Rivas is opening his own gym! Which I’m sure comes as no surprise to anyone, but it is great to see him have continued to follow his passion and build that into a professional venture. We wish him the best of luck and will update you with details as they come! Brie (Hogan) Alman graduated from a 2-year
Class of 2013: Brie (Hogan) Alman on her graduation day for her master’s degree from Salem State University.
occupational therapy master’s program at Salem State University in Salem, Massachusetts, earning her Master of Science degree in occupational therapy May 15. It’s worth mentioning that she did this all while balancing an active family life; a clinical internship at Bedford Veterans Affairs Medical Center; working as an occupational therapist in the Woburn School District; attending the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island; and being in the Navy Reserve. She will be leaving the reserve as a lieutenant commander this April. Congratulations; we can’t wait to see what your future holds. That’s really all we have, so we just wish everyone the best, especially since I know it’s PCS season for some of our active duty BRs. So good luck with those moves and new assignments, and I hope (most) of your household goods get to your new home in the same number of pieces they left.
in 2027 to run the world’s most magical marathon. Lol! While at the Legislative Reception, I ran into Meade King ’85, who works at the Alumni Agencies. We got to talk a bit about the 2014 Class Scholarship. This year was our first year to award a scholarship, and it went to Cadet Jared Steinlicht ’28. He is an international studies major from Ventura, California. Very exciting stuff! This couldn’t have been possible without everyone’s kindness and generosity. Please don’t forget to continue to donate to the 2014 Class Memorial Scholarship and the Thomas Bradshaw Memorial Scholarship. The more donations that help grow the scholarship, the
2014
Johnny Partin Samuel Guidry
I want to start these notes with a big thank you to all the BRs and alumni who took the time to write their state delegates, state senators, and the governor’s office to oppose HB1374 and HB1377. The collective VMI spirit and passion ensures that VMI continues its mission to produce honorable men and women of character. I want to give a shoutout to Flora Edelbrock, who joined me one day at the General Assembly and spoke with several delegates’ offices about our positive VMI experiences. Also, I want to thank Matt Reardon for calling in virtually to testify at one of the bill’s subcommittee hearings to speak in support of VMI. And lastly, a special thank you to Jack Dixon for working in the background, too. Your efforts didn’t go unnoticed. It was also great to run into several friends at VMI’s Legislative Reception at the Library of Virginia Feb. 19, 2026. I had the pleasure to meet the legendary Lara (Tyler) Chambers ’03 and her husband, Stuart Chambers ’03. I’m currently working on convincing Lara to bring her family to Disney World during the marathon weekend
Class of 2014: Phil Pryor and his wife with their newborn son.
Class of 2014: Tyler Cross’ newborn son.
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Class Notes More fun news! Phil Pryor and his wife, Niklarger the scholarship we can award. All dona- Matt landed first place in their respective age and tions are tax-deductible and go straight to paying gender divisions. Eric did an extra 12-mile loop, ki, became parents! They welcomed little James and naturally, I took my dear sweet time jamming Kenneth Pryor to the world April 13. Phil is altuition, fees, etc. ready training young James to become a future While in Richmond talking with state legis- to good music all the way. On Saturday, April 25, Jonathan Reardon Keydet. lators, I had the wonderful opportunity to meet While we are talking about babies, Abby (Dawwith Senator Jennifer Carroll Foy ’03. We had claimed his own first place at the General Smalla grand meeting and exchanged lots of great sto- wood Triathlon. After a half-mile swim and 12- son) Waterbury and her husband, Ben Watermile bike, he came cruising in with a 5-min- bury ’13, welcomed a cute little girl into the ries about our time growing up in the Petersburg, ute-58-second mile pace on his final 3-mile run. world. Looks like James Pryor and little Miss Hopewell, and Enon area. Thank you, Senator Waterbury are going to be future BRs; hopefully All I can say is bravo! Carroll Foy, for taking the time to meet with me. Also, back in April, Nick Ballard sent me a hi- F-Troop, too! In all seriousness, congratulations, Now onward to the fun class updates! On Valentine’s, I treated my heart to a nice, larious video of him participating in Richmond’s Abby and Ben, we know y’all are going to be healthy run at the Colonial Williamsburg Half first Ren Faire Festival. He tried some combat ac- great parents! Mary Grace Lemon was promoted to major! Marathon. This was the third year doing it, and tion, but let’s say he gave it the ’ole college try. Congratulations, Mary, on this major milestone it felt good not doing the race with crazy wind and achievement. The Army is very fortunate to blowing. have high-quality officers like you. Keep up the Speaking of running, Caroline (Pryor) Clubb is good work and look forward to that gold oak leaf really crushing her running goals. She was lockturning silver soon! ing in some 5K, 10K, and half marathon PRs Speaking of promotions, Tyler Cross was produring February. Keep up the good work, Carmoted to master sergeant at Fort Pickett. It was oline. Your heart is saying thank you very much! the first time I had the pleasure of promoting an In early March, I saw on Facebook that Andrew NCO, and it got to be one of our BRs. Couldn’t Marcotte presented a check to a local nonprofhave asked for anything better. it, Avalon Center. For the month of February, his Mike Sobey has started a Ph.D. program in psybusiness donated $5 for every state inspection chological medicine at King’s College London, that came through and a set amount from certain where he is researching the association of non-opservices to support the nonprofit’s work on superational occupational stressors and the mental porting victims of domestic violence. Andrew health outcomes of the British Army. He is superthen went on to share that over the past year, his vised by Dr. Neil Greenberg from KCL and Dr. business has been able to donate over $70,000 to Carl Castro from USC. He reports he has yet to see various local nonprofits. Andrew, this is increda werewolf in London, and contrary to what Fergie ibly kind and generous of you and your family. has said, the London Bridge still stands. Best wishThank you for leading the way with philanthroes on this great adventure, Mike! py and selfless service. So, BRs, if you are ever Class of 2014: Joseph Predebon on his famRounding out the month of April, our BR U.S. in his area, please look him up. Not only do you ily’s European vacation. Army Maj. Ben Kier participated in the 2026 help a BR, but you help those going through a Combined Resolved Exercise in tough time in their life. Germany and had the opportunity to Triathlon season kicked off work with many alumni from variSaturday, March 28. And you ous classes. The Combined Resolve can bet your bottom dollar Jonexercise is an annual U.S. Army athan Reardon, Matt Reardon, Europe and Africa exercise series and Johnny “Party” Partin were designed to evaluate brigade readthere in our VMI tri-suits repping iness, interoperability, and combat 2014 proudly. Matt and Jonathan proficiency in a multi-domain batgot third and fourth for their age tlespace. He got to link up with and group, and I got third place for work with U.S. Army Maj. Nick the military division (missed Bracco ’15, Capt. Brendan McKee second placed by 1 minute). Af’21, 2nd Lt. Eleyah Armstrong ’25, terward, we had our annual celand 2nd Lt. Dakota Birdsong. ebratory ice cream at City Point At the beginning of May, the Ice Cream and Burgers in downReardon twins and I took on antown Hopewell! other triathlon out at Lake Anna. Fast forward 3 weeks, and FloBoth Matthew Reardon and Jonra Edelbrock, Eva Edelbrock, Class of 2014: Andrew Marcotte and his company donating nearly $3,000 athan Reardon did exceptionally Eric Triassi, Matt Reardon, to the Avalon Center, an organization that fights domestic and sexual viowell. Matt got second, and Jonaand I met up for the Rumpus lence in James City County, Virginia. than got third in their age group. I in Bumpass Triathlon. Eva and
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Class Notes
Class of 2014: Tom Bower and his wife along the Big Sur in California. was in the solid top-67% lol! For our last BR update, Tom Bower and his wife, Katie, are moving back east this summer after graduating from UC San Diego in June. He will report to the Coast Guard Headquarters in D.C. in July and live in the city. So if anyone is in the NOVA, Maryland, or D.C. area, hit Tom up. He and his wife would love to catch up at a Nats or Commanders game. In closing, just remember 2029 will be our 15th Reunion. Reunion planning will begin in 2027, so if you have some interest in helping make the 15th bigger, better, and more amazing, please let me know. I will add you to the team. We will need volunteers to help with the events, outreach, and special project committees. Remember, the time commitment is what you can do; we are flexible with it. Hope everyone has a great rest of their summer! Cheers! RVM, JP
time, so those made their way into the start this time. Let’s get into it. James Singleton started a job at American Express as a senior software engineer II and was running for city council in Maricopa, Arizona, back at the start of the year. Would love to hear an update, James! Urayoan Garcia was proud to share he lost 70 pounds and would be getting married in Punta Cana in May. Congrats, Garcia! Kyle McCarthy and his wife welcomed their daughter, Isabella McCarthy, Jan. 31. Congrats, Kyle! Tyler Brickles and family moved to Hawaii about 2 years ago now. He recently completed his time as a general’s aide and moved to Special Operations Command Pacific this past Class of 2015: Sam and Tricia Hunter with their children, Brooks and Marshall (newborn).
Class of 2015: Joel Hoisington and his fiancée, Tricia O’Connor.
2015
Henry Meredith Johnny McDonald Class of 2015: Alex Hastings and his fiancée, Sydney Fitch.
Keydets! Alrighty, great set of notes this quarter. We ended up getting a handful after the deadline last
Class of 2015: Johnny McDonald and Wesley Jacobs.
April. Cheers, Tyler! Joel Hoisington got engaged to his now-fiancée, Tricia O’Connor. Congrats, y’all! I enjoyed meeting Tricia at the reunion this past fall. Alex Hastings got engaged to Sydney Fitch. Congrats to you two, as well! 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes Quinn Ellis and family had their third baby in March, Molly Linda Ellis. Cheers, y’all; too bad this one won’t have a British accent! Sam Hunter and his wife, Tricia, and their son, Brooks, welcomed baby Marshall this past January and have successfully navigated the infamous two-under-2 phase so far. The family looks forward to Brooks and Marshall joining future Legacy Days on post and meeting as many future Keydets as possible! Brad Anuszkiewicz and family welcomed their third boy, Jacob Bradley Anuszkiewicz, born April 7, 2026. Congrats to y’all, Brad! Taylor Monfort-Eaton and family welcomed baby girl Annalise Joan Eaton, born April 17, 2026. Taylor was excited to share that everyone is doing well and are just so in love! And lastly, I was excited to receive a text from ol’ Johnny McDonald and Wesley Jacobs; the two were at a remote airfield at an undisclosed location in East Africa. Hope you boys are well. Thanks, friends! As always, reach out if you have any updates. Best, Henry
this September. For all who are arriving early, we will have a welcome party Thursday. Friday, there will be golf and dinner, and Saturday will have a full schedule around the game and parade. Hope everyone can make it!
Murphy Kerner
Hope everyone had a great start to the summer; thank you to everyone who sent in notes. Nic Ortiz and his wife, Sami, celebrated the birth of their fourth child, Norah Ortiz, March 3, weighing in at 8 pounds, 8 ounces, and 22 inches. In other news, Connor Norris was promoted to the rank of major in the U.S. Space Force this Friday. Holden Shepard finished up 6 years of active duty in the USCG in 2020 and has since been back in the reserve, drilling out of Portsmouth. He is currently working in the regional emergency management in Charlottesville. This April, he was engaged to his fiancée, Ilana. Congrats, Holden! Look forward to seeing everyone at the reunion
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Michael P. Griffin Zack Johnson
2016
Hunter Morgan
2017
Class of 2016: Holden Shepard and his fiancée, Ilana.
Class of 2016: Nic and Sami Ortiz’ newborn daughter, Norah.
These notes cover the period from Feb. 16– April 1, 2026. Brother rats! I think there may be a problem ... it is currently March 13 (as I write this paragraph, anyway). But you, being the detail-oriented people you obviously are, realize these notes are not due until May 15! Such a change in the preemptive nature of your class agent (or more accurately, the lack thereof) surely leads you to suspect something is wrong! We may be in the end times, or perhaps I just got an extra dose of motivation this quarter and finally got ahead of the timeline. In any case, we are back for the special gathering that happens but once a quarter! Welcome! Thank you for tuning in and for resigning yourself to spend 10 minutes of your valuable time reading details that no other group in the world would ever take this seriously. We have a lot of ground to cover this time, and I have you to thank for that! Now that I’ve been back in the good ol’ U.S.A. for about 6 months, I’ve decided to harass you all for updates (as usual) but also start webbing my way out through the established contacts to find those folks who did a little extra to hide themselves. You didn’t disappoint! Many classmates were recovered from the depths of the void, the distant misty seas, the blazing sands of the faroff desert, the infinite shadows of the abyss ... OK, maybe that’s hyperbole, but we did find some long-lost souls and recount their recent adventures here due to your answering the call. So, thank you! Your aid in the scavenger hunt parts one and two was incredible! So, prepare now for part three coming soon! With that, let’s get into it! Last time, we ended on the incredibly detailed Gazzillo Christmas card, prompting me to make Andrew and Meghan Gazzillo my chosen successors to continue this publication should I eventually croak in the (hopefully) distant future. With my child-like diet, limited knowledge of health science, and general phobia of gymnasiums and exercise equipment, that is something we should always be ready for! After all, Cody Bottoms and his father always used to tease that
Class Notes year of prep time, some may make it and some I believed Vitamin C was for chocolate. I’m not may not, but rest assured, Jess has some solid sure why they joked about what I’m 99% sure is marketing and finance experience that I think true of chocolate, but whatever, they thought it is going to really help shape aspects of this rewas funny! I think we will be OK, though; with union and a good chunk of the next one! Thanks modern tech like AI, I could probably just dump for the input and for taking time to catch up! my brain into a computer and do this forever if Ashley McManus was the next one I connectneed be. Anyway, after the holiday season ended, ed with. She is out in New Mexico and currentI heard from Joe Baumann out in New Mexico. ly digging out from the work piles generated by He has become quite the family man, trading in the long government shutdowns of this last year. routine TDYs for extracurricular logistical supLike anyone who has a lot of work to manage, port for his two daughters. Cheerleading seems she’s debating if she should double down and go to be one of the main focuses, as I received vidback to school for systems engineering. Maybe eos confirming, but fear not, Joe is not the one more importantly, she’s working out when exdoing the cheerleading, as I had initially wonClass of 2017: Emily (Dawson) Surbey’s son, actly to move back to Virginia and get out of the dered! We are currently setting up a visit for Cole. desert. Best of luck with the decisions! It was some time in late July, provided nothing derails great catching up. The very same day, I reached my current timeline. Hopefully, I can catch up out to Kyle Welch, who I heard rumors had with some of the other ’17 desert-dwellers while moved since we last spoke. Turns out, he had! I’m out there, too! Speaking of, I got a surprise He is out in California now for the Naval Postcall from Malcolm Thomas back in February. graduate School and is currently about halfway He recently sold his place in Lynchburg, Virthrough the program. He should be graduating ginia, as it is challenging to manage property in and getting his master’s degree in December beVirginia when you live all the way over in Arifore heading off to the next duty station. Sounds zona. Still, his family is on the East Coast, so he like he and the family want to come back East if does come back a fair amount. Malcolm tried they can. I hope you all get the duty station you to confuse me by moving around the block in want! Keep me posted, BR! Josh Littlefield and his neighborhood, resulting in a few cards beI spoke briefly, as I had been trying to confirm ing returned to me, but we rectified the issue. some information for our roster about his wife, Other than that, he went to the Grand Canyon Allison (Partin) Littlefield. Thanks for the help, back in April with a few folks and is looking Josh! Hope you and the family are all doing well to start up school again in the fall. Good luck Class of 2017: Emily (Dawson) Surbey’s oldover in Tennessee. After that, I got a message with it, BR! Shortly thereafter, I decided to est son, Jacob. from Luke Johnson. He was reaching out to call Mack Shehee on a random Wednesday in provide his updated address since I March and see what he was up had a card returned to me for him. to. He is no longer in Colorado, Thanks for the help, my friend! It it turns out, having moved back was at this point I got a surprise to the East Coast, which I was message from Mr. Steve Amato glad to hear was a smooth tran’83 inquiring about my next assition into a pretty calm Army signment with the Air Force. He intelligence job. He, like many had graciously helped me with a of you, is looking forward to the few contacts while I was out in Qa10th Reunion in 2027 (I protar, but I had completely neglected vide the rather obvious number to tell him I am currently working for additional clarity for all my on separating from active duty by fellow Scott Shippers). Lookthe end of this year. He was kind ing forward to seeing you and enough to provide some guidance Deelan when I get back to Virfor the whole separation process. ginia, Mack! Hopefully, we can Thank you for all the help, sir! The all get together with Matt Johnnext day, I was sitting in my office son, too! working on some award packages At this point, I was able to for my civilian employees when connect with Jessica Hansen, I was struck with a compelling who is now living down in Texquestion: What was Tyler Corcoras. She had some great ideas for an up to? I decided to shoot him the reunion, which I’m certainClass of 2017: Malcolm Thomas with friends Andrew Abajon and Sophia a message and find out! Turns out ly looking to incorporate if we Goyonaga on a trip to the Grand Canyon. he is still up in Philly working on can! With us being down to a 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes the submarine fleet. We caught up, sharing updates about our respective families and the like. I also learned Tyler doesn’t live too far from Brian Colitti, who is stationed up that way with the Air Force, so they manage to get together from time to time. After that, I went a bit crazy with the class roster updates. Many of you were pestered incessantly to get your contact info updated, and I thank you for it! Still, the nice side-product of this rather frustrating phenomenon is that I was able to get updates from a ton of you! Matt Lloyd was first. He graduated from law school a few years back and now works and lives down in Alabama. He wished me well in my efforts to escape the military and seems excited to be getting more updates from us regarding the 10th Reunion. Hope to see you there! Next was Dakoda Lane, who now lives in Virginia. However, at the point I found him, he was “enjoying the endless Somalian summer” in (you guessed it) Somalia! Turns out he was deployed with the Virginia National Guard to be a true Jedi knight and help keep peace in the region. When he gets back, he will continue working as a superintendent for Barton Malow Builders as they work on the new VCU dental school project in Richmond. Never a dull moment! Stay safe out there! Doug Gardner got back to me around the same time, right in the middle of his efforts to move. Hope it was a smooth relocation, BR! Perhaps my greatest achievement to date: I managed to get the line for Collyn Dashner updated! This is not because Dashner was avoiding me, far from it! He, being the knowledgeable MP that he is, took the opportunity to ensure I was who I say! Upon proving myself (through semi-self-deprecating and degrading Rat Line stories ... I think I will always remember Pat de la Cruz ’15 calling me “Portholes,” due to my thick-framed, and likely indestructible, rat-era glasses), Collyn let me know all that is going on in his world. He and the family seem well, currently enjoying the springtime weather of the deep South. He has run across a few VMI grads in his travels, namely Kyle Wills ’08 and Will Splees ’13, who, I believe, he is actually working with currently in his Army unit. In keeping with the spirit of Delta Company, my next contact was with Lawton McGahey down at Fort Stewart. Turns out he liked it there so much, he’s been twice! That may be an exaggeration, but I digress. He is assigned to the same battalion as Paul Mirabile, so they run into each other every now and again. Lawton commanded HQ and HQ Battery, 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (which also won
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the much-coveted “longest-unit-name-ever-created” award) during the 2023–24 OIR deployment cycle and now works as the Battalion S3 for 2nd Battalion. 306th Field Artillery Regiment, 188th Infantry Brigade (“longest-unit-name-ever-created” award runner-up). At the exact moment we touched base, Lawton was in Germany for a short TDY, but he did let me know he got the VMI birthday card and that he looks forward to the upcoming reunion! Elizabeth (Johnston) Johnston-Lee and I talked back in the early springtime. She moved to Texas—like quite a few of you all, now that I’m thinking of it. I guess we are all congregating in Virginia and Texas now. Anyway, she let me know that Olivia Emery would be graduating from medical school soon and was inquiring as to the process of sending in class notes. (Does this constitute a fourth wall break as we are now discussing it here in real time in these very notes?) For those who are unsure how to do it, it is very simple—a one-step process, in fact! You write up what you want included, including any of the photos that go with it, and then you just call, email, or text it to me. I’ll take care of the rest! Just make sure you include the names of all folks displayed in your photos. Lincoln Brush and I talked briefly this quarter. He has just begun a master’s program at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business. Good luck with the MBA, my friend! John Cima (da-da-da-daaaa) reached out to me after seeing my request for help finding lost class members on the VMI 2017 Facebook page. He, like many of you, is ready and waiting for the reunion. More information to come soon, BR! Next was Pat Beegle, who kindly helped me update his address after we discovered one of his holiday cards had been returned to me. He’s still in Virginia, just grinding away! Good to hear from you, man! Man, this is the halfway point of what I’m allowed, and I’ve barely made a dent in all the folks I talked with this quarter. ... We may have to do another weird issue split, as we did a few years back. Well, let’s see how far we get; if it ends suddenly, now you know why! Hamilton Shaheen, Alex Alvarado, and Mack Shehee each reached out to provide me with updated email addresses since the VMI addresses (mail. vmi.edu) are closing out July 1, 2026. For any who were not tracking, if you still use that address, you’ll need to migrate everything to a new email in the next few months (as I write this, so likely a much shorter timeline now) before it closes fully. After that, I got a message from Riley Morgan, who was helping me track down a few lost classmates. Good to hear from you, and very glad all is well up in Virginia! One of the
most interesting and informative contacts I have had this quarter came from Stephen Miller. He lives down in Nashville now, and when he isn’t fighting the insane traffic, he works full-time in the music industry for SESAC. Additionally, he runs a community organization called Origins Music Group, which books, promotes, and produces shows for Black and Latin country music artists. Additionally, Stephen has done a fair bit of songwriting and production while out in Nashville. He has even played bass and guitar on a handful of professional recordings for various artists, mostly in the R&B genre. Check out “Twisted Thoughts” by Ja’Cee and “Love Me for Life” by Gabrielle Lynn for some of his work. Thanks for sharing these with me, Stephen! The very same day, I got a reply from Fletcher Stephens (I know, two Stephen names in very close proximity, try not to get confused!) kindly providing his contact information in prep for the reunion. He is down in Florida now and was in the middle of preparing for a move when we spoke. Hope it went smoothly, BR! Andrew Lewis hit me up next. He is currently down in Atlanta and preparing for a marathon, having just completed a half-marathon (something I heard rumors about from Jessica Hansen). Best of luck with the training! Kristopher Richardson was next, doing his part to stay connected by updating his contact information. Thanks, Kris! At the same time, I was able to touch base with Austin Ross to clarify some info I needed from him. Thanks for your help, BR! Hope to see you at the reunion! Sometime that same week, I got in touch with Joe Bobay. Joe was a hard guy to find! I think that’s largely due to him having spent so much time out of the country with the Marines. He had been working on closing things up at Naval Postgraduate School (where he was studying operations research, the most enthralling and engaging of military-sponsored topics) and getting prepared to head to Yuma this summer. Sidebar: For those who do not know, Yuma is not a foreign country, though its name does make it sound like one. It is actually in Arizona, as a quick Google search just confirmed. Look, I majored in English, not geography. Moving on! Let’s talk about George Maddox! George works as a civilian for the Army Corps of Engineers up in Northern Virginia. He moved up to the greater D.C. area a while back. However, that is not what led to my struggle to find him! It appears, because of a fifth year at VMI (some people just feel compelled to take that victory lap) he had fallen into the Class of ’18 and maybe even ’19’s records by mistake. I’m glad we finally got you back! Mr. Maddox had some other good news,
Class Notes though. His wife, Lena, just delivered their second son, Leonard! Congratulations to you and the family, George! Hope to see/meet everyone in person next year! Hunter Marshall and I chatted around the same time. He is up in Virginia and doing quite well! We discussed the reunion (a topic which these notes surely prove is on everyone’s mind!) and general family wellness. Great hearing from you, BR! Will Suess and I were able to connect this quarter. He and the family are all over in Texas these days, having moved not too long ago from New Mexico. He had just finished up a clerkship out there and is about to be starting at a new firm near Dallas very soon! Good luck with it all, Will! Chad Jacob sent me some updates for the roster this quarter. He and his family are still in Virginia and doing very well. Thanks for the help getting your contact info squared away! Similarly, Tyler Watts and I connected to get his information updated, as well. It’s always hard to find those “ghost Golf” guys. I actually reached out to Sarah Lemon at one point to help me figure out who was even in that company! Thanks for the updates, man. And thank you, Sarah, for the logistical help! Keep in touch, all! So many folks helped me figure out bits and pieces of this contact puzzle this quarter. Special thanks goes to Ryan Asuncion, Malcolm Thomas, Casey (Field) Haeg, Ashley McManus, Alex Alvarado, Zach Bugalla, and Cody Bottoms for their help. Speaking of Cody, we are currently in the midst of planning a visit to Kansas City for a concert this summer. Hopefully, we will have pictures to share in a future issue and if we were able to work out our schedules to make it happen! At the very least, I’ll stop in to visit him briefly on my way back East this fall/winter. I had a long phone conversation with Zach Bugalla this quarter. He is currently separating from active duty and making his way back to Tennessee with his wife, Alex, and their two dogs. By the time next the issue rolls around, he’ll be back in Nashville, running into every VMI graduate in the city. I swear, Boogie knows three things with complete infallibility: Who in his given region went to/ graduated from VMI along with their class year, who in our class is Jewish (which is likely due to having attended services with them as a cadet), and who is originally from Tennessee. His ability to know this with such certainty is a bit uncanny. Still, it was great chatting with you, BR! Hope to be able to catch up in person on your way back East. It was at this point that Joe Baumann, Casey Haeg, Ryan Asuncion, and I set up a call to discuss some of the logistics and planning for our reunion. A lot of things were discussed that are
being refined as we speak. However, it turns out I’ve been giving you the wrong season to project your plans! I apologize. After clarifying some points of confusion with the team and the Alumni Agencies, here is all you need to know for any future reunion timelines: 5th, 10th, 15th, 25th, 35th, and 45th Reunions are all fall events. The 20th, 30th, 40th, and 50th Reunions are all spring events. There is a pattern here, as you can clearly see, but the 10th Reunion (and only that one) breaks it. We’ll talk about everything that comes after the 50th once we get much, much closer! But let’s get back to more immediate affairs. Our specific weekend for the 10th Reunion won’t be locked in until the football schedule is ironed out for 2027, likely sometime this fall. Even so, you can rest assured the 10th Reunion will take place in the fall, not spring 2027 (contrary to the statements from my notes in past issues). Joe, Ryan, and Casey have some great ideas, and I can’t wait to bring you all up to speed in the next issue or perhaps the one after that. You should have all the information you’ll need by New Year’s. Now that I’ve bought myself a few months before the onslaught of reunion questions resumes, let’s talk about a few folks I missed in my last update. I’m not sure why these updates didn’t make it in; perhaps I was out of space or perhaps I was a bit disorganized. Regardless, let’s start with Grant Holmes. Grant and I chatted briefly last year when he updated his phone number and address, the most riveting of subject matter. Clearly, the conditioning has set in well, though, as he reached out to me before I even realized I would have to go hunting for him again! He and his wife, Alessandra, just welcomed another child, Marshall Holmes, recently. Congratulations to you and the family! They also moved to Wyoming last fall and are enjoying the quiet life and new landscapes of the Northwest. Continuing with my flashback of folks I missed in recent issues, in late 2025, I also had a brief conversation with Devon Kirk, who was kindly welcoming me back after being deployed to Qatar last year. Great hearing from you, BR! I had completely forgotten that Kyle Harrell and I had a long conversation, as well, following his receipt of the VMI birthday card. He and Erin welcomed twin girls last year, Dorothy and Loretta, and have plans to build a new house, as well as a farm, in the near future. No time off for this family! Congratulations, Kyle, and thanks for the support on my comic ventures! Kyle kindly weighed in on some draft concepts that I sent him during our discussion. They’ve been delayed slightly for now, but someday you’ll get to see them published officially! OK, that brings us back to this quarter. Thank you
for bearing with me through that brief continuity detour! David Groseclose reached out to me this quarter (though I think it began on accident when his phone confused me for another contact he had meant to call). He seems to be doing well and kindly updated some of his information in preparation for the reunion. Great talking with you, Dave! Josh Butler recently let me know he moved to San Francisco for work and seems to really be enjoying city life. I suppose years of military towns will do that! I had only been out to San Fran once years ago, but I do recall some of it! We discussed the Haight-Ashbury record
Class of 2017: Brandon and Bethany (King) White ’18 on a trip to South Africa.
Class of 2017: Matt Johnson’s son, Logan.
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Class Notes store and other ’60s rock n’ roll history, as well as who we have kept in touch with from VMI. Turns out he had recently spoken with Pete Chapin! Hope to see you both in 2027! Garrett Hendershott reached out to me on Facebook when I was struggling to find him elsewhere. Turns out he, like many this quarter, is in the midst of a move. Having moved three or so times, I know what a pain that can be. Hope it was an easy one! Last, but not least, I had a long text conversation with Emily (Dawson) Surbey. She and her family (now a household of four) are still up in Northern Virginia making memories every day! They welcomed their second son, Cole, this quarter. Sidebar ... remember to send in photos often! We discussed future projects and plans, as well as (you guessed it!) the upcoming reunion. I look forward to seeing you and the rest of the family there! Emily also said she had talked to Yana (Conrad) Williams recently, who now has two kids of her own. How quickly these families all seem to be growing now! Yana, I’ll be reaching out for updates soon! Well, I’m out of space! Unfortunately, we couldn’t fit everyone I spoke with this quarter. It’s about April Fools (as I write this line), and I have another 20 or so people I didn’t include! So next quarter, we will have to do a bit of backtracking! See you then! Until next time, rah, ’17!
2018
Will Woodward Reagan Goulla
Brother Rats, We’re somehow already deep into 2026—8 years since graduation. Hard to believe, but starting next year, Will and I will kick off planning for our 10th Reunion in 2028. So start preparing your best stories (and maybe your liver). Now on to the best part of being a class agent—sharing updates on our brother rats: First, please join me in giving Will “Woody” Woodward our heartfelt congratulations on his wedding to Edilene McCaslin April 18, 2026, in a small ceremony in Winchester, Virginia. I
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am sure you get enough VMI lore from Will, but welcome to the Keydet family, Edilene! Continuing the trend of nuptials, Jake Foley married Melissa Jensen May 2, 2026, in a small ceremony in Stanardsville, Virginia. Todd Pinney and his wife, Emily Dalmolin, welcomed their first child, Scarlett Pinney, Dec. 26, 2025, in Weiden in der Oberpfalz, Germany. Scarlett wasted no time getting her first taste of Army life, making an international move shortly after birth as the family PCS’d back across the Atlantic. Todd and Emily are now both serving as Army ROTC instructors at VMI for the next couple of years. Huge news—Todd back at the Institute. Let’s just hope he shows a little mercy ... or at least keeps the bone and demerit count “reasonable.” Rah Virginia Mil! Nick Steinmetz and his wife, Ellen, also added a new member to the ranks, welcoming their daughter, Bonnie Steinmetz, April 15. Another future Keydet joins the pipeline! Congrats to the Steinmetz family! Ross Condry; his wife, Kayla; and their daughters, Molly (2) and Gracie (1), made a visit back to post while in the area visiting family. The girls are already getting early exposure to “Mother I”—call it a recruiting visit. The family is now settled in Charleston, West Virginia, though it’s safe to say VMI has at least two more prospects warming up in the bullpen. Cate Berry is set to graduate from Columbia University with a master’s in social organizational psychology—huge accomplishment. She’ll then be heading to West Point to serve as a TAC officer. We’ll forgive her for that. Hopefully, she brings some VMI standards with her—those cadets could probably use a little help. Someone’s got to show them how it’s really done. We’ll consider it a cultural exchange program. Eric Cedotal completed his Master of Engineering from the University of Virginia and finished his tour as NROTC instructor at Old Dominion University in January 2026. His next tour will be taking him to Washington state to be the engineering officer on an SSBN in July. Keep the updates coming; it’s great to see what everyone’s up to, and even better to see the next generation already getting prepped (whether they know it or not). As always, big thank you to those who submitted notes. Will and I could not do this without your support. I wish everyone the best and a great summer. Rah Virginia Mil, Reagan and Woody
2019
Manning Fisher Jordan FArmer
Brother Rats, Every August, I briefly think about the rats who are matriculating and beginning their journey through “Mother I.” And immediately after, laugh and thank God I don’t ever have to walk through those arches for the first time again. I don’t particularly miss living the Spartan lifestyle, or bargaining with L-Train for an in-county weekend, or literally anything that came out of Crozet. However, I do miss having all my closest friends just a short walk down the stoop and being forced out of my room anytime I wanted to be productive because my three best friends were being too loud or had every single light turned on, plus a headlamp to fix laptops that decided to take a swim (yes, you, Remig). All that to say, I miss the camaraderie the “I” forced on us, and I truly cherish every conversation or quick life update a BR shares with me. Speaking of life updates, we’ve got some big ones! El Presidente, Eli Facemire, and his wife, Rachel, welcomed their daughter, Magdalene Joy Facemire, March 13. Brian Hill tied the knot with his wife, Abbi, April 1. Calvin Lawson and his wife, Cassie, are awaiting the birth of their daughter, who should be joining the 1-9 family at the beginning of September. Conor Bremer recently left the Army and relocated to the Indianapolis area with his wife, Hannah, and son, Milo (1). Conor is starting his civilian career as an operations manager with Love’s Travel Stops. The world is a dynamic, complicated, and oftentimes dangerous place. It’s reassuring that some of the best people I know are working on important jobs across the U.S. and the world to preserve our way of life. Some highlights of our BRs serving include Cecilia R. Keppeler, who graduated from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, March 27, 2026. She earned a Master of Operational Modeling snd Analysis degree and was
Class Notes
Class of 2019: Capt. John E. Keppeler ’18, John J. Keppeler ’88, 1st Lt. Cecilia R. Keppeler, and 1st Lt. Joseph R. Keppeler ’22 at Ceci’s graduation from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, March 27, 2026.
Class of 2019: U.S. Army Capt. Zachary Hering poses with the colors at his change of command ceremony with the 512th Engineer Battalion. recognized as a Rear Admiral Wayne E. Meyer Scholar, having an outstanding thesis. Ceci’s two brothers, Capt. John E. Keppeler ’18 and 1st Lt. Joseph R. Keppeler ’22, and her father, John J. Keppeler ’88, attended the graduation. After graduation, Ceci took a brief vacation touring several European countries before attending further training in Newport, Rhode Island, and Dahlgren, Virginia, before reporting to her next duty station in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Bobby Fricke recently completed a naval combat tour in the Middle East. While at sea with the USS Wayne E. Meyer, Bobby had the opportunity to work alongside William Armbruster ’21. Zach Hering took command of a company in the 512th Engineer Battalion. Jake Drake PCSed to Stuttgart, Germany, in April. Neal Richards is also currently in command of
Class of 2019: Bobby Fricke and William Armbruster ’21 aboard the USS Wayne E. Meyer during a naval tour in October 2025.
Class of 2019: Eli Facemire with his wife, Rachel, and daughter, Magdalene.
the 760th Engineer Vertical Construction Company. Neal traveled to Fort Knox, Kentucky, in March for some training and was able to catch up over dinner with his old roommate, Jordan Farmer. By the time of publication, you will have received emails regarding the selection of the first awardee of the Capt. Jack T. Casey Memorial Award. We are aiming to present the award in November at the U.S. Marine Corps Ball. This is a huge milestone for our class as we work to commemorate Jack’s legacy and share his memory with future VMI Marine officers. If you have not received an email from Manning and Jordan about this, please contact one of them directly so we can ensure your contact information is current. Finally, as Sept. 21 approaches, we remember our BR Sean Hoang. Fly a VMI flag and do some push-ups that include one for Sean. In your own way, honor his memory and reach out to a BR. If you have something you’d like to share with the class, don’t hesitate to contact either of our class agents or email your update to 19erforlife@ gmail.com. Rah, 1-9!
2020 Alexander Dragan Holly K. Njabo
Class of 2019: Neal Richards and Jordan Farmer at Jordan’s home in Louisville, Kentucky.
Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 2020. 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes
2021
Jonathan Krauss Levi Kennedy
Hello, Brother Rats! I hope everyone had a fun and prosperous summer; the temps are blazing here in North Carolina. Can you believe it? Next month is our 5th Reunion! Where has time gone? We look forward to seeing you in Lexington! This set of class notes encompasses the period of Feb. 15–May 15, 2026, and boy, was it a busy one! To close out February, I was delighted to hear that Matt Reimann got engaged! On March 12, Jay and Gracie Kennedy welcomed baby George. On March 15, D.J. Swanson proposed to his fiancée, Katie. The very next day, March 16, Corey Iannotta and his wife, Samantha, welcomed baby Finley Cooper! On March 20, Patrick Higgins married his wife, Lillian, and Noah Breeding got engaged to his fiancée, Suzanne, March 24. On April 1, Matthew Jingle married his wife, Alexis! Jonah Eger let me know that he was selected as a member of the Olmsted Scholar class of 2027 and will be studying in Lisbon, Portugal. Congratulations, Jonah! Listen to this! While on a training exercise in Fort Irwin, California, Marines Beckh Robertson and Joohyuk Lee stumbled upon a once-ina-lifetime Jack Jones encounter in the wild and (with trembling hands, I’m sure) were even able to snap a photo! I guess Sasquatch does exist. On April 14, Ryan and Faith Riley welcomed baby Harper Amelia! On April 18, Jared Boileau married his wife, Melanie. On April 20, Austin and Megan Barrette welcomed baby Parker Elise! On April 26, Collin Perry married his wife, Georgia. Many Keydets were in attendance, as well as Cody Chapple serving as best man and Johnny Krauss and Sam Bonner serving as groomsmen. To close us out, Thomas Wetherell completed
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the Army’s Maneuver Captain’s Career Course, and Allen Xu graduated medical school and will be heading down to Wilmington, North Carolina, to begin his residency in psychiatry. Patrick Bowman reached out to let me know that he’s currently stationed on the USCGC Mobile Bay out of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, and has been since June 16, 2025. The Mobile Bay is a 140-foot icebreaking tug with a 125-foot buoy-tending barge that conducts aids-to-navigation in Green Bay and Lake Michigan, as well as icebreaking operations to keep sea traffic moving through winter. He and his wife just celebrated the third birthday of their oldest daughter, Maria, April 21, and their 4-year wedding anniversary April 23. It’s crazy to think that the great Class of 2021 will have its first reunion next month. Levi and I hope you can make it back to Lexington safely,
Class of 2021: U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Beckh Robertson, Capt. Jack “Bigfoot” Jones, and Capt. Joohyuk Lee.
Class of 2021: The USCGC Mobile Bay, an icebreaking tug on which Patrick Bowman currently serves.
and we hope to see you all there. Keep your eyes peeled for any last-minute details and instructions. It will be a good one! Before I end this class notes submission, if you didn’t already know, VMI has a new alumni app available on all platforms called myVMIalumni. It offers so many wonderful things for alumni engagement, and I invite you to download it now at vmialumni.org/myvmialumni! Until next time, brother rats! Mizpah, Johnny and Levi
2022
Seth McRoberts Kelly Rollison
Brother Rats of 2022, Can you believe that the Institute hasn’t been graced with our presence in over 4 years?! And in those 4 short years, the best class in barracks has already made a lasting impact on every corner of our nation. From families being started to communities being strengthened and bettered through our efforts, the Class of 2022 will keep making a positive impact on this ever-changing world. So, talking about these impacts, let’s get right into it. Starting off strong in the marriage category and soon-to-be-married category is Coy Harrington, who got married this June. We wish you both many years of happiness. Another long-awaited marriage came earlier this spring when Dane Hamilton finally wed his longterm college sweetheart. The Class of ’22 is passing on our luck and prayers to you both for your bright future together. BR Jake Kennedy also got married earlier this year. We’re wishing the best of luck to both you and your lucky bride, brother. Old Ayden “Jiggle Sips” Jilson got married to his new bride, Kendall, earlier this spring. Funny enough, Kendall also happens to be one of Kelly “Possum Police” Rollison’s second cousins, so you could say Kelly and Ayden are cousins now. The whole class, Kelly, and I wish y’all all the blessings in the world in your futures together. And, last but certainly not least, we congratulate BR Will Brady for getting engaged
Class Notes
Class of 2022: Ayden Jilson and his wife, Kendall, at their wedding in spring 2026.
Class of 2022: Jack Burke competes in the 2026 Best Sapper Competition. recently. We wish both of you seamless wedding planning and a lovely engagement. Now we also have some new members of the ’22 family to welcome or who are joining us soon. To start it off, Erin (Kozlowski) Delong and her husband, Trey, welcomed their baby girl into the ’22 family earlier this year. We’re so happy for your family and are sending all the blessings in the world your way. Sarah Wiltshire and Tommy Wiltshire welcomed their second baby early in May this year. We’re so happy for both of you and proud of the family you two are bringing into the world. Whitney (Roberson-Edwards) Alston and her husband, Eric, are going to be welcoming a little
one later this year. We’re so happy for you both and are sending love and prayers your way. Jacob Whitehouse and his wife, Kenzie, are soon expecting twins, a little boy and a little girl. We’re sending you both all the luck in the world for the new chapter you’re both about to begin. And to wrap up the soon-to-be births, we have Daniel Hamner and his wife, who are going to be welcoming their new baby girl soon. We wish you both all the blessings on a smooth delivery and a seamless transition to this new chapter in life. And last but not least, we have a few professional accomplishments that need to be mentioned. The first one is in higher education. BR Andrew Horton was accepted into William & Mary’s very competitive and illustrious law program. The same law program which founding fathers and U.S. Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe graduated from. We know that your work ethic and integrity will help you excel and distinguish yourself from the rest of your peers there. All of the best of luck coming from the Class of 2022. We would like to congratulate BRs Thaddeus Wegrzyn, John Tobin, and Allen Xu ’21 for graduating from medical school from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, Virginia, May 8, 2026. Thad will transition back to active duty, be promoted to the rank of captain, and is going to be practicing family medicine out of Womack Army Medical Center out of Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Allen will be promoted to the rank of captain in the Virginia National Guard and is going to be doing his residency in psychiatry down in Wilmington, North Carolina, in tandem with the Marine Corps out of Camp Lejeune. John is going to be doing his residency and practicing orthopedic surgery. We are very thankful to know that the future of U.S. and Army medicine is bright and in good hands. The next one was actually written by Mr. John Keppeler ’88, Bo Keppeler’s father, on him getting his wings in the Marine Corps: “On Jan. 30, 2026, Bo was awarded his naval aviator wings at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, Texas. His father, John J. Keppeler, had the honor of pounding his wings in, and his brother, U.S. Marine Corps Capt. John E. Keppeler ’18, and sister, U.S. Navy Lt. Cecilia R. Keppeler ’19, were there to help him celebrate. Bo is now at the Marine Corps Air Station in New River, North Carolina, learning to fly the MV22 Osprey.” We’re wishing you all the luck and success in your new transition from the training
Class of 2022: Joseph “Bo” Keppeler receives his wings in the U.S. Marine Corps. With him are his father, John J. Keppeler ’88, and siblings, U.S. Marine Corps Capt. John E. Keppeler ’18 and U.S. Navy Lt. Cecilia R. Keppeler ’19. world to active operations in the Marine Corps, Bo. It’s good to know someone of your caliber is in the cockpit watching out for us. And last but not least, we would like to congratulate Jack Burke, laxco legend, for being one of only two people selected to represent his whole division in the Best Sapper Competition this year. This is a combat engineer’s equivalent to the best Ranger competition and is on the same level of difficulty and is many a time more mentally stressful with the quantity of combat engineering knowledge required to excel in the competition. We’re incredibly proud of you, brother. Keep up the fantastic work. Over the next half of 2026, please keep reaching out to Kelly and me with any of your important life events. We love to hear it all, and we know the rest of the class will, too, seeing that we are now spread out further and further from each other. Also, just remember our 5th Reunion is coming up soon. We’ll make sure you are fully updated. But as for right now, we wish you all the blessings in the world and the strength to endure the challenges life will throw at you. So long and see you soon from the both of us; keep us and our families in your prayers since we are both down range at this time. Many Blessings, Seth “Spanky” McRoberts and Kelly “Possum Police” Rollison 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes 27, 2026, in New Braunfels, Texas. Both are in the military and will be starting CCC this winter. In attendance at their wedding was Ethan’s dyke, Jacob C. Sekerak Jourdan Bethea ’20. Congratulations, Ethan and Julianne! For BR reunions, Joe Egbo wrote in and shared Dennison C. Kelly that he and Ryan Fix met by happenstance in Poland in early April 2026. The unexpected reunion also included Eric Mulcahy (not pictured). I’m sure you all were quite happy to see each other out of the blue—best to you all in your continuing military careers! Lastly, back stateside, Will Caulfield, ConClass of 2023: Stephen Dudar and his fiannor Dabu, Dylan Whitt, and I (Jake SekerBrother Rats! cée, Shanna. ak) met back up in Lexington during the April We hope you are well! Another August is upon 10 weekend. It was great to watch a us already! With a new Rat Mass parade, share memories, and see our entering the walls of barracks, our rats! They even introduced us to some rats, Class of 2026, are just a couple of our grand-rats—a term which still months into their new careers or conneeds getting used to. Nonetheless, tinuing education, and all of us are we were happy to see our legacies not getting older by the minute. It is not just carried on but fortified by the next lost on us that time fails to slow down generations. We also had a chance to for anyone. Despite that reality, it is meet up with Ethan Hybl and remialways a pleasure to receive your upnisced on many good times. dates and to have the privilege of sharThat’s all for now, BRs! Thanks to ing your achievements and blessings all who shared; please continue to with the rest of the class! share photos with us as you encounter In this edition, we start with Steany form of VMI out in the wild. It’s phen Dudar, who let us know he is wonderful to see the VMI spider and engaged to his fiancée, Shanna Kim, familiar faces all over the globe. Stay as of March 12, 2026. Congrats to you up to date with the class between two! Class of 2023: Connor Dabu, Dylan Whitt, Will Caulfield, and Jake Sekerak with their rats and grandrats. each quarter’s notes with our InstaNext, Ethan Miles shared that he got gram @vmi_2023, as well. Rah ’23! married to his wife, Julianne, March Mizpah, Denny and Jake
2023
2024
Justin Peterson Allen Stewart
Class of 2023: Ethan Miles and his wife, Julianne.
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Class of 2023: Joe Egbo and Ryan Fix in Poland.
Brother Rats, We hope this Review finds you well. It is hard to believe it has been 6 years since we showed up to VMI with the intentions of getting a degree, and now our rats will somehow have rats and are heading into their 1st Class year. It has been remarkable to see the achieve-
Class Notes
Class of 2024: Alyssa (Ingerson) Roberts and her husband, Jude Roberts ’25.
Class of 2024: Braedyn Rose and his wife, Anastasia, at their wedding.
Class of 2024: Reynolds Short and his wife, Emma. After getting married recently after graduation, Joshua Licona and his wife bought their first home! On behalf of the entire Class of 2024, we can’t wait to be there for the housewarming party! Finally, if you haven’t reached out to a BR in a while, send them a text. Just because we are across the country or overseas doesn’t mean we can’t stay in touch. Thank you all for sending in updates, and we can’t wait to see you all again. If anyone has any life updates, please send them to us at the contact information listed above or follow us on Instagram @ VMI_2024. God bless and Rah, ’24! Titus 2:610.
Class of 2024: Rukshana (Sarkari) Carlton and her husband, Kaden Carlton ’23, at their wedding. ments and accolades that everyone has been earning. Without further ado ... Let’s congratulate Braedyn Rose and his wife, Anastasia Rose, for getting married and for also turning operational for offensive earlier this year! He also hit the slopes with Brother Rats Reid Cox and Daniel Galvez. We are sure that you are a lot better than the both of us combined ... Alyssa Roberts got married Nov. 8, 2025, to a fellow graduate of VMI, Jude Roberts ’25. Congratulations to you both! We wish you both a fruitful marriage! Rukshana Carlton got married Aug. 30, 2025, to Kaden Carlton ’23. Congratulations to you both, as well!
2025
Emma Kennedy Class of 2024: Billy Davidson and his wife at their wedding. Congratulations to Brother Rat Billy Davidson for getting married Feb. 28, 2026. He and his wife are also expecting their first child in November; congrats to you both! We can’t wait to have another member of the VMI family join us. Keeping along with the getting married train, Reynolds Short got married to Emma Nov. 1, 2025, at Historic Tuckahoe. Brother Rat Short was accompanied by a plethora of brother rats. We wish you both a wonderful marriage.
Dan O’Neal
Hello Again, 2-5, We hope everyone is having a splendid time away from “Mother I” as we come up on our first anniversary since graduation. As much as you try to run and hide, we still have eyes and ears everywhere to check in on you. 2026-Issue 3
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Class Notes
Class of 2025: U.S. Army 2nd Lts. Sam Voegelin and Zach Poche graduate from ABOLC. First, we would like to congratulate our newly eloped BRs. Steve Huelskamp and Bethany, Tim Dagneau and Haven, Hunter Rice and Mel Jimenez, and Cameron Revels and Lauren all join the ranks of class newlyweds. We wish all of you very happy marriages. Next up are the engagements and (hopefully) soon-to-be elopers, which include Walker Garner and Sarah, Brian Rogers and Shelby (about time!), and Ayden Sanders and Mariana. We’re expecting all of you to send us pictures from the weddings for the next editions. Thomas Langston, Jonah Jurack, and Ian Geesaman have braved Ranger School to earn the coveted Ranger Tab. Our class thanks you for sacrificing your knees, sleep, and hunger to do so. Zach Poche and Samuel Voegelin recently became our class’ newest graduates from ABOLC. Remember to drive safely and not hit the curb with the Strykers. A recent wave of BRs graduated from TBS in the swamp known as MCB Quantico. These graduates include Bill Lauerman, Emma Meidl, Dylan Colbert, Tristen Stower, Brian Pritchard, Diego Markie, D.J. Thompson, Justin Collins, and Josh Moylan. We hope your careers in the fleet are very oo-rah. After many long and grueling months, our class agent, Emma Kennedy, has finally made it to aviation school for the Army. She is yet to confirm if the wait to fly mechanical birds was worth it or not.
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Class of 2025: U.S. Army 2nd Lts. Thomas Langston, Jonah Jurack, and Ian Geesaman at their Ranger School graduation.
Wherever you are and whatever you are doing, we always love to hear from you. Always feel free to reach out with updates, and never be a stranger. Until Next Time, Emma Kennedy and Daniel O’Neal
2026
Daniel Walker Alex Bodner
Editor’s Note: Your class agents’ contact information is located in the above box. Send them your updates to publish quarterly in the Alumni Review: Engagements, marriages, births, advanced degrees, meet-ups with brother rats and other alumni—your brother rats care and want to know what is going on in your life. Please be sure to visit the VMI Alumni Agencies website at vmialumni.org. There, you can update your contact information, find information about your local chapter, register for upcoming events, read news and special updates, and more.
Baby Keydets PRYOR—A son, James Kenneth, to Nikki and Philip Pryor ’14, April 13, 2026.
Degrees Thomas Bower ’14 International Studies University of California San Diego June 2026
M.A.
Something New With You? Send it to the Alumni Review! • Got a Promotion? • Wrote a Book? • Serving your Community or Country? Send your news to review@vmiaa.org.
Class Notes
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. Vernon A. Jackson ’46
Sept. 21, 1925
M. Eugene Witcher ’50A
Jan. 3, 1926
Roger P. Rosenfield ’47
June 16, 1926
G. Harrison Whitten Jr. ’49A
Feb. 4, 1927
Arthur D. Violette ’48B
April 19, 1927
Robert A. Lettas ’48B
July 2, 1927
Charles R. Nixon ’48B
July 4, 1927
Angus M.G. Crook ’48B
Oct. 10, 1927
Thomas W. Altizer ’49B
Oct. 24, 1927
Charles W. Hurt ’49B
Jan. 5, 1928
Do you enjoy viewing photos from cadet and alumni events? Be sure to visit the VMI Alumni Agencies photo website! Photos include both alumni and some annual VMI events, such as Matriculation Day and Breakout. While these photos are copyright VMI Alumni Agencies, they are free for personal use and can be downloaded directly from the site. You may also purchase prints or merchandise directly from the website with the “Buy Photo” button.
vmialumniphotos.org Or scan the QR code with your smartphone or tablet camera to access the website.
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Legacy Provisional Appointments Provisional appointments are ceremonial and do not provide an admissions advantage. Admission to VMI is based solely on meeting the Institute’s established requirements. APPOINTEE’S NAME
2031 Turner J. Conlan
2032 Edward E. Holstrom IV 2033 Michael A. Kendall Henry Quillen 2034 Ava A. Kendall
2035 William M. Conlan
ALUM & CLASS
Michael J. Conlan ’01 Cyrus Kump ’68 Cyrus S. Kump ’928 Benjamin F. Kump II ’40 William T. Kump ’58 Herman G. Kump ’67 Cyrus S. Kump II ’86 William A. Kump ’98 Cyrus S. Kump ’04
James E. Westbrook ’71
James A. King ’92 Gregory G. Quillen ’06
Gordon C. Kendall ’03 Tennille C. Barnabi ’01 Matthew D. Sharpe ’04
Michael J. Conlan ’01 Cyrus K. Kump ’68 Cyrus S. Kump ’928 Benjamin F. Kump II ’40 William T. Kump ’58 Herman G. Kump ’67 Cyrus S. Kump II ’86 William A. Kump ’98 Cyrus S. Kump ’04
RELATIONSHIP
Father Grandfather Great-grandfather Great-great-uncle Great-uncle Great-uncle Cousin Uncle Uncle
Grandfather
Uncle Father
Father Aunt Uncle
Father Grandfather Great-grandfather Great-great-uncle Great-uncle Great-uncle Cousin Uncle Uncle
APPOINTEE’S NAME
2042 Oliver J. Canceran
Michael J. Conlan ’01 Cyrus K. Kump ’68 Cyrus S. Kump ’928 Benjamin F. Kump II ’40 William T. Kump ’58 Herman G. Kump ’67 Cyrus S. Kump II ’86 William A. Kump ’98 Cyrus S. Kump ’04
Father Grandfather Great-grandfather Great-great-uncle Great-uncle Great-uncle Cousin Uncle Uncle
Father Uncle Grandfather Great-grandfather
2043 Spencer Brickles
Tyler Brickles ’15
Father
2044 Henry J. Anderson
George E. Anderson ’77
Grandfather
Bruce C. Cann ’77 Lawrence B. Cann Jr. ’41
Grandfather Great-grandfather
Sean M. Fish ’14 Bruce C. Cann ’71 Lawrence B. Cann Jr. ’41
Father Grandfather Great-grandfather
Alexandria A. Gagnon ’14 James R. Strane ’14 Carl M. Hirsch ’61 Dennis W. Crowley ’63
Mother Father Great-grandfather Great-uncle
Katrina Brown ’06 Michael J. Smith ’77 Charles F. Plageman ’90 G. Moffett King Jr. ’933
Mother Grandfather Step-grandfather Great-greatgrandfather Grandfather Great-grandfather Great-uncle Uncle Grandfather Uncle Father Mother Father Grandfather Aunt Father Great-grandfather
Kylo Eubanks
2045 Richard M. Cann
2046 Warren Fish Andrew L. Holmes
2047 Mabel F. Strane Oliver D. Sullivent
2048 Jordan J. Brown Thadeus A. Meradith-Eyers Harvey R. Fitzgerald
Calvin R. Kerley Briggs H. Rhodenizer Evelyn J. Waterbury
Adelaide T. Wilkins 2038 Jocelynn Howard
George S. Horan ’83 Lewis R. Elliott ’62
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Grandfather Great-grandfather
RELATIONSHIP
Gabby V. Canceran ’06 Mark C. Loyd ’05 George S. Horan ’83 Lewis R. Elliott ’62
Boston T. Heely 2037 Henry K. Conlan
ALUM & CLASS
Robert A. Heely ’69 Dale H. Heely ’40 James E. Heely ’71 Robert A. Heely Jr. ’98 Troy V. Heskett ’86 James W. Hardey ’12 Henry L. Rhodenizer ’12 Abigail L. Waterbury ’14 Benjamin M. Waterbury ’13 Tynan A. Dawson ’84 Emily (Dawson) Surbey ’17 Joseph M. Wilkins ’19 Robert A. Guthans ’51
Taps Albert L. Loth Jr. ’48B
William C. Noell Jr. ’53
Albert Linwood “Al” Loth Jr. ’48B of Richmond, Virginia, died Feb. 5, 2026. He was 98. He matriculated from Richmond and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. He completed the Program for Management Development at Harvard Business School. He is survived by his daughters, Linda Whitehead (Steve), Paula Edmunds (Holt), Anne Pallotta (Dean), and Leslie Roberts (Michael); grandchildren, Brewster Richardson (Tara), Katherine Field (Rusty), Laura Fitzgerald (Kevin), Scott Richardson, Jared Newton (Kate), Alex Cramer (Laura), Thomas Cramer (Elise), Justin Black (Maeve), and Parker Black; and 14 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Elliott Loth.
Retired U.S. Air Force Col. William Cedric “Bill” Noell Jr. ’53 of Lexington, Virginia, died Feb. 7, 2026. He was 94. At the time of his death, he was serving as class agent for the Class of 1953. He matriculated from Alexandria, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Judith J. “Judy” Noell; children, William C. Noell III (Judy), James R. Noell (Fonda), John Lee W. Noell ’84 (Tracy), Christopher B. Noell (Ashley), Andrew M. Jay (Heidi), and Jennifer Jay Beacham (Brad); grandchildren, Jordan Noell, Bobby Noell (Heather), Sandy Beale (Andy), Shelly Noell, Travis Parker (Darcy), Miller Jay ’26, Peyton Jay, Jackson Beacham (Emma), Addie Jay Beacham (Rosser), Judson Beacham, and Mary Jude Beacham; eight great-grandchildren; and sister, Shirley Chaffee. He was preceded in death by his father, William C. Noell, Class of 1924, who died Sept. 28, 1970.
Maxwell C. Feinman ’49B Maxwell Carlton “Max” Feinman ’49B, M.D., of Lynchburg, Virginia, died Feb. 12, 2026. He was 97. He matriculated from Lynchburg and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medical from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Virginia. He is survived by his children, Steven Allen Feinman, James Ben Feinman (Laurel), Terri Sue O’Hara (Mark), and Robert M. Feinman; grandchildren, Holly Maxwell O’Hara, Benjamin Peace Feinman, Peter Nathaniel Feinman, Hallie Jane Feinman, and Maxwell Summitt Feinman; and former daughter-inlaw, Deborah Barr Feinman. He was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene Spandorfer “Bunny” Feinman, and brothers, Gilbert T. Feinman (Virginia) and Edward R. Feinman (Maxine).
John F. Roche III ’52 John Francis Roche III ’52 of San Diego, California, died Jan. 4, 2026. He was 95. He matriculated from Albany, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from George Washington University. He is survived by his partner, Mary Kelley; children, Kathryn, Jennifer, John, William, Constance, and Ian; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Nancy and Robert.
Bert D. Benton Jr. ’54 Bert Durell Benton Jr. ’54 of Jacksonville, Florida, died July 1, 2025. He was 93. He matriculated from Atlanta, Georgia, and spent 1 year at VMI. He is survived by his children, Bert Durell Benton III (Mary), Patrick Frank Benton (Terry), and Jim Anderson Benton (Kristi), and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Florence Anderson Benton.
Richard A. Baugh ’55 Richard Aubrey Baugh ’55 of Tazewell, Virginia, died Sept. 6, 2025. He was 91. He matriculated from Tazewell and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree from the Drexel Institute of Technology. He is survived by his wife, Priscilla Baugh; son, Steven C. Baugh; and brother-in-law, Pat Stinson. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Jack Baugh and Mary Jane Stinson.
Frank A. Boxley ’55 Frank Alger Boxley ’55 of Roanoke, Virginia, died Jan. 25, 2026. He was 92. He matriculated from Roanoke and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.
He is survived by his wife, Betty; children, Evelyn Boxley Bunker, Frank A. Boxley Jr., and Virginia Saunders Boxley; and grandchildren, Charlotte Bennett (Cameron), Frank Boxley III, and Hudson Boxley. He was preceded in death by his brother, Abney S. “Buck” Boxley Jr. ’54, who died April 22, 1988, and father, Abney S. Boxley, Class of 1925, who died Aug. 9, 1975.
Henry G. Hager III ’55 Henry George Hager III ’55, LLD, of Fort Myers, Florida, died June 27, 2024. He was 90. He matriculated from Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and spent just over 1 year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wesleyan University, a Doctor of Professional Studies degree from Waynesburg University, a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Doctor of Laws degree from Lycoming College. He is survived by his children, Hannah Hager Davis (Eric) and Eleanor Hager Temelini (David), and grandchildren, Ariana, Kaya, and Charles Temelini. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sally Ann Parrish Hager, and sister, Gretchen Telek.
Donald H. Coombs ’57 Donald Herman “Don” Coombs ’57 of Roanoke, Virginia, died March 30, 2026. He was 91. He matriculated from Albany, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Judith Coombs, and daughter, Nancy.
John J. Kilday ’57 John Joseph Kilday ’57 of Chesapeake, Virginia, died May 17, 2025. He was 89. He matriculated from Quantico, Virginia, and spent 2 years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Naval Academy, a Bachelor of Science degree from the Naval Postgraduate School, and a Master of Business Administration degree from Old Dominion University. He is survived by his children, Kent Kilday (Debbie), Kitrina Holshouser (Paul), and Kassandra Pagan (Eddie); eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Karen.
Charles W. Locke Jr. ’57 Charles William “Bill” Locke Jr. ’57 of Bristol, 2026-Issue 3
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Taps Virginia, died March 19, 2026. He was 90. He matriculated from Big Stone Gap, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree from Appalachian State University. He is survived by his wife, Carol Locke; children, Elizabeth LeAnn Fleenor and Michael Locke (Kimberly); grandchildren, Beth Fleenor, Rachel Little, and Kelly Locke; and great-granddaughter, Mariana Little. He was preceded in death by his step-sister, Shirley Sharp.
Alexander M. Clarke ’58 Alexander Mallory “Alex” Clarke ’58, Ph.D., of Richmond, Virginia, died Feb. 1, 2026. He was 89. He matriculated from Richmond and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Virginia. He is survived by his wife, Xuguang Clarke; children, Alexander (Carolyn), Connor (Karen), Vasa, and Henrietta; and granddaughter, Laura (Kyle). He was preceded in death by his daughter, Linda, and father, Joseph V. Clarke, Class of 1926, who died May 11, 1985.
John F. Sullivan Jr. ’58 John Fallon “Jack” Sullivan Jr. ’58 of Clinton, Mississippi, died April 19, 2026. He was 90. He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his sons, John F. Sullivan III ’83 (Hope) and James S. Sullivan (Suzanne); grandson, John Fallon Sullivan IV; brother, Fred C. Sullivan (Jeannie); and sister-in-law, Ann Sullivan. He was preceded in death by his wife, Eliza Buchanan “Liza” Sullivan; brother, William E. “Bill” Sullivan; and father, John F. Sullivan, Class of 1929, who died March 4, 1972.
Russell C. Chew Jr. ’59 Russell Carter Chew Jr. ’59 of Williamsport, Maryland, died April 3, 2026. He was 89. He matriculated from Lynchburg, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI.
Walter Ferony ’59 Walter “Walt” Ferony ’59 of Burke, Virginia,
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died March 21, 2026. He was 88. He matriculated from Annandale, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Civil Engineering degree from Yale University. He is survived by his children, Jeff (Kathy), Sharon (Alan), Laura (John), and Jennifer (Doug), and grandchildren, Caitlyn, Nick, Melanie, Matt, Christina, Adam, Hannah, Jason, Joey, Mia, and Will.
He matriculated from Lancaster, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Tulane University. He is survived by his children, Michael Edward Herrman and Marie Balland, and step-children, Leslie and Lynn. He was preceded in death by his wives, Marlene and Mary Elise, and brother, Thomas.
William B. Kessler Jr. ’59
Linwood P. Knight Jr.’60
William Berret “Bill” Kessler Jr. ’59 of Huntington Beach, California, died April 3, 2026. He was 88. He matriculated from Montgomery, Alabama, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Colorado. He is survived by his children, William Mitchell “Mitch” Kessler, Elizabeth Ann Kessler Rector, Lisa Marie Kessler D’Ambrosio, and William Berret Kessler III; grandchildren, Katie Kessler, Annie Kessler, Alex Rector, Ben Rector, Drew D’Ambrosio, Anthony D’Ambrosio, and Kate D’Ambrosio; great-grandchildren, Arthur Bernstein, Camilla D’Ambrosio, and Hallie Rector; and siblings, William Ingram and Carolyn Trimble. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Kathryn Faron Kessler, and brother, Hubert Kessler.
Linwood Polk Knight Jr. ’60 of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, died April 9, 2026. He was 86. He matriculated from Portsmouth, Virginia, and spent 3 years at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Beverley; daughters, Betsy Spotts (Wyette) and Pamela Knight; grandchildren, Megan Kock (Josh) and Spencer Guidry; brother, Richard Keatley (Kay); and brother-in-law, C.B. Spencer.
Frank L. Ferrier ’60 Frank Louis Ferrier ’60, M.D., of Atlanta, Georgia, died April 8, 2026. He was 87. He matriculated from Atlanta and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Virginia and a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Medical College of Virginia. He is survived by his wife, Iris Capo Ferrier; children, Leslie Ferrier Campbell and Todd William Ferrier (Kim); and grandchildren, Alexander Gould Campbell IV, Augusta Price Campbell, Katharine Ferrier Campbell, Ann Austin Campbell, Charlotte Garvin Ferrier, Colton William Ferrier, and Katherine Campbell Ferrier. He was preceded in death by his son, Frank Louis Ferrier Jr.
Gerald E. Herrmann ’60 Gerald Edward “Jerry” Herrmann ’60 of Land O’ Lakes, Florida, died Feb. 15, 2026. He was 87.
Michael H. Pitt ’60 Michael Herbert “Mike” Pitt ’60 of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died Feb. 12, 2026. He was 87. He matriculated from Chesapeake, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from Washington and Lee University. He is survived by his wife, Betty Hudgins; children, Holly Pitt Young and Scott Pitt; step-children, Bonner Hamaker (Okae) and Helen Younce (Rob); and sister-in-law, Stephanie Pitt. He was preceded in death by his brother, Jimmy Pitt.
Richard C. Butler ’61 Richard Cary “Dick” Butler ’61 of Marion, Montana, died Feb. 27, 2024. He was 84. He matriculated from Clifton Forge, Virginia, and spent 3 years at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Betty Butler, and children, Greg Butler and Valerie Butler.
Charles A. Finnegan Jr. ’61 Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Charles Albert “Charlie” Finnegan Jr. ’61 of Fernandina Beach, Florida, died Feb. 2, 2026. He was 86. He matriculated from Charlottesville, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Southern California and a Master of Business Administration degree from the
Taps University of Texas at Arlington. He is survived by his children, Brigid Whitaker (David) and Jennifer Dym (Cary); grandchildren, Molly Buckley (Patrick), Caroline Biondo (Elliott), Stella Whitaker, Matthew Buckley, Amanda Dym, and Micaeli Dym; and sister, Patricia Fitch.
John D. Martin ’61 John David “Dave” Martin ’61, Ph.D., of Richmond, Virginia, died March 2, 2026. He was 86. He matriculated from Alexandria, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree from the College of William & Mary and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Florida. He is survived by his sons, Todd Martin (Wendy) and Andrew Martin; grandchildren, Stuart, Olympia, Calder, Josie Spurney (Ryan), Garnett, and Miles; and brother, Jerry Patrick Martin (Mary Lee). He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra, and brother, Thomas Wilbur Martin.
Richard D. Weede ’61 Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Richard Dunton “Dick” Weede ’61 of Lexington, Virginia, died April 10, 2026. He was 87. He matriculated from San Diego, California, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Virginia Beach Theological Seminary. He is survived by his sons, retired U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Cols. Richard Hunt Weede ’86 (Tessi) and Hank DeYoung Weede, and grandchildren, Sara Anne, Hunter Christine, and Kalli Anne Marie. He was preceded in death by his wife, Anne DeYoung Weede.
Howard E. Cobb ’62 Howard Evans Cobb ’62 of Manakin Sabot, Virginia, died March 31, 2026. He was 85. He matriculated from Piney River, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Virginia. He is survived by his wife, Nell; children, Mary Louise and Kenneth Cobb ’89 (Maria); grandchildren, George and Henry; and sisters, Mary and Linda (Rick).
He was preceded in death by his sister, Virginia, and brother-in-law, Carl.
A. Dennis Merklinger ’62 Anthony Dennis Merklinger ’62, D.M.D., of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died March 13, 2026. He was 86. He matriculated from Short Hills, New Jersey, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry degree from the New Jersey College of Medicine and Dentistry. He is survived by his wife, Mary Linda Merklinger; children, James Anthony Merklinger (Tiffany), John Addison Merklinger, Jeffery Dennis Merklinger (Debbie), and Megan Carty McCain (Sean); grandchildren, Olivia, Anna, Tyler, Emily, Isabella, Jacob, Max, Bosco, Sylvia, and Kierane; and sister, Gail Greer. He was preceded in death by his sister, Wendy.
Lathan M. Ewers Jr. ’63 Lathan Monroe Ewers Jr. ’63 of Henrico, Virginia, died Feb. 3, 2026. He was 84. He matriculated from Lynchburg, Virginia, and spent 1 year at VMI. He is survived by his son, Thomas Heinrich Ewers (Sarah); grandchildren, Caroline, Frances, and William; and siblings, Bonnie Gail Yelvington (John) and Richard Owen Ewers (Sara Jane). He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Heinrich Ewers, and sister, Mary Carolyn Kagey (William).
Michael T. Smither ’63 Michael Trent “Mike” Smither ’63 of Kearsarge, New Hampshire, died April 24, 2026. He was 84. He matriculated from Virginia Beach, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his son, Trent.
Granville R. Amos ’65 Retired U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Granville Ray “Granny” Amos ’65 of Fredericksburg, Virginia, died Feb. 26, 2026. He was 82. He matriculated from Culpeper, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Rita Amos; children, Gra (Lisa), Gregory (Kristen), and Rebecca (Jim);
grandchildren, Laken, Madison, Tre, Madalyn (Garret), Grant, Taylor (John Hayden), Reagan, and Jordan; great-grandchildren, Skylar, Carter, Riley, and Amos; and siblings, Jerry Amos ’69 and Patricia Johnson.
Thomas A. Finn ’65 Thomas Alan “Mickey” Finn ’65 of Wilmington, North Carolina, died Feb. 17, 2026. He was 82. He matriculated from McLean, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Jane Ann Finn; sons, Gregory A. Finn (Janet) and Jeff Finn (Kari); grandchildren, William Finn (Hannah) and Jessica Webb; great-grandchild, Andrew Webb; and sister-in-law, Marti Baumann. He was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Finn Graves.
William D. Hawfield Jr. ’66 William Dallas “Bill” Hawfield Jr. ’66 of Westlake Village, California, died Feb. 17, 2026. He was 81. He matriculated from Martinsville, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Virginia. He is survived by his fiancée, Rae Shumard; children, Kathryn Hawfield Frame and William Ramsay Hawfield (Kristina); grandchildren, Nicholas Caldwell Frame, William Hamill Frame, Charles Rhedin Frame, Sydney Anne Hawfield, and Alexa Rae “Lexie” Hawfield; brothers, Edward, Robert, and John Hawfield; and former wife, Nancy Hawfield. He was preceded in death by his partner, Joyce Throgmorton.
Robert H. LaPosta Jr. ’66 Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Robert Harold “Bob” LaPosta Jr. ’66 of Burgettstown, Pennsylvania, died Jan. 20, 2026. He was 81. He matriculated from Burgettstown and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree from Rockford College. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Jo Ann Hanlin LaPosta; children, Leslie Killen (Jerry) and Robert H. LaPosta Jr. (Tara); grandchildren, Jacob and Justin Killen, Grace, Ella, and Sydney LaPosta; and brother, Eugene F. LaPosta. 2026-Issue 3
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Taps He was preceded in death by his sister, Judith Ann Vajentic.
Steven H. Reams ’66 Steven Henry Reams ’66, M.D., of Williamsburg, Virginia, died March 5, 2026. He was 82. He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Medical College of Virginia.
John B. Farley ’67 Retired U.S. Army Col. John Bennett “J.B.” Farley ’67 of West Hills, California, died Jan. 26, 2026. He was 81. He matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He earned a certificate from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. He is survived by his wife, Carol; children, Tom and Julie; grandchildren, Gavin, Lila, Kate, and Griffen; daughter-in-law, Elizabeth; sister, Susannah; and sister-in-law, Dianne.
Ray E. Irvine ’67 Retired U.S. Army Reserve Lt. Col. Ray Emitt Irvine ’67 of Okemos, Michigan, died Feb. 12, 2026. He was 80. He matriculated from Augusta, Michigan, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Public Administration degree from Western Michigan University. He is survived by his wife, Anne Elisabeth Irvine; children, Sarah Anne Sainem Gordon and Aaron Dennis Lee Irvine; grandchildren, Harsen James Gordon and Ethan Emitt Gordon; and sister, Maudie Eunice Jean DeHollander.
Charles R. Moir III ’67 Charles Raymond “Charlie” Moir III ’67 of Fort Myers, Florida, died Feb. 10, 2026. He was 80. He matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Josie Ahlin; children, Alison Moir and Jennifer Griffiths (Jeff); grandson, Cadet Charles “Charlie” Griffiths ’27; and step-son, Austin Ahlin.
Hunter F. Taylor ’67 Hunter Fitzgerald Taylor ’67 of Henrico, Virginia, died March 8, 2026. He was 80. He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia,
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and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Virginia. He is survived by his wife, Catherine Vastine “Cathy” Taylor; children, Catherine “Katie” Wilkinson (Adam), Elizabeth “Breeze” Johnson (Bayne), and Emily Whittemore (Alex); grandchildren, Lucy Whittemore, Viola Wilkinson, Mary Johnston, Edward Wilkinson, Vaughan Johnston, William Whittemore, and Hunter Johnston; and brother, Robert H. Taylor ’75 (Sandy). He was preceded in death by his brother, James V. Taylor Jr. ’64, who died Nov. 5, 2024, and father, James V. Taylor, Class of 1938, who died Aug. 28, 1997.
Jackson D. Bareford ’68 Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jackson Durham “Jack” Bareford ’68 of Swainsboro, Georgia, died March 28, 2026. He was 79. He matriculated from Tappahannock, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Boston University. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Swift Bareford; sons, Jack Bareford Jr. (Ashley), Lee Bareford (Jill), and Taylor Bareford (Robin); and grandchildren, Sam, Charlotte, and Alexandria. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Gene and Danny Bareford.
Robert P. Trenck ’68 Robert Parker “Rob” Trenck ’68 of Norwalk, Connecticut, died April 14, 2026. He was 79. He matriculated from Port Chester, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in math from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Pittsburgh. He is survived by his wife, Missy Trenck; son, Michael Trenck (Jacquelyn); and grandsons, Arlington, Dylan, Cameron, Ryan, Zachary, and Joshua. He was preceded in death by his son, David Trenck, and brother, Edward Trenck.
Rodler F. Morris ’69 Rodler Frederick “Rick” Morris ’69, Ph.D., of Leavenworth, Kansas, died March 4, 2026. He was 78. He matriculated from Elizabeth, New Jersey, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. He
earned a Master of Arts degree and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is survived by his wife, Deborah Morris; children, Todd Morris, Rodler “Rod” Morris Jr., Cristopher Hawkins (KaCee), Kira Haynes (Terry), and Brion Hawkins; grandchildren, Adrienne, Avery, Landon, Reed, Jaden, Kahlibur, Kingsley, Nova, Luna, Farley, Layla, Carter, Aniya, and Jada; and brother, Kevin Morris (Colleen).
James P. Gillespie ’70 James Paul “Jim” Gillespie ’70 of Fredericksburg, Virginia, died April 9, 2026. He was 77. He matriculated from Woodbridge, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Strayer University. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Sue “Susie” Gillespie; children, James L. Gillespie, Jonathan R. Gillespie, and Emma-Lee Marie Hunter, and their spouses; grandchildren, Theodore Patrick Gillespie, Jolene Marie Gillespie, and Scarlett Elizabeth Hunter; and siblings, Richard Gillespie, Barbara Dennis, and Pat Fredette, and their spouses.
Marshall W. Muros ’72 Marshall Warren Muros ’72 of Okeechobee, Florida, died April 6, 2026. He was 75. He matriculated from Springfield, Virginia, and spent 1 year at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Katrina Elsken Muros; children, Michael Muros and Rachel Parker (Grayson); and siblings, Hilda Auffret, Sarah Ann Muros, Lynn Hartmann, Lesli Torres, and Scott Booker.
J. Leslie Dziewicz ’74 John Leslie “Les” Dziewicz ’74 of Lynchburg, Virginia, died Feb. 14, 2026. He was 73. He matriculated from Lynchburg and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his children, Jillian Fauver (Casey) and Jonathon Dziewisz (Mary-Brugh); grandson, Owen; siblings, Susan Bartlebaugh (Jim), Michael (Terry), Larry, and John (Diane); and sister-in-law, Glo Dziewisz. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Wade Fauver, and brother, Robert Dziewisz.
Larry W. Groome ’75 Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Larry Warren Groome ’75 of Summerfield, Florida, died
Taps March 31, 2026. He was 72. He matriculated from Matoaca, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business from VMI. He earned a Master of Science in Business Analytics degree from Boston University. He is survived by his wife, Frances Groome; daughter, Kristina Rigopoulos (Mark); grandchildren, Warren Rigopoulos and Addison Rigopoulos; step-son, Edward Turnmeyer (Erin); step-grandchildren, Zoe and Jack Turnmeyer; sisters-in-law, Wanda Groome, Diane Bryant (Wendell), and Mary Lou Schram (Doug); and former wife, Deborah Tang (Charlie). He was preceded in death by his brother, Ralph Bernard “Bernie” Groome ’71, who died Nov. 13, 2023.
James F. Stader ’83 Retired U.S. Navy Capt. James Francis Stader ’83 of Manassas, Virginia, died April 30, 2026. He was 65. He matriculated from Annapolis, Maryland, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from the Naval Postgraduate School. He is survived by his children, Jackie and Mark. He was preceded in death by his wife, Clara Stader.
R. Clayton Wagner ’83
Edward Ross “Ed” Crews ’76 of Cheyenne, Wyoming, died March 26, 2026. He was 72. He matriculated from Chicago, Illinois, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; son, Harrison; and brother, Donald.
Robert Clayton Wagner ’83 of Midlothian, Virginia, died Feb. 27, 2026. He was 65. He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the College of William & Mary. He is survived by his wife, Kate Wagner, and sister, Elizabeth Baskin (Bob). He was preceded in death by his father, Allan S. Wagner Jr., Class of 1950B, who died May 15, 2005.
David A. Heatwole ’76
Christopher C. Poage II ’86
David Alan Heatwole ’76 of Lakewood, Washington, died April 27, 2026. He was 72. He matriculated from Waynesboro, Virginia, and spent 4 years at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Eliza Heatwole; children, Billy, Michael, and Daniel; grandchildren, Rachel, Johnny, Toby, and Leo; great-grandchildren, Matthew and Malcolm; and sister, Jean Ann. He was preceded in death by his brother, Steven E. Heatwole ’79, who died May 11, 2024.
Christopher Columbus Poage II ’86 of Tucson, Arizona, died Feb. 6, 2026. He was 62. He matriculated from Reston, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree from the University of Southern California.
Edward R. Crews ’76
Erich L. Kurre ’77 Erich Louis Kurre ’77 of Fredericksburg, Virginia, died Feb. 3, 2026. He was 70. He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Young Hwa “Margaret” Kurre, and step-son, Kwang Hun “Jace” Yun.
Jason A. Carrico ’92 Jason Anthony “Jake” Carrico ’92 of Harker Heights, Texas, died Feb. 22, 2026. He was 55. He matriculated from West Plains, Missouri, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and international studies from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Stacie; daughter, Taylor; and parents, Bill and Pat.
Michael C. Rainwater ’95 Michael Christopher “Mike” Rainwater ’95 of Calhoun, Georgia, died March 4, 2026. He was 53.
He matriculated from Ellicott City, Maryland, and spent 4 years at VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree from the American Military University. He is survived by his father, Lee Rainwater; siblings, Matthew Rainwater, Julie Woodruff, Jennifer White, Jerry Boland Jr., Jason Boland, and Drew Bennett; and step-parents, Jenny Rainwater and Jerry Boling. He was preceded in death by his mother, Diane Ivey Boland.
VMI Family David R. Beauregard David Robert Beauregard of Richmond, Virginia, died Feb. 28, 2026. He was 83. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Marshall University and a Master of Accountancy degree from Virginia Commonwealth University. He formerly taught business classes at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Kristin W. Beauregard; children, Leslie Beauregard (Thomas D. Berry IV), Laura Beauregard, Christopher Beauregard (Jen), and Hannah Beauregard; grandchildren, Sckolher Berry, Sophia Trillo, Rose Beauregard, Christopher Beauregard Jr., Alexander Beauregard, and Emmeline Beauregard; and brother, Thomas Beauregard. He was preceded in death by his son, Joseph Beauregard; grandson, Thomas D.B. Berry V; and sister, Geraldine Morris.
Ivan W. Branch Ivan Waverly Branch of Lexington, Virginia, died April 2, 2026. He was 87. He formerly worked in the physics department at VMI. He is survived by his siblings, John Branch (Marlene) and Christine Rowe; sister-in-law, Kathy Branch; and brother-in-law, David Johnson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Irene Zimbro Branch; daughter, Janet Renee Branch Field; and siblings, Thomas Branch, Elwood Branch, Jerry Branch, Evan Willard Branch, and Mary Ann Johnson.
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After Taps
Thomas Joseph “Tom” Dick ’74 By Jeff Huckabee ’74 and Mark Levine ’74 On Aug. 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Winchester, Virginia, our beloved Brother Rat Tom Dick passed away. When Tom signed the Matriculation Book and walked through Main Arch, he did so with his eyes wide open about the challenges he faced. After all, his brothers, John Dick ’69 and Ben Dick ’70, both went through the Rat Line, so Tom had some idea of what to expect. It’s family lore that it took Tom 2 years to let go of his anger toward his father for not letting him go to UVA. Fortunately for us, by our 2nd Class year, Tom was all-in for VMI. After graduating from the Institute, Tom led a distinguished life as a successful civil engineer. For example, he was the assistant project manager on the New River Gorge Bridge in Victor, West Virginia, which is the longest steel span in the
western hemisphere, and he worked as a project manager building skyscrapers for one of the most dynamic construction companies in New York City. But his greatest contributions were to his hometown of Winchester. As executive vice president of Miller & Anderson, Inc., Tom—along with his brother, John, as his collaborator—not only built 31 public schools throughout Loudoun County but also renovated Handley High School, Shenandoah University, John Handley Public Library, and the stately George Washington Grand Hotel in Old Town Winchester. He was recognized for his professionalism and leadership by the Top of Virginia Builders Association, where he was a respected member and former president. Tom’s tenacious and steadfast pursuit of his professional dreams did not eclipse his personal life. He spent hours rebuilding and racing antique
cars—in fact, he raced in the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix for 10 years. As good as he was at refurbishing cars, Tom was even more masterful at building relationships. We remember him most for his quick and easy smile in barracks, for his uncanny ability to hide his long hair under his hat, for the times we spent listening to him playing his guitar and singing “Stairway to Heaven” or “Tea for the Tillerman,” and for the way he managed his love life while running track year-round, playing varsity tennis, and spending innumerable hours in Nichols Engineering Building. How he did it, we didn’t know; we only knew that he did it with style. Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia M. Dick, and their tight-knit, blended family of six children and nine wonderful grandchildren. And, of course, by us, his former roommates and friends.
Erich L. Kurre ’77 By Chaplain Joe Molina ’77, D. Min. Our brother rat and friend, Erich Kurre ’77 of Stafford, Virginia, passed away Feb. 3, 2026. Erich grew up in Wheeling, West Virginia, and attended Staunton Military Academy, graduating in 1973 before matriculating at VMI. While at VMI, he was active in the Student Grotto and VMI firefighters. Erich would often organize rappelling and caving trips to Goshen and Seneca Rocks, West Virginia. As a VMI firefighter, he spent numerous nights with fellow cadets battling blazes on steep ridges in nearby national or state forests. Erich was proud to be a private all 4 years and enjoyed the challenges and rewards of cadet life while finishing his Bachelor of Arts degree in history. Upon graduation, Erich was commissioned
as a U.S. Army infantry officer and endured the grueling U.S. Army Ranger School with many of his brother rats. Erich was very proud of his service as an Army Ranger. He also earned his airborne wings in 1978 and Canadian Airborne wings in 1982. After leaving active duty, he continued serving his country in the Army Reserve. During this time, Erich moved back to Richmond, Virginia, where he earned his Master of Science degree from the Medical College of Virginia and obtained his counseling license in the state. He retired from civil service in 2018. His last job was as the director of project execution teams at the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (Energy and Sustainability). Erich was also active in the community as
a lifetime member of the National Wild Turkey Federation, the NRA, and a master mason of the Glen Allen Lodge #131. Chaplain (and Brother Rat) Joe Molina ’77 held a special online memorial service for Erich March 26, 2026, that was well attended by Erich’s brother rats. Many fond memories of Erich were shared, including that he was a person of strong faith and a true friend to all those in need. Erich is survived by his spouse, Young Hwa “Margaret” Kurre of South Korea, and her son, Kwang Hun “Jace” Yun of Chicago, Illinois. Erich is the brother rat who will truly never be forgotten by those who had the honor and privilege of knowing him. Rest well, Ranger; you will be missed.
James F. Stader ’83 By Jamie MacDonald ’83 Retired U.S. Navy Capt. James Francis Stader ’83 passed away April 30, 2026, at the age of 65. A proud member of the Virginia Military
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Institute Class of 1983, Jim served his country with distinction for 27 years in the U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps, retiring as a captain in
2010. He continued his life of service afterward as a senior executive supporting both the Department of Homeland Security and
After Taps the Department of Education. Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Clara Zmuda Stader, and his mother, Elizabeth. He is survived by his son, Mark (Kristina); his daughter, Jacqueline Thring
(Edward); his grandchildren, Archer and Naomi; his father, retired U.S. Navy Capt. John Francis Stader; and his brothers, John, Paul, Thomas, and Matthew. Jim will be remembered for his devotion to
family, steadfast optimism, quiet strength, and deep love for nature and the outdoors. A loyal friend and faithful servant, he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and service that touched all who knew him.
Robert C. Wagner ’83 By Jamie MacDonald ’83 Robert Clayton “Wags” Wagner ’83 passed away Feb. 27, 2026, at the age of 65. A native of Richmond, Clayton graduated from VMI with distinction in economics and was deeply engaged in cadet life. He was a varsity swimmer, served on The Cadet newspaper staff, was sports editor of The Bomb, and was a member of the Officer of the Guard Association. He also rose through the ranks in the Corps while forming lifelong friendships within the Class of 1983. Clayton often spoke
with gratitude about the influence of his VMI mentor, Mike Strickler ’71. After VMI, Clayton earned his MBA from the College of William & Mary, where he met his future wife, Kate—a relationship that became the foundation and joy of his life. Although he began his career in banking, Clayton found his true calling in education. He devoted himself to teaching and mentoring young people, first at Good Shepherd Episcopal School and later with Chesterfield
Public Schools, where he was deeply respected and beloved by students, colleagues, and staff alike. Clayton is survived by his wife, Kate; sister and brother-in-law, Elizabeth and Bob Baskin; niece, Mary Peyton Baskin; nephew, Campbell Baskin; and cherished pets, including his beloved beagle, Charlie. He will be remembered for his intellect, kindness, humility, devotion to others, and the lasting friendships he carried throughout his life.
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Alumni News The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency appointed Charles B. Bott ’96, Ph.D., P.E., BCEE, as a new member of the Science Advisory Board, and he was chosen to serve as board chair in April 2026. Bott ’96 An independent U.S. government agency, the EPA is responsible for protecting human health and the environment by enforcing regulations, conducting research, and promoting sustainable practices. Bott, who serves as the Hampton Roads Sanitation District chief technology officer, leads technology, innovation, and research and development for HRSD’s wastewater treatment plants and interceptor systems. HRSD is a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia created by public referendum in 1940 and currently serves 20 cities and counties in Southeast Virginia and the Eastern Shore, an area with a population of 1.9 million. Under his leadership, HRSD has attained 10 active patents, with four additional patents pending. Matriculating from Jamesville, Virginia, Bott holds a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering and was a distinguished graduate from VMI. He earned a master’s degree in environmental engineering from Johns Hopkins University and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in civil and environmental engineering from Virginia Tech. He is a Water Environment Federation fellow and a Science and Technology Advisory Committee member to the Chesapeake Bay Program Executive Council. Bott is also a three-time winner of the WEF Harrison Prescott Eddy Medal for outstanding contribution to wastewater principles/processes research. He also served on the faculty at VMI in the civil and environmental engineering department from 2003–09. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in Virginia, a board-certified environmental engineer, and a licensed wastewater treatment plant operator – Virginia Class I. Socure, an artificial intelligence-first platform for global identity and risk decisioning, named
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Matthew S. Thompson ’02 president and chief commercial officer Dec. 11, 2025. Thompson will partner with Johnny Ayers, Socure founder and chief executive offiThompson ’02 cer, to lead the company’s global expansion, commercial and public sectors, and workforce hypergrowth. Thompson’s role will also include accelerating the development of the industry’s first decacorn—one of the rarest types of privately held startups valued at $10 billion or more. Socure is the leading platform for digital identity verification, compliance, and fraud prevention solutions. Serving more than 3,000 customers and 190-plus countries across financial services, government, gaming and prediction markets, healthcare, telecom, AI, social media platforms, big tech, and e-commerce, Socure’s customer base includes 18 of the top 20 banks, four of the Magnificent Seven, the largest human resources payroll and workforce providers, six of the seven largest sportsbook and prediction market operators, 150 organizations across the public sector, and more than 600 fintechs. Thompson, a digital identity pioneer and a highly decorated combat veteran, most recently served as Socure’s chief revenue officer. Processing tens of billions of identity and risk events a year, with annual recurring revenue nearing $400 million, Socure continues to rapidly distance itself from the rest of the market with its approval rates, fraud capture rates, and AI-on-offense capabilities. Prior to this role, Thompson served as the company’s first public sector leader, launching and rapidly scaling Socure’s government business into a market leader serving more than 150 federal, state, and local agencies. For nearly two decades, Thompson has worked tirelessly to transform digital identity. He holds multiple patents spanning mobile biometric liveness detection and tiered and thirdparty authentication. In the commercial sector, he co-founded and served as president of ID.me;
led IDEMIA’s Identity and Security North America business as senior vice president and general manager; and held a senior leadership role on Capital One’s identity services team. Earlier in his career, he held positions at McKinsey & Company and Goldman Sachs. Thompson was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. As a 1st Class cadet, he held the ranks of first captain and regimental commander. After graduation, he served in the U.S. Army, which included four combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment. In 2010, Thompson graduated with a Master of Business Administration degree from Harvard Business School. Claire E. Curtis ’23 was recognized by Simmons College of Kentucky, a Historically Black College and University in Louisville, Kentucky, and invited to speak at a Curtis ’23 press conference as one of two inaugural graduates of the college’s new Master of Science in Medical Science program Feb. 26, 2026. The press conference was held with Kevin Crosby, Ph.D., Simmons College president; Morgan McGarvey, Kentucky congressman; and Craig Greenberg, Louisville mayor. During the press conference, it was announced that Curtis was accepted into medical school. She is the first student from Simmons to do so in a century. Matriculating from Louisville, Curtis was a distinguished graduate and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology with minors in history and chemistry from VMI. Curtis was a part of the Institute Honors program all 4 years of her cadetship; held rank for 3 years; served as a cadet EMT; and supported the medical needs of Keydet athletes as a sports medicine team member, becoming the first female to travel with the football team. During her cadetship, she was also involved with the VMI Glee Club, VMI Theatre, yearbook, newspaper, and Cadence magazine.
Book Announcements
Trifocals: One’s Man’s View: Just Shadows of Shadows, But It Is All I Got by Ron Stultz ’68. Independently published, 2024. ISBN: 9781963502992. Available via Amazon. In “Trifocals: One Man’s View,” Ron Stultz ’68 shares 31 multigenre pieces of all different sizes, presentations, and flavors. These pieces are presentations of personal epiphanies, both large and small, to muse or ponder that explore and ask more questions than they answer. Stultz describes the book’s collection as 31 pieces of rubble in a pile like riprap. Upon spreading the pile out, Stultz says readers will see a variety of both heavy and light pieces in the table of contents. Pieces include a bombing mission for mining rights, the winds of ancient Egypt, a baseball World Series fantasy, finding the Buddha by a river, and a ship’s radioman’s empathic ears. About the Author: Matriculating from Winchester, Virginia, Stultz graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He served in the U.S. Army Air Defense Artillery and was stationed in South Korea from 1971–72. Stultz worked in the defense industry around Washington, D.C., as a computer hardware and software designer, a role that took him across the U.S. for the Army, Air Force, and Navy. He also created the Investment Cost Basis Manager application that was sold to PC users. Before his retirement in 1992, Stultz worked the last 4 years of his career as the International Data Corporation Federal Information Service director. The Bright Edges of the World: Willa Cather and Her Archbishop by Garrett Peck ’90. University of New Mexico Press, 2026. ISBN: 9780826369253. Available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Simon and Schuster, and wherever books are sold. In “The Bright Edges of the World: Willa Cather and Her Archbishop,” Garrett Peck ’90, author
and historian, traces Willa Cather’s adventures in the Southwest and how they influenced her best book. Six months before she died, Cather called her 1927 novel, “Death Comes for the Archbishop,” her “best book.” The Atlantic magazine concurred, including “Archbishop” on its Great American Novels list in 2024. A perennial favorite for people who love New Mexico, the novel tells an unusual story of two French priests and best friends serving on the American frontier before the arrival of the railroad. This Western work of fiction is loosely based on two historical figures, Archbishop Jean-Baptiste Lamy and Bishop Joseph Machebeuf. In “The Bright Edges of the World,” Peck explores how Cather’s travels to the Southwest inspired her writing. She visited the Southwest six times between 1912–26, and from these journeys came three novels, the last of which was “Death Comes for the Archbishop.” Through Cather’s letters, postcards, articles, and interviews, Peck traces how integral travel was to Cather’s imagination while highlighting the vital contribution that Cather’s longtime partner, Edith Lewis, made to the story. “The Bright Edges of the World” is richly illustrated to highlight Cather and Lewis’ extensive Southwestern adventures. Though “Archbishop” is a work of fiction, Peck explores how Cather wove some of the most legendary people in New Mexican history into her novel, such as Lamy, Kit Carson, and Padre Antonio José Martínez, while subtly hinting toward the complexity of Pueblo Indian and Navajo (Diné) faith. It is a multicultural novel that reflects the diversity of New Mexico’s people. “Death Comes for the Archbishop” remains a timeless book of friendship on the American frontier and an inspiration for people who, as Cather wrote, “have gone a-journeying in New Mexico on the trail of the Archbishop.”
in adventure travel and historic and cultural interpretation. He leads the Willa Cather’s Santa Fe tour, teaches stargazing, and leads many other tours. Peck has authored nine books about American history. Garrett has lectured for the Library of Congress, the National Archives, Smithsonian Associates, the New Mexico History Museum, historical societies, and literary clubs. Matriculating from Carmichael, California, he was a distinguished graduate from VMI and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in international studies, history, and modern languages. He earned a master’s degree from George Washington University and is a U.S. Army veteran.
About the Author: Garrett Peck ’90 is an author, independent historian, and tour guide in Santa Fe, specializing
About the Author: Jonathan K. Corrado ’05, Ph.D., P.E., has degrees in engineering, science, and theology.
Unveiling Deception: Understanding Truth and Lies in Spiritual Warfare by Jonathan K. Corrado ’05. Wipf and Stock, 2026. ISBN: 9798385261802. Available via Amazon, Wipf and Stock Publishers, and Bookshop.org. Deception is as old as the garden—and as modern as today’s headlines. In “Unveiling Deception,” Jonathan K. Corrado ’05 draws on two decades of military service and deep biblical study to reveal how lies are crafted, disguised, and deployed in spiritual warfare. Parallels between military psychological operations and Satan’s ancient strategies expose why falsehood is so persuasive: Because it always begins with truth. This book claims to be more than theory. It is a field manual for Christians who want to stand firm in a culture of distortion. Readers will discover how to spot deception early, anchor their faith in God’s unshakable word, and defend truth with clarity and conviction. “Unveiling Deception” is both a wakeup call and a call to arms: Truth is under attack, but victory in Christ is secure. Now is the time to put on the armor, sharpen discernment, and stand boldly in the light.
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Alumni News Matriculating from Cincinnati, Ohio, Corrado graduated from VMI with a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering. He has extensive experience in systems engineering, nuclear engineering (including enrichment), and nuclear operations, as well as research and development. Corrado has authored engineering and scientific papers, theological papers, military papers, and several books in his field. He currently works in both the defense and nuclear industries, is an adjunct professor, and is a captain/O-6 in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Corrado is married to Erin, and they have four children. The Black Belt of Virginia: Untold Stories of African American History by Jeffrey Bennett ’06. The History Press, an imprint of Arcadia Publishing, 2026. ISBN: 9781467158473. Available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and wherever books are sold. Witness the unique and often-overlooked history and contributions of Black people in the Commonwealth in “The Black Belt of Virginia: Untold Stories of African American History.” From 1865–77, there was a robust presence of more than 80 Black politicians throughout the state. Learn about the little-known history of a Black woman spy covertly disguised as an enslaved woman working in Confederate President Jefferson Davis’ home. In this book, readers navigate the significant network of free Black communities during slavery through essays collected for an exciting narrative of important historical issues, such as detailing more than 70 Black
communities displaced in Virginia, a church’s legacy through 135 years, and the significance of the land the author’s mother gifted him. About the Author: Jeffrey Bennett ’06 is a writer specializing in Black history, race relations, and African diaspora studies. Matriculating from Danville, Virginia, Bennett received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI and a Master of Business Administration degree from Texas A&M University–Commerce. His articles have appeared in TIME, USA Today, The Washington Post, Baltimore Sun, Richmond Times-Dispatch, Virginian-Pilot, Cardinal News, Danville Register & Bee, The Hellfighter Magazine, and Scalawag Magazine. The Trust Seeker by Angie (Gomez) Hall ’10. Franklin Publishers, 2025. ISBN: 9798893248319. Available via Amazon and Barnes & Noble. “The Trust Seeker” is a raw exploration of one woman’s journey from striving and spiritual uncertainty to a life anchored in unwavering trust. Through the story of Trina, author Angie (Gomez) Hall ’10 reveals how to navigate life’s most challenging seasons, including financial instability, career upheaval, and emotional isolation, by embracing the power of surrender. Trina believed that hard work and self-sufficiency were the keys to happiness. Yet, it was only when her meticulously crafted plans failed that she discovered the transformative truth: God’s love is not earned, and His provision is limitless.
“The Trust Seeker” aims to guide readers to release control and embrace the healing that comes from radical surrender; disarm fear by learning to discern the quiet, unmistakable voice of God; find purpose not in a title or paycheck, but in living a life aligned with their true identity in Christ; and experience breakthrough by making faith their daily action, transforming moments of confusion into divine appointments. This is more than a book; it is an invitation to leave spiritual stagnation behind. It’s a powerful testimony that when readers prioritize time with their Creator, they are equipped with the faith, power, and clarity needed to overcome anything. About the Author: Angie (Gomez) Hall ’10 wrote “The Trust Seeker,” a faith-centered book, after seasons of uncertainty, growth, and spiritual transformation. After finding Jesus and moving to California, she met two women who told her she was to write a book they both separately said would be called “The Trust Seeker.” In this book, Hall wrote about faith, surrender, and trust in God’s process. As part of the project, she interviewed 11 individuals who shared honest stories of perseverance, loss, redemption, and spiritual growth. Their experiences collectively reflect the belief that every season of life carries purpose and that God uses adversity to build character, integrity, wisdom, and endurance. Matriculating from Washington, D.C., Angie (Gomez) Hall ’10 earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. She and her husband reside in San Diego, California.
Staff News
King ’85 Transitions to Major Gifts Officer
King ’85
After 7 years of dedicated service as VMI Foundation chief operating officer, Meade King ’85 transitioned to major gifts officer at the Alumni Agencies June 30, 2026. Over his 30 years of service at the Agencies, King has held numerous positions, including annual giving director; Keydet Club chief operating officer; and major gifts officer, the post to which he now returns. “Meade has been a steady and trusted leader within the Agencies for many years, and his commitment to the mission of supporting the Institute and the Corps
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has been unwavering,” said David Prasnicki, retired VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer. Regarding his transition and years as Foundation COO, King said, “I have been surrounded by generous and caring people, both staff and volunteers. If I have lived into their expectations of leadership, it is precisely thanks to their strongest example and encouragement. My decision to step back a bit is necessary, and I am grateful for the opportunity to return to a major gifts role where I will continue to help people do extraordinary things for VMI.”
Cadets, alumni, family, and friends cheer during the Old Yell for the Class of 1986 at the April 2026 spring reunion.