West Point Society of N. Texas, Founders Day
6/8/2021
L to R, Jan & Rod Grannemann, Vicki & Hampy Hodges and Coralinn & Mick Maus.
Coralinn & Mick Maus have let us know that the West Point Society of North Texas held its Founders Day Event on 5 June 2021 at a huge BBQ restaurant.
Normally it is a black tie event, of course. But a survey of the membership voted to be informal this year, (actually counted for 2020 & 2021). Mick was quick to explain that
a particularly SCARY part was that our class was the oldest in attendance. Hampy Hodges, older by a few months than Rod Grannemann or Mick Maus gave the oldest grad address.
The photo pictures, L to R, Jan & Rod Grannemann, Vicki & Hampy Hodges and Coralinn & Mick Maus. We represented the Class well.
With around 200 in attendance it was a super evening. [Note that the Grannemanns observed their 50th wedding anniversary a few weeks earlier]
Company A-2 Meetings Give ZOOM a New Look and Sound
4/27/2021
During a recent conversation with one of the Alpha Deuce [AKA: A-2] stalwarts, we are now aware of their communication innovation.
Most likely we have all heard and even experienced the strength and the weakness [AKA: Frustration] of the ZOOM application. Well, A-2 has gone beyond the norm, as often the case, and
turned ZOOM into a fun feast of reminiscence and song. Bill Seltz’s Howitzer entry notes his membership in both the Catholic Choir and the Glee Club and now he can add another moniker,
“leader of the A-2 ZOOM chorus.”
He has perhaps given ZOOM a good name. A-2 does a monthly [plus or minus] Zoom company meeting. To add some flavor and comradeship,
Bill using the technology, provides advance song sheets with the lyrics that the ZOOMers belt out harmoniously under his musical direction. The tunes are among the long-ago
favorites of the A-2’ers so there is not only familiarity but also warm recollection of “the good ole days” from the Weapons Room or a weekend in the City…
“the Twelfth of Never”, “Give Me That Old Time Rock ’n’ Roll Music,” and maybe “The Purple People Eater.” [Seems the meeting passes by too
quickly] Using a more contemporary expression, “the bottom line” is A-2 has given the ZOOM experience new definition. “Try it, you might like it.”
James Scott Enters Georgia Military Veterans Hall of Fame 2/23/2021
Jim Scott, Tactical Officer USCC 1972-75 and soon after earning his aviator wings.
Heroic Army Aviator, ’61 Grad, Enters Georgia Military Veterans Hall of Fame
The Georgia Military Veterans’ Hall of Fame, located on the capitol
grounds has inducted a 1961 graduate. James Armitt Scott, LTC retired,
entered on January 29, 2020 before a crowd of 500 well-wishers that
including Governor Brian Kemp, and other distinguished guests, family
members, classmates, and several graduates whom he mentored as a USCC
tactical officer. The Hall of Fame selected Jim recognizing his
distinguished valor and service. He is one of the most decorated combat
leaders of the Vietnam era. His award citations and testimonies of
witnesses described him as a courageous, yet calm, and humble hero.
Scott was one of 15 veteran finalists among many applicants who served
during wartime and distinguished themselves for service or valor.
Currently there are 115 veterans in the Hall of Fame.
Eggleston ’61 Publishes “The Irish Brigade and the Corcoran Legion in the Civil War”
1/8/2021
Mike Eggleston '61 has published a new book entitled The
Irish Brigade and the Corcoran Legion in the Civil War.
This history tells the story of two brigades that
fought in the American Civil War: the Irish Brigade and
the Corcoran Legion. Most of the soldiers in these
units were Irish immigrants who left Ireland as a
result of the Great Famine (1845-1849). This book
covers the Civil War battles fought by these brigades
where they served in the eastern theater of the war.
Their campaigns are described in the Civil War battles
(1861-1865). At times the brigades served in
different campaigns, but in the final years of the war
they were together in the same corps. Each relevant
Civil War battle is summarized including details of the
specific participation of the Irish Brigade and the
Corcoran Legion. The history also describes the
participation of discharged Irish soldiers after the
war from both the North and the South who participated
in raids and uprising to free Ireland from British
rule. The initial chapters also provide the history of
earlier risings against the British such as the New
Irelander Rebellion of 1848. Finally, biographies of
key participants are included.
Eggleston '61 Publishes "The Colorado War 1864-1865" 9/18/2020
Mike Eggleston '61 has published a new book entitled The Colorado War 1864-1865. This book tells the history of the war that occurred in Colorado Territory during the Civil War. The major conflict involved the fight between Native Americans and Colorado volunteer regiments in 1865. Others were involved including Confederate regiments and outlaws. This book interrelates activities in the Great Plains with politics in Washington, army headquarters in the field, settlers on the Frontier and the Native Americans. It shows how other Indian wars influenced the war in Colorado and how the war spread to other states and territories. Where ever possible, the conflicts are explained in the words of the participants captured in letters, diaries and newspaper articles. Nearly a hundred maps and photos are included to describe the actions. This history shows the impact of the many treaties signed: how they were violated and the result of the treaties on the way of life of the whites and Native Americans. The focus of this book is on the military campaigns and battles fought in or near Colorado how they destroyed the Native American way of life. Famous battles such as the Sand Creek Massacre and Wounded Knee are covered, but lesser known campaigns such as Red Cloud's War are also included, since these had a major effect on treaties and on the people involved. The Native American wars ended much as they had started with mistakes, confusion and the tragedy of Wounded Knee. Orlando Mini-Reunion 9/11/2020 Tentative Dates
THUR 28 JAN - MON 1 FEB Everything is tentative at this point due to the China Virus. I will update you as things go along. If it is safe, then it will be a go. I sure hope so. It would be very nice to see everyone again and a lot of fun as always. So mark your calendars and cross your fingers If you have any questions contact me at 61reunion@cfl.rr.com
Mike Eggleston Publishes "The Sioux Wars, 1854-1891" 3/24/2020
Mike Eggleston has published a new book entitled The Sioux
Wars, 1854-1891, From the Grattan Fight to Wounded Knee and the Aftermath. This
book tells the history of the wars between the whites and the Dakota Native
Americans during the second half of the 19th Century. It interrelates activities
in the Great Plains with politics in Washington, army headquarters in the field,
settlers on the Frontier and the Native Americans. It shows the impact of the
many treaties signed: how they were violated and the result of the treaties on
the way of life of the whites and Native Americans. The focus of this book is on
the military campaigns and battles fought over a forty-year period and how they
destroyed the Native American way of life. Famous battles such as Custer's
defeat at the Little Big Horn are covered, but lesser known campaigns such as
Red Cloud's War are also covered, and these had a major effect on treaties and
on the people involved.
Ohio's Emergency Operations Center and Named after Dale Shipley
2/7/2020
Dale Shipley at the dedication of Ohio's Emergency Operations Center and named for him.
Thanks to Don Sawtelle we have learned that Dale Shipley continues to serve [even though he allegedly¯has retired; we suspect Eloise has a some thoughts on that too chuckle smile]
Don has reported that Ohio's Governor Mike DeWine paid Dale special recognition by naming Ohio's new emergency operations center for Dale, per the photo.
Dale worked with the Ohio Department of Public Safety, applying his special skills and knowledge to the planning and design, and construction of this state of the art facility.
In the 1990s Dale served as the Director, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for Ohio. In that respect the governor cited Dale's early initiative and perseverance as the catalyst
for this significant project, while at the same time recognizing Dale's mentoring and leadership of his successors who later updated the technology and infrastructure demanded by
Homeland and Security and school safety needs. As Don noted, our Class can join the governor in his recognition of Dale Shipley.
Linda & Glynn Mallory 2/6/2020
San Antonio: Linda & Glynn Mallory. Art Downey, David Brooks,
Bob Cairns, Phil Mallory
David Brooks has reported from San Antonio at the Army
Residence Community where Mimi and he have been residing for 10 years. It is
where also a number of our mates are present for duty. They include Nancy &
Howard DeWitt, Phil Mallory and Terry & Bob Cairns. Bob and Howard were David's
roommates in E-2; David married Bob's sister. Phil Mallory and Sharon had been
residents for a few years but as you will recall, she passed 4 July 2018 and is
buried at West Point.
Linda & Glynn Mallory live nearby in town which makes visits
such as this one possible and easy. So, as per the photo Art Downey, David, Bob
and Phil made the mini commute to check in with Glynn who is fighting the good
fight in his battle with cancer. Art has been a lifesaver for Linda, being on
call for errands, commissary shopping and moral support for Glynn.
Linda, Glynn's ardent support for these MANY years welcomed our Class Files to be seated to enjoy one her specialty afternoon repasts. Of course, remembering Plebe year, falling
out for a meal, especially in the presence of this distinguished Three Star classmate, was the lubricant for lively conversation and humorous reminiscences, especially of those
Cadet days of yore. Some time ago in a Class publication Linda identified herself as "Professional Army Wife". Given the care and attention she gives to Glynn [and with some a
ssistance from Art who lives nearby] she personifies that honorific.
Coralinn & Mick Maus
12/4/2019
Coralinn & Mick want to give us a bit of a picture of their experiences while embarked on the Class Cruise along the Elbe River, this past 14-28 September 2019.
Their description of sites and their impressions to include some history of WWII may be familiar to some of our mates and serve as a motivator for others to sign up for the next cruise.
Mick does mention one hiccup: [note his bold caps below]. Upon the conclusion of this site filled adventure and by almost any account, the cruise was another in a growing history of memorable
Class events. By the way, one more of which is the Kopcsak Pig Roast [coming soon to this site]. Well done to those who embarked and those who helped to make it happen.
The Maus Report
left: Frank Rauch, Mick Maus, Mike Eiland, John Java, John Grisoni, Mike Harpold, Jim Harmon
We just finished [our long excursion] with Viking Cruises starting in Berlin and ending in Warsaw [almost two weeks later.] You could call it the RIVER CRUISE WITHOUT WATER! As an explanation the Elbe River was about 6 feet too low for the river boats to cruise the river, so they became our floating hotels and busses took us from two docking locations to the various sites. It turned out to be a wonderful trip visiting Berlin, Wittenburg, Meissen, Dresden, Prague, Krakow and Warsaw with numerous terrific shore excursions. From Prague,
it was all by bus in Poland.
It was simply amazing how cities devastated in WWII in the former East Germany had been rebuilt to their former glory. Dresden*, for example, fire bombed 3 days in a row, first by the Brits then the USA and finally by both. It has been beautifully restored. Of course, Berlin has been prospering for quite some time. Krakow, home of Pope John Paul II, was very interesting and Warsaw was simply amazing.
All [of our mates] were taken back by the construction of modern buildings and the beauty of a city devastated in WWII by the Germans and then the Russians. (The trip was arranged by Lois Bradfield, LB-Tours and, as usual, all proceeded without flaw.) *Scribe note: Worth a re-read is Kurt Vonnegut's
Slaughter House Five]
Joan & Frank Rauch, Coralinn & Mick Maus, Chan & Mike Eiland [and flat Cullum], Donna & John Java, Teri & John Grisoni, Mike Harpold &
(not pictured)Elaine, Jim & Carolyn Harmon
Jim Scott to be Inducted into the GMV Hall of Fame
10/7/2019
Jim Scott has been selected to be inducted into the Georgia
Military Veterans' Hall of Fame. Currently the Hall has 100
awardees, including 30 Medal of Honor recipients. This is a very
prestigious award given to those who have distinguished themselves
for Valor, Achievement, or Service while serving in the active or
reserve components of one of the services. Jim was selected for the
Valor category given his exemplary record during 2-tours in Vietnam
which included the Distinguished Service Cross, Distinguished Flying
Crosses (2), Silver Star, Purple Heart (2), and numerous other
awards. The banquet in November is open to the public.
Courtney loves a good story
10/4/2019
Here is an anecdote that Courtney Rittgers has authored and sent to Mike
Hale who has generously [and with permission] provided to us.
Courtney while a bit modest and self effacing is one of our own
prolific writers and teller of humorous as well as thought provoking
tales. For instance his Class bio tells us that Legend has it that
our family doctor gave away his tickets to the Army/Navy game so he
could be on hand for my birth. As it turned out, he missed both
thrilling events. Army beat Navy 6-0 that year, and I was born
before he could get to our house in a blinding snow storm December
7, 1937 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. His tale below contains a bit of the
same humor and irony.
Mike's heads up is that
Courtney loves a good story.
Over the years I have come to
appreciate the Mark Twain feature¯ of his writing
For this reason,
while this dress incident was a gaff to Courtney, he wanted to put
it out there for the Class to enjoy and have a few laughs.
For me, however, this story speaks volumes about his life, his sense
of humor, his devotion to Mateele and his commitment to service.
Overcoming two liver transplants, while often traveling to distant
locations to help classmates, he is a true champion in in my book.
By the way, standing with Courtney in the photo is Mr. Colbery
Coldwell, a prominent attorney in El Paso whose law firm represents
the Mexican Consul General..Mike Hale 61
Story prepared by Courtney Rittgers, B-1
Unaccustomed as I am to being blindsided by a protocol gaff, my
September 12, 2019 - Mexican Independence Day celebration in El
Paso, Texas will remain one of my most hilarious protocol blunders.
Some background: My beloved wife, Mateele, a professional artist,
fond of Mexico, and it's artifacts in particular, accumulated a
sizable number of ceremonial masks, figurines, sconces, toys and
miscellaneous artwork from all over Mexico, during the 30 years she
lived here, before her untimely death from ovarian cancer in 2012.
Our family decided to donate this remarkable collection to the city
of El Paso's Mexican American Cultural Center as a tribute to her
many civic contributions.
It was in connection with the administrative process related to this
donation that I was extended an exclusive invitation to the annual
celebration of Mexico's Independence from Spain. An envelope was
delivered to my home by hand a week in advance. The colorful program
it contained was printed beautifully in English and included all the
instructions needed by attendees except the required attire.
Since the event was to be held in the El Paso History Museum, which
was responsible for hosting and coordination, I contacted that
office to learn what to wear. They had to check with the Mexican
Council General's office and would call me back; when they did find
out, they announced that "tails" would be required.
In retrospect, I should have checked further to confirm this
directive.
But, I did not want to admit that "tails" might present a hardship.
I had long since outgrown the formal clothing I had, so I would be
obliged to rent an outfit. After appearing to take this piece of
information in stride, I contacted The Elegant Penguin, one of El
Paso's purveyors of formal wear, to order the full package.
Fast forward to the night of September 12th. I walked into the
History Museum a little early to find at least 100 people had
already arrived, but I was lucky to locate a cocktail table for 3 at
the back of the room. I noticed two things right away: one, I was
the only non-Hispanic in the room, and two, I was the only person
dressed in formal attire - other than the waiters!
As the crowd grew, it became clear that I had been misinformed.
Eventually, more than two hundred assembled for this festive
occasion. The women wore cocktail dresses and most of the men were
in business suits. When I saw that the people who invited me were
not wearing "tails" either, I knew that the gaff was complete.
After recovering from the shock of this turn of events, I began to
enjoy my unique status, pretending that I was the only guest in
proper dress. And I could see that I made some guests uncomfortable
about what they were wearing.
As the evening wore on, other non-Hispanic people sat at my table. I
shared my dilemma with them, and they responded in good humor.
I like to think that after the party, when people were at home
again, at least some of those who were there that night wished they
had dressed up too.
Love and best wishes,
Courtney
Donald M. Lionetti 6 March 1940 - 6 March 2019
8/16/2019
July 29, 2019, Arlington National Cemetery on a slight rise of hallowed
ground, the Washington Monument in the distance, The Old Guard, of
the U.S. Third Infantry Regiment honoring our Classmate,
Don Lionetti. As many of our Classmates and wives followed
the lone Soldier bearing Don's red colored flag of three white stars
and who marched behind the historic horse drawn caisson bearing
Don's stars and stripes draped casket, the U.S. Army band rendered
those same rhythmic beats so familiar from our parades on the Plain.
The gravesite service concluded with the artillery salute of 15
rounds, then all listened for the Crack! Crack! Crack! of the Honor
Guard's traditional rifle salute, and the immediate sounding of Taps
somber notes. Prior to the burial ceremony, the funeral service took
place in the Old Post Chapel with eulogies and remembrances from
family and friends who were special companions during Don's life and
career. Major General Donald Infante, Brigadier General Roger
Yankoupe, and Don, Jr. offered prayers and thoughtful anecdotes
regarding Don as Soldier, friend , husband and father. Following the
burial, Bobbie, Don's
bride of almost 58 years hosted a breakfast
reception that provided time for our Classmates to recall their
times with Don from cadet days and right up until his passing. The
Connollys for one, were especially supportive during Don's final
days.
There was time too to share thoughts with those surviving
Don: daughter Laura and husband Mike Barton, sons Don, Jr and wife
Julie, Chris and wife Betsy and Don's brother Bill and sister Mary
Ann Gleason. Bobbie & Don had three grandchildren along with
numerous nieces and nephews. Among our mates present were
Lucy Paone, Paula Barrie, Marty Ganderson, Bobbie & Jim Blesse, Rina
& Ed Brown, Linda & Jim Connolly, Dawn & Bob Glass, Gina & Joe
Fishburne, Jan & Pat Hillier, Karen & Ed Leland, Bob Rosenkranz,
Mike Urette, Gene Witherspoon.
Well done, Don; be thou at peace
Mike Eggleston Publishes "The Montagnard People"
8/8/2019
Mike Eggleston has published a new book entitled
The Montagnard People in the Indochina Wars, 1945-1991. This
history tells the story of the wars fought by the Montagnards of
Indochina against the North Vietnamese, the French, the Vietcong and
others as they sought autonomy for the Montagnard tribes. The
Montagnards were loyal fighters with U. S. Forces during America's
involvement in the Vietnam War. The struggle of the Montagnards
continued long after the fall of South Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia in
1975. The end of Saigon's war did not end the plight of the
Montagnards. This history is based upon the recollections of the
author and others involved in the wars in Indochina. This book was
published in August 2019.
Eiland, Stringham, and White Assemble to Honor Donlon [former
59]
6/6/2019
Looking back to 5 December 2018 we learn that Jerry White,
and 7th Special
Forces vets Joe Stringham, and Mike Eiland stood proudly with the 7th
Special Forces Group, Eglin AFB. They were at the top of the list of the
invited civilian and military guests who had come to honor Roger Donlon
[former '59], the naming the Group headquarters building Donlon Hall. As
part of the ceremony Roger presented his original Medal of Honor to the
Group. It is the same medal that President Lyndon Johnson presented to him
to the day -fifty-four years earlier.
Donlon was the first MoH recipient in
Vietnam.
Joe, Roger, Jerry, escort, MAJ J.D.Kingsley ('06), and Mike, 5 December 2018, Eglin AFB FL
Jay Olejniczak, Donlon's A-Team deputy who was also awarded for his valor
during the 6 July 1964 battle, has recorded in his book To Be a Soldier that
Donlon, although wounded, moved from position to position under fire,
coordinating the defense, redistributing ammunition, encouraging his team,
and engaging the enemy by fire. During the battle, M. Sgt Gabriel Alamo,
Sgt. John Houston, and the Australian advisor attached to the team, Warrant
Officer Kevin Conway, were killed in action, and seven other team members
were wounded.¯ [Including Jay]
Jerry and Cathy White and the Eilands in front of Donlon Hall, 5
December 2018
The event's closing surprise especially for Donlon was the unveiling of a
bronze bust of him that was created by the same sculptor who created the
Horse Soldiers monument that is located at Ground Zero.
Afterwards they all
experienced just one more delight¯- Lunch together in the Group Dining
Facility [Formerly known by us old soldiers¯ as the Mess Hal]
Three "old soldiers" of 1961- Jerry White, Mike Eiland, Joe Stringham at the
honoring of Donlon, 5 December 2018
A-2 & Associated 'Mates Visit Malta
2/15/2019
Blesses have been busy keeping A-2 and
associated mates on the move and adding flag pins to their collective map
of world travels. Arriving via AirMalta, their most recent port of call
was the historic and strategically located island, Malta [and only they
know the when and the where of their forthcoming explorations]. They
landed the spirit of USMA and A-2 and while not with certainty, your
Scribe remains with the belief that they are perhaps be the first USMA
entourage to enjoy the sights, sounds and hospitality of this formerly
British isle in the eastern Med between Spain and Italy. [To any reader
please correct this belief, as may be appropriate ]
Malta by bus:
Sue & Paul DeVries, Sandy & Jack Zimmerman, Margie &
John McNearney ('59), Mary Frances & Hank Kenny, Bobbie &Jim Blesse, Lucy
Paone, and Gale & Bob McConnell.
Jim, Between 11 and 22 Oct 2018 the A-2 Adventure featuring a
rendezvous in Malta by our extended travel group with lodging in an 18th
century villa complex. For 12 days we toured Malta and its adjacent island
of Gozo and soaked up the history e.g., pre-historic [more than 5000
years] sites, Crusaders, Maltese Knights, and the WW II siege of Malta - -
plus we got to socialize with some notable Maltese.¯ The McConnell's
daughter and husband who have been living there on a business assignment
enabled our mates to feel as if they too were at least temporary
residents, soaking up the sights, sounds and unique culture that can trace
its origins to that prehistoric period when mainly
Stone Age hunters or farmers who had arrived from the Italian island
of
Sicily. So, the history along with other delights that the A-2 bunch
soaked up, prepares them for another adventure, likely to be sooner than
later.
Now, be sure to note the photo which is of a truly vintage 1930 blue bus
unique to Malta. Showing smiles awaiting their exciting spin around the
isle that was followed by special cocktail party in their honor following
a hard day of touring the spectacular land and sea attractions. Waiting to
board the bus are Sue & Paul DeVries, Sandy & Jack Zimmerman, Mary Frances & Hank Kenny,
Margie & John McNearney ('59), Bobbie & Jim Blesse, Lucy Paone, and Gale & Bob McConnell.
Mike Harpold [former G-2 file]
Has Published Another Book: The People We Wanted to Forget.
12/21/2018
It is a story of the boat
people'
and those who did
not help them, but most of
all, about those who did.
The story line built around
Mike Harpold's work while on
assignment at refugee camps
in Southeast Asia with the
purpose of putting together
a report for a congressional
hearing on the boat people.
While in the midst of his
task he was interrupted by
medical doctor alerting him
to a boat load of
thirty-four Vietnamese men,
women and children. They and
their disabled boat were
about to be towed out to sea
by the Thai Navy to be cast
adrift - and to certain
death. Mike had barely
minutes to come up with a
way to save them! From there
the story continues about
this selfless American, a
former West Pointer with a
large set of cojones, who
took chances and got things
done.
So far Mike has heard from a
number of our mates some of
whom have noted that the
book's narrative rests upon
USMA's ideals. From '59 Tom
Leo has written: This is an
excellent, well written,
very unusual book, in that
it gives a view of the life
and adventures of a young
man from high school in
rural Wisconsin, to the
Army, to being a cadet at
the United States Military
Academy at West Point, to
the Army. He then goes back
to college, then to the
Border Patrol - formerly the
INS. After that he ended up
with a stint training the
Vietnamese National Police.¯
By the way The People We
Wanted to Forget is
available on Amazon and Mike
& Elaine currently reside in
Ketchikan, AK and his first
book, a historical novel,
Jumping
the Line, came
out in November 2013.
Jim Nicholson Receives the Presidential Award
11/19/2018
Hiring for Heroes presented The
Presidential Award to
Jim Nicholson for a lifetime
of commitment and service to
veterans and military
families. A graduate of the
United States Military
Academy, Nicholson's
reputation of caring for
those in need spans decades
public and private service
dedicated to our country as
well as our service members
and their families.
The Lifetime Achievement
Award is in recognition of
Nicholson's sustained
support of our nation's
veterans and military
families. As U.S. Ambassador
to the Holy See, and
significantly, as secretary
of Veterans Affairs, both in
the George W. Bush
administration, Nicholson
has always been keenly aware
of the hardships and
sacrifices made by America's
service members and their
families and is committed to
helping them.
The Hiring Our Heroes
program, which he
co-founded, facilitates the
hiring of veterans and
military spouses by private
industry. The program has
helped more than 30,000
veterans and military
spouses find jobs.
"The best thing the private
sector can do for veterans
is to hire them," said
Nicholson. "There is nothing
more fulfilling than being
able to take care of
yourself and your family.
And, it's a great
opportunity for employers:
young veterans are all
volunteers who are
self-disciplined,
mission-focused, have an
excellent esprit de corps,
and offer many valuable
tangible and intangible
skills."
"I'm proud to be a part of
this effort," he noted.
Ken Siegenthaler Has Retired As A Full Professor At The Air Force Academy [Most
Likely The Last Of Our Mates Employed Full Time]
10/2/2018
It was Tuesday 8 May 2018, one of those bright blue sky days at the USAFA when our mate from K-2,
Ken Siegenthaler accepted the honors and gracious words of
his Air Force Academy leaders and colleagues for his almost thirty
years of dedicated service helping to educate and mold leaders for
the Air Force and for civil life afterwards. During Ken's flying
career he has logged over 6300 flying hours in C-124s and C-133s.
Assignments included Tachikawa , Japan, Dover, DE, and Air Force
Advisor to Oklahoma National Guard in Oklahoma City, OK. Ken became
jump qualified with the 173rd Airborne Brigade, and graduated from
Jungle Survival School as well. Then he took the trail to a PhD in
Laser Physics enroute to the rest of his career in Air Force Systems
Command Laboratories at Wright-Patterson and concluding as the Chief
Scientist and Commander/Director of the Frank J. Seiler Research
Laboratory USAFA.
His strength was in the classroom as well. In 2001, after a short
stint in civilian jobs, he returned to the Air Force Academy as an
assistant professor and subsequently rose to professor of
Astronautics. In 2010 he was one of the two classroom instructors to
be awarded the prestigious Heiser Award. Annually the First Class
cadets identify their top classroom instructors based upon their
contributions to the cadets'
personal and intellectual development
as well as their own demonstration of the Air Force core values of
integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do.
The cadets considered more than 160 instructors. The First Class
lauded Ken for placing his students first and imparting life lessons
that transcend the daunting and complex course material and added
that he consistently taught with a smile. The Heiser Award, named
after Professor Emeritus Dr. William H. Heiser, is the only award
selected by the graduating class. Dr. Heiser was elected as an
honorary fellow for the American Institute of Aeronautics and
Astronautics alongside former Secretary of the Air Force Dr. Sheila
Widnall.
Finally an anecdote about those 6300 flying hours: As Marty Sommercamp (John's widow) described meetings between
John and Ken: Periodically they would get together at the BOQ in
Saigon the night before or at Tan Son Nhut on the morning John would
be flying up country with needed wartime cargo. During one encounter
they both noticed and scratched their heads thoughtfully observing
that John's C-130 wartime cargo pallets held enough Campbell's
Asparagus Soup!! to feed an Army.¯
Ken, as you enter your next iteration of success and achievement,
take along the well wishes of your mates.
And many thanks to Marty Sommercamp and to Larry Noble for their contributions enabling this
retirement tribute to Ken.
Pete Gleichenhaus receives award from San Francisco's Jewish
Community Relations Council
9/26/2018
This past 27 February 2018 the San Francisco Bay Area Jewish
Community Relations Council honored
Pete Gleichenhaus. This native of the Bronx who remains a
Yankees stalwart, has taken to his adopted home three
thousand miles west and the natives of that seemingly distant land
have taken to Pete, honoring him with its
Distinguished Leadership Award. The award recognizes his many
years in leadership positions, giving back to the community that
Barbara and he have called home since 1985 and in those
years since retiring from the Presidio of San Francisco upon its BRAC closure in 1990. Proud of being born and bred in New York
City¯ and a consumate Yankee fan, Pete has proven that East can meet West¯.
In addition to the award's list, during thirty plus years in San
Francisco, he has served as the Chairman of Goodwill Industries, on
the board of the Bay Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, on
the Advisory Board at San Francisco State, and on the board of
Congregation B'nai Emunah.
Here are some of the Council's words
recognizing Pete and his accomplishments.
Here
is one of many congratulatory notes, commending Pete for his
achievements and complimenting Barbara and family for their support
of their Man¯ over these so many years.
And the JCRC has provided us this link to the video interview.
Recommend viewing and even passing on to others.
Pete explains his
motivation for continued service reflecting values with which we are
all familiar.
Our Class adds its CONGRATULATIONS!!
Another Recognition: The Army Historical Foundation's appreciation
for special generosity
9/26/2018
The August 2018 edition of the Foundation's
Call to Duty recognized a number of donors to its
Capital Campaign for the National Museum of the United States Army.
Among those supporters to whom it has expressed deep appreciation is
the Joulwan Family¯ of course being
Karen, George and wonderful daughters, three great sons in law and eight grandkids.¯
Mike Eggleston Releases "Operation Hannibal"
8/14/2018
Mike Eggleston's book entitled
Operation Hannibal is a history of the closing days
of World War II when a crisis was emerging for German
civilians trapped on the Eastern Front by the Red Army.
Many lived between the Soviet advance and the Wehrmacht
defense of Nazi Germany. They were fearful of Soviet
retribution for the millions of Russians that had been
murdered by the Nazis in the earlier years of the war.
Since all land routes had been cut off, an evacuation by
sea was the only way to provide escape for the civilians
back to Germany. Such an escape was fraught with many
dangers. Soviet submarines prowled the Baltic Sea where
the ships would sail, and the Red air force bombed the
ports and ships at sea. Most of the available ports were
under siege by the Red Army and civilians who tried to
reach the ports were often killed or died in the winter
weather. To save the civilians and some of the German
wounded soldiers, the German Navy developed a plan for
the evacuation called Operation Hannibal in early 1945.
This history tells the story of the flight from its
start in January 1945 until it concluded the day after
the end of the war in Europe. Mike is indebted to Ms.
Frances O'Connor Rogers and others who assisted in the writing and editing of this book.
Jim Nicholson Appointed to West Point
Board of Visitors
6/13/2018
James Jim¯ Nicholson has been appointed by President
Trump to the West Point Board of Visitors (BOV). The
mission of the BOV is to inquire and advise the
President as to the morale, discipline, academic
standing, and general state of excellence of USMA and
the Corps of Cadets. Nicholson, himself a
Distinguished Graduate of West Point and a retired
Army colonel, said, "Going to West Point and serving in
the Army changed my life. I am very grateful to play a
role in the development of our future generations of
military leaders by serving on the Board of Visitors of
my beloved Alma Mater.
The West Point Society of
Washington and Puget Sound Founders Day Banquet, 2018
4/26/2018
Photo: 1961- Founders Day
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, April 2018: Jeanne & Terry Kirkpatrick; NanSea &
Charlie Welsh; Sally & J.B. Taylor
Thanks to Terry
Kirkpatrick, we learn that the West Point Society of Washington and
Puget Sound hosted the Founders Day dinner at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. As
pictured, Jeanne & Terry Kirkpatrick; NanSea & Charlie Welsh; Sally &
J.B. Taylor represented Sixty-One. Terry described the Commandant's
presentation as great and well received. Brigadier General Steve Gilland is
Class of 1990. He is the 77th Commandant of Cadets, assuming command during a
ceremony in Jefferson Hall's Haig Room, 23 June 2017. Terry also reminded us
too, that our Class is getting closer to being among the oldest grads, noting
that this year the "oldest" graduate was Class of 1958.¯ The youngest graduate
is among the newest, the Class of 2017. Without being specific and adhering to
non attribution Terry noted She told us things the Com didn't.¯ Wrapping up the
festivities there was a Plebe Poop¯ competition. While the old Grads¯ were
excused Terry assured us that we could have done just as well as the younger
ones.¯
Joyce & Brian Schultz along with
Marty Ganderson and Paula Barrie, and Bob Chelberg joined about
a hundred grads, future cadets and parents for a hearty brunch and robust
conversation. was unable to attend and later
learned that she had missed this gala afternoon under sunny Atlantic coast skies
gently shining upon the greens of the host golf club. The brunch buffet was a
seemingly endless selection of meats, seafood, eggs, pastries and on and on. It
accompanied lively war stories filled with vivid recollections of past victories
over Navy and Tacs and Ps who gave us lasting guidance. Following was the guest
speaker the Dean, Brigadier General Cindy Jebb '82. BG Jebb spoke
conversationally explaining and describing current achievements and coming
projects at our alma mater. The Dean highlighted a number of advances in
curriculum, cadet activities, and new construction. Judging from some audience
reactions, the description of the recently opened Benjamin O. Davis Barracks
produced thoughtful sighs as many Old Grads listened and learned that there
is air conditioning and an elevator. BG Jebb was quick to point out that after
frequent daily and almost vertical stair climbs of about forty feet to reach the
barrack's ground floor, the cadets probably earned their elevator ticket.
Perhaps even those among our Class who had resided on the fourth floor of the
Lost Fifties might have at least a touch of empathy for these modern day Hudson
Highlanders. On one matter, all grads could agree, a sense of humility
reflecting that many of us Old Grads might be challenged to meet the
standards and expectations of today's USMA.
Heritage Hunt Founders Day
4/19/2018
A week later on 11 March 2018 at Heritage Hunt, Gainesville VA, Cy Shearer
coordinated the Founders Day arrangements for what has become a western enclave
of the D.C. West Point Society.
1961-Founders Day 11 March 2018:Row 1: Millie & Todd Counts; Chan
Eiland; Bill Mackie; Lucy Paone; Trish Buckner; Judy Kremer;
Nancy
Shearer; Suzanne & Jim Nicholson. Row 2: Gale & Bob McConnell; Mary Frances
Kenny; Michele Kopcsak; Sandy Dachaux and Jack Zimmerman. Row 3: Kaye & Bill
Williamson; Bunny & Chuck Armstrong; Dawn & Bob Glass; George Kopcsak; Barney &
Denise Legge. Row 4: Cy Shearer; Mike Eiland; Hank Kenny; [In defilade: Dick
Buckner; Bob Rosenkranz]; Rina & Ed Brown.
While a wide range of Classes were in
attendance, this photo shows that the number of our mates probably topped the
attendance rolls. [A round of applause and a drumroll for '61 Second to None].
Earlier on 7 February
4/19/2018
Many pictured here
also attended the 7 February Class luncheon at Ft Myer along with Joe Dahle,
Larry Noble, the Goodells, the Hardimans, the Hamptons, and the Kees in the
Campaign Room of Patton Hall, the former and now renamed Patton Hall, honoring
Gen George Patton's tenure as Fort Myer post commander. Our assembled mates and
their wives enjoyed the tasty and tasteful buffet and the accompanying learning
experience. Retired Colonel Robert L. Steinrauf, Ph.D. '82 explained some of
the Army's challenges and opportunities associated with recruiting and
retention. He is the Deputy G-1 for planning and resources and engaged our
mates with fact filled explanations of the goals and functions of what we long
ago referred to as OPO¯. He went on to describe for this visibly engaged
audience details associated with budgeting for the recruiting, training,
assigning and educating of today's Soldiers. Steinrauf went on about the manner
in which the Army is handling these formidable tasks as it forges ahead to
increase Soldier end strength in an increasingly threatening world environment.
One set of challenges for example involves the cohort of enlistment eligible
women and men. Its numbers are not increasing. In fact surveys show that
possibly barely 30% of the cohort currently would meet enlistment criteria that
includes measurable interest, physical and mental fitness, and records of
criminal behaviors. Recruiting from that number of eligible people has become
highly competitive. Other agents, Federal and private industry are seeking
people from this same qualified cohort. Therefore, the Army is constantly fine
tuning its recruiting and retention programs. A lively Q &A included remarks
from several Ladies asking about family support programs that can help attract
and retain soldiers. His responses were substantive leaving them and the
remainder of our mates encouraged that the Army is meeting the challenges.
[Side bar notes:
Remember when portions of OPO¯ resided in the Pentagon's basement and then
later in the Tempos adjacent Ft McNair before winding up in the Hoffman Building
on Eisenhower Ave] It was due to Paul Devries'
initiative that Robert
Steinrauf
agreed to speak with our Class gathering.]
James Scott "Warrior: A Hero's Story"
4/9/2018
A
pictorial saga of James Scott's military service, from enlisted soldier to West
Point graduate, Class of 1961, and decorated Vietnam Aviator, recipient of the
Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, and the Distinguished Flying
across. The book includes Scott's awards with photos of citations and
presentations, plus rare photos of shoulder patches, devices and medals. Scott
now battles another lethal and rare enemy, Inclusion Body Myositis. Proceeds
will go to research a cure for that disease. Available at Blurb.com.
A-2, Opposed by Hurricane Irma, takes its objective, Mini Reunion 11-14 September 2017
Back in 2016, the A-2 gang committed their 2017 Mini Reunion.
Madeline & Roger Middlesteadt quickly raising their hands as
the volunteer hosts were. The site would be on the Crystal Coast of
North Carolina at the towns of Beaufort, Morehead City, Pine Knoll
Shores, and Atlantic Beach. The planning progressed in perfect Field
Manual order. Then, real life intervened: Hurricane Irma! She roared,
poured and blew the detailed planning into the fog of warlike weather.
Moving decisively to Plan B they examined alternate dates. After due
consideration, the innovative planners rejected changing dates and
pursued their objective and in A-2's fashion for good fortune, the
gods of Oden relented and Irma moved her anger elsewhere. So, Alpha Deuce
pressed ahead to achieve a memorable Mini.
Thus fulfilling the age old saw that when to going gets
tough, the tough and spirited get going! And in that phalanx were
Sue & Paul DeVries, Bobbie & Jim Blesse, Georgann & Bob Cain, Gale &
Bob McConnell, Jack Zimmerman with
Sandy Dacheux, and
Betsy Alexander with son
Steve. Sandy and
Steve are now honorary members of A-2.
Irma's wrath did cause a downside to the festivities. The
Seltzes, Stringhams, Baldwins, Judy Carr and
Ellie Skillman were just unable to get through Irma's turmoil
despite
Oden's intervention. So they missed a big part of the treat of
being together. That was the tours of Fort Macon, the North Carolina
Aquarium, the historic homes area of Beaufort, and the Beaufort
Maritime Museum. But all's well that ends well and
Jim Blesse, in his role as key coordinator has already held
meetings to plan for 2018 following in the path set by the
DeVries in 2003.
Oden relented and Irma moved her anger elsewhere. So, Alpha Deuce
pressed ahead to achieve a memorable Mini.
Bill Tobin and Phil Ringdahl
8/18/2017
Phil and Judy lived in the DC area in the 80's and 90's during which they renewed
their USMA friendship; He's a Great guy.¯ Bill also wanted us to know that
Ron Hannon is now out of the hospital in Florida after 15
day stay. He is doing better and he is a fighter.¯ Bill was looking forward
to some golf on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia with his brother Bob. At the
end of August Bill will join son Bill and his wife in Scotland for ten days
of sightseeing. They are sailing their boat around the world and are in the
3rd year of seven year journey. Many will remember Bill's sister Margaret
[Margo] and will be pleased to know she is well and lives in Connecticut.
She had a long career as a school teacher [to includes DoDDS] and now
manages their brother's golf course. She has three wonderful kids and a
bundle of grand kids.
Photo: Chris & Bill Tobin and Judy & Phil
Ringdahl. They were together at Truro, Cape Cod for funeral service for
Phil's sister in law Polly, a childhood friend of Bill on the Cape. Not
pictured is Phil's brother Bob, Polly's husband
The photo explains that Judy & Phil were with the
Chris & Bill at Cape Cod for the funeral of Phil's
sister-in-law Polly who was also a friend of Bill's from their childhood
days.
Eggleston Releases "One Man's Traitor is Another's Patriot"
6/8/2017
Mike Eggleston releases
One Man's Traitor is Another's
Patriot.
This history tells the story of George Washington and
Robert Rogers and the conflict between the two. Robert Rogers is
considered by many to be the father of the U. S. Army Special Forces
and Rangers. Rogers'
Saint Francis Raid in 1759 against the Abenaki
tribe of Native Americans in what is now Canada was one of the major
events of that war. The raid is described in detail. This book
provides a large level of detail and reveals a vast number of
contemporary documents that are frequently quoted. During the War of
Independence, he and Washington clashed and Washington thought he
was a British spy. In the battles that followed the Declaration of
Independence Rogers activities were of continuing concern to
Washington. Robert Rogers was a puzzle to his contemporaries and to
those who study his life today. This book describes Rogers'
life and
motivations.
Sue & Paul DeVries, Bobbie & Jim Blesse, Georgann & Bob Cain, Gale &
Bob McConnell, Jack Zimmerman with Sandy Dacheux Recalling
Founders Day, 2017: A couple of reports and photos
5/16/2017
At
the Treasure Coast West Point Society it was Vicki & Bob Chelberg and Joyce & Brian Schultz who helped
to represent our Class as they raised their glasses to the Corps¯ along
with Rich Sands '85, son of our mate Phil Sands [E-2]
who resides near Ft Myers, FL And, for all of the grads and guests who
gathered for this luncheon gala amid the warm breezes and surrounding
palms, it was USMA's Oldest Living Graduate, LTG William Ely Class of
1933 whose the presence and insightful remarks who made the day extra
special. The Youngest Grad, Lawrence Paustain Class of 2008 added to
LTG's Ely's reflections on leadership through his anecdotal recounting
of his own practical experiences. They both credited that USMA shaped
their life's experiences especially with regard to leadership. The
audience listened carefully to the speakers'
points that the enduring
essential of leadership is take care of your troops.¯
Photo Left:
Vicki & Bob Chelberg, Joyce & Brian Schultz
While
Paustain earned his time in the spot light, the glowing memory will be
that of LTG Ely. At 105 years [29 Dec 1911], this past deputy commander
of the Army Materiel Command currently resides in Delray, FL and has
been a regular at local Founders Days for a number of years. As he
spoke, he reminded all of his love and respect for USMA as well as
USMA's continuing importance to the nation through its exemplification
of Army culture and values. He concluded with a rhetorical question why
have I lived so long¯? His audience seemed to silently answer because
we need your presence to remind us of our own past in order to look to
the future¯. Both speakers in his own way paid attention to principles
of serving people and of honoring West Point which in turn have served
them¯. An important footnote: LTG Ely expects to attend the 2017 Alumni
Parade and will lay the wreath at the statue of Sylvanus Thayer, Class
of 1808.
Photo Right: Rich Sands 85 [Son of Phil, E-2] Bob Chelberg,
Brian Schultz
Seltzes, Stringhams, Baldwins, Judy Carr and
Ellie Skillman
Seltzes, Stringhams, Baldwins, Judy Carr and
Ellie Skillman
Seltzes, Stringhams, Baldwins, Judy Carr and
Ellie Skillman Cy Shearer has
let us know of a that evening which featured their Oldest Grad¯ from
1958 and the youngest , Class of 2006. Cy went on to describe for us
that:
We had a marvelous Founders Day celebration on March 17th at Heritage
Hunt Club House in Gainesville, VA. In attendance representing '61 along
with Nancy & Cy were Bunny & Chuck Armstrong,
Trish & Dick Buckner with their guests [Dick's brother] Bob '57
and Barbara Watson, Millie & Todd Counts, Sue & Paul DeVries,
Chan & Mike Eiland, Dawn & Bob Glass, Sharon & Gene Goodell, Jan & Pat
Hillier, Michele & George Kopcsak, Judy Kremer, Denise & Barney Legge,
Bill the Flying Finn¯ Mackie, Gale & Bob McConnell, Bob Rosenkranz,
Mary Jane & John Solomon, Kaye & Bill Williamson, and
Jack Zimmerman.
Total attendance was 129, so it was obvious
that Second to None¯ dominated the scene. The
West Point Alumni Glee Club provided excellent entertainment with
singing and skits. The oldest and youngest speakers were Wally Ward '58
(older than the '56 grads in attendance), and MAJ Aaron Cross '06. Can
you image being both a field grade officer AND the youngest grad? It's
what happens when you come to an event at an over 55¯ community. The
social hour ended with
the singing of Benny Havens¯. (Why
don't we have a song about the 202 Club?¯) Festivities
closed with the Alma Mater. Bob Glass, Dave Mundt
'62, and Cy
were responsible for the planning and execution.¯ And, another
night to remember!!
Social events for 61:
5/16/2017
On the morning of 2 April many of
our mates assembled for the bountiful Fort Belvoir Sunday Brunch. Under
perfect skies and looking across the placid Potomac they dined upon the
delights ranging from steel cut Irish oatmeal to eggs Benedict to hearty
slices of roast beef au jus and sipped brut champagne. The beneficiaries
of the festive feast were Bobbi & Jim Blesse, Rina & Ed Brown,
Emmy Brown, Elease & Ed Bruner, Sue & Paul DeVries, Chan Eiland, Marty
Ganderson and Paula Barrie, Betty & Bob Hampton, Denise & Barney Legge,
Okja & Bill Mackie, Lucy Paone, Pat Prather, Bob Rosenkranz, Mary Jane &
John Solomon, and Jack Zimmerman and Sandy Dacheux.
...and coming soon...
8 June 2017, Thursday -- Luncheon, Campaign Room, Fort Myer
Officers Club
Mike Eggleston Publishes New Book About Vietnam
1/26/2017
On the
fiftieth anniversary of the battles, Mike Eggleston's new book has been published and is available for immediate delivery from book sellers.
The author is indebted to members of the 173rd Airborne Brigade who included their recollections. Two of these soldiers received the Distinguished Service Cross for their valor.
The book summary: Thousands of books and articles have been written about the war in Vietnam. This book tells the story of a series of key battles in Vietnam and how they were influenced
by events before them and how they affected the war effort. These decisive battles were called the "Border Battles" in Vietnam and the principal battle occurred at Dak To. These present
a story of great valor. This history differs from others that deal with the Vietnam war since tells in detail these decisive battles not documented before in the words of those who served there.
The book relies upon records as well as memoirs of Vietnam veterans of Dak To many of which have not been previously published. Other important sources include the memoirs, letters and books written
by the key leaders during this period such as Haig, Kissinger, Nixon, Westmoreland, and General Vo Nguyen Giap, the North Vietnamese commander.
Seltzes, Stringhams, Baldwins, Judy Carr and
Seltzes, Stringhams, Baldwins, Judy Carr andMore adventures of
the A-2 Travel Troupe: This time it's Ireland - Part 2
10/18/2016
Ellie Skillman
Seltzes, Stringhams, Baldwins, Judy Carr and
Seltzes, Stringhams, Baldwins, Judy Carr andwith son Steve.with
Sandy Dacheuxwith
Sandy Dacheux
Photo Right: Dinner at our
hotel, the St. Stephen's Green Hibernia Club, Dublin; from left:
Sue, Bobbie, Gale, Bob, Jim, John, Hank, Paul, Jack, Mary
Frances, and Marge
Oden relented and Irma moved her anger elsewhere. So, Alpha Deuce
pressed ahead to achieve a memorable Mini.
Hank Kenny, the A-2 travel troupe's
designated
reporter tells us of another wonderful trip! It was an eight-day
adventure in Ireland. This time the frequent journey bunch
included Bobbie & Jim Blesse, Sue & Paul DeVries,
, Gale & Bob McConnell, Sandy Dacheux
and Jack Zimmerman, reinforced by Class of
'59's Marge & John McNerneyand of course
Mary Frances & Hank.
The travel begins
They met up with this
familiar looking fellow in the pub
We toured the Emerald Isle from Dublin and
Galway. Daytime activities in Dublin included visits to St.
Patrick's cathedral, Trinity College, the Book of Kells, (a
1200-year old illuminated manuscript of the gospels), the
Guinness brewery, and Kilmainham Gaol (prison), where Irish
rebels were executed a hundred years ago.
Evenings saw the
group at nearby pubs and restaurants, enlivened by both Guinness
beer and delightful Irish music and dancing.
A special treat
We went north from Dublin to Bru na Boinne, the site of the
magnificent New Grange tombs and the Hills of Tara. The tombs,
constructed entirely of stone, are 5,500 years old, and like
Egypt's pyramids that were constructed later, have passageways
where, during the winter solstice, the sun shines from the great
exterior wall into the burial chamber at the center of the
edifice. Our adventurers then strode up the windswept Hills of
Tara, from which the High Kings of Ireland are believed to have
ruled in ancient times.
More adventures of
the A-2 Travel Troupe: This time it's Ireland - Part 1
10/18/2016
The most Irish part of Ireland¯
Front: Mary
Frances, Gale, Bobbie, and Jim; Rear: Hank, Bob, Sandy, Jack,
Paul, and Sue.
We then traveled west to Galway, from where everyone toured
the Cliffs of Moher on the Atlantic, and visited the Aran
Islands, where people speak Gaelic and live in the traditional
Celtic homes. A race then ensued, as the group hopped on
different horse-drawn carts for a tour of the island.
Jack,
Sandy, Mary Frances & Hank were in one cart and Sue & Paul,
Bobbie & Jim in another, then Gale & Bob in a third. Total
weight favored the first horse-drawn cart, but it appeared to be
a tie at the finish. In any case, it was an up-front view of
life in the old days. The next day saw us touring the Connemara
peninsula, visiting bogs from which farmers draw peat (turf) for
fuel. We also paid a visit to the famous Kylemore Abbey with its
Victorian walled garden.
A pleasant surprise
Ken,
Jim, Bob. Hank, and Jack enjoying Galway, while the ladies are
shopping
Now back in Galway we guys were standing outside a store
where the ladies were shopping when up walked none other than
Rachel & Ken Meisner. What a surprise! They
were touring Ireland in conjunction with a visit to their son.
Of course, Rachel & Ken joined us for a grand dinner that
evening. The following day we said our farewells to each other
and to Ireland. However, Mary Frances and I stayed on to visit
friends and relatives in County Clare. As an understatement, all
in all, it was another great trip for our adventuresome troupe
China Welcomes
Members of the Class of 1961
10/18/2016
China: Their adventures continue
China tour 14-25 Sep 2016- With a backdrop
of the Great Wall of China Kathy White (Jerry unable to make the
trip) Coralinn & Mick Maus, Karen Hansell, Kaye Williamson, Bill
Williamson, Charlie Hansell
Karen & Charlie Hansell, Coralinn & Mike Maus, Kaye &
Bill Williamson and Kathy White with
her sister, Virginia signed up for the trip section on a
two-week Uniworld Tour through China, 14-25 September 2016. Here
is their after action report:
We were all surprised at the modernization of infrastructure
as well as the antiquities that we visited. We started in
Shanghai and throughout we were amazed at the modern buildings
and the friendliness of the Chinese people. Shanghai is where
the modern interface with the western world began. It was the
outcome of the arrival of the British in the late 1800's. By the
way, we may remember from our days with our social science Ps
that until 1842 Shanghai's location made it merely a small
fishing village. Then came the first Opium War. The British
intervened and declared Shanghai a treaty port.
That opened the
city to foreign involvement. Soon after, the French and the U.S.
arrived.
China tour 14-25 Sep 2016- Coralinn & Mick
Maus reprise their photo-op in Moscow's Red Square while on
their 2012 Russian River Cruise.
This time, China's Great Wall.
Next time????
In keeping with their various objectives they divided
Shanghai into autonomous concessions that they administered
concurrently yet independently of all Chinese law. Each colonial
presence imparted a bit of its own culture, architecture, and
society. Thus some of the British and French buildings that have
survived are preserved and are in use to this day. Our next stop
was an upriver three-day cruise on the Yangtze River that
included observation of and passage through the huge and very
impressive Three Gorges Dam. The river boat was very comfortable
and the food and drink were excellent.
We disembarked in Chungking and then flew on to Xi'an. It was
east of there that farmers digging a water well discovered the
Terracotta Army on 29 March 1974. This massive army of statues
is almost beyond description, is overwhelming and the
archeological care being taken is astonishing. Our next and
final stop was Beijing. We spent three days visiting the
national monuments in and around Beijing: the Great Wall,
Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven.
Evening dinners followed by very impressive stage shows occurred
on two of the nights. A great time was had by all and as always,
our time together will remain memorable.
Our 55th Reunion... 10/4/2016
Soon after our 50th our
Class leaders had the vision.
With careful thought they stepped off smartly.
They organized, they issued the Ć‚Ā« Commander's Intent and
Guidance Ć‚Ā»
Then the stalwart team of Bob Cairns, Joe Fishburne,
Gary Hyde, Phil Mallory, Burke Mucho, and Gene
Witherspoon moved out to the tasks of overall planning
and execution.
And an intensively detailed quest it was
to firm up the answers to the Reunion questions of who,
where, when, and how
[There was no what or why'... They were determined in 1961.]
The challenges were familiar yet no less complex.
And now, as we look back on those picture perfect days in May
2016
we know that the answers turned out to be innovative, on target,
on time.
A Stirring And
Memorable Gathering Of Eagles -- Our 'Mates 10/4/2016
The Team insured silk
like smoothness
for transportation, all hospitality matters
especially the array of rooms for socializing, the myriad tours,
and our solemn Cadet Chapel service that preserves the memories
of our departed mates. Spouses, dear friends and then
volunteers raised their hands and stepped forward to support the
Team. Bob Hampton, Ed Brown, and Trish Buckner
signed on to pursue the specific tasks of creating the Memorial
Room, publicity and communications, and artful name tags
respectivelyand Lucy Paone coordinated with
our widows and then so many of our unnamed mates teamed in
along the way with on site coordination, bus movement and sundry
admin tasks and on and on and on...
Our 55th was a total Team
labor of loyalty and dedication to our Class.
A Testimony To '61
Second to None!
10/4/2016
During the almost five
years of constant work, this Team appeared much like the ducks
smoothly floating upon the mirror like surface of a crystal
pond.
They appeared as if they were moving forwarded on cruise control.
What we didn't see was, like the ducks,
their fierce movements
beneath the water's surface.
That was their energy producing our reunion.'
Ć‚Ā« Never have so few enabled so many to gain so much pleasure Ć‚Ā»
as there was at this
our Fifty Fifth observance of our graduation. Well done and
thank you are simple phrases
that affirm inadequately the feelings of each and every person
who mustered up to renew ties and bonds of so many years.
At
this point, it may be fitting to note those who were unable to
be present at this formation. Theirs were expressions of deep
regret and, from some, of recognition and acceptance that the
passing years are having their affects.
Further testimony favoring the Team's accomplishments are a
few unsolicited compliments and praise:
....indeed a fun-filled reunion and I wish we could have visited
even longer with those who were able to join us.
....we finally arrived home with a mixture of happy thoughts but
with some sadness over those who couldn't join us.
....I for one am still in a state of reunion recovery that
defies description.
....memorial room the committee set up was truly impressive...
great job putting that together... please do it again for our
60th and any time in between.
....top of the line accommodations, chow, adult liquid
refreshments that made being together easier, refreshing, and
just plain fun!!
Our 55th Reunion and G-1 welcomes Company
and Class son Matt Deuel DeRosier and wife Pam. Matt's father
Bill Deuel was killed in Vietnam, 1996. Pictured are Howie
Roberts, Dan Halpin, Matt DeRosier, Terry Kirkpatrick, Bill
Mackie
We remembered our Company mate Bill Duel who
was killed in Vietnam 30 September 1966, leaving Matt and his
widowed mother behind. This reunion, fifty years later becomes
special for Bill's son, Matt Deuel DeRosier and his wife Pam.
They joined us to spend time being with his father's classmates.
They were especially taken by the memorial room displays along
with being part of our class activities to include the visit to
Constitution Island. That visit also became a professional
interest for Matt who is a Federal wildlife officer of the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service in Lewistown, MT. [Perhaps
fulfilling an interest he may have learned from his grandfather.
Bill's father and Matt's grandfather was Thorne Deuel, Class of
1912.] Pam and Matt were happily overwhelmed by the way the
Class of 61 reached out to them with comments about Billy Deuel
and stories from our shared days together at West Point.
A Footnote
10/4/2016
Referencing the same
dictionary that got us through plebe English, the definition of
reunion¯ is¯ the gathering of former school mates or other
organizations for the purpose of continuing or reestablishing
personal ties that began many years earlier.¯
In
retrospect may I add/modify that definition? If so, it's unlike
the other definitions that we spec'd¯ almost sixty years agoMy
new definition will be a gathering of life long Classmates
who transcend just being only friends. We are in some cases
blood relatives, in some instances in-laws through marriages,
and parents, grand parents and in the coming years, great grand
parents of graduates and who have remained connected in an
abundance of ways and now once again have assembled for Reunion
Number Fifty Five!"
Andersons to Endow Men's Basketball & Women's Rugby Coaching Positions
8/4/2016
Army
West Point Athletics has received another extraordinary commitment
from Lee and Penny Anderson that will enhance the
cadet-athlete experience in multiple sports and further advance the
mission of the Academy. The Anderson's contribution will catapult a
transformation of the Arvin Annex that will house a new
state-of-the-art weight room and locker room facilities for multiple
athletic and club programs. In addition to this facility upgrade,
the Andersons will endow the head men's basketball and women's rugby
coaching positions.
The Andersons continue to be a major
supporter of the Academy and our cadets,¯ Director of Athletics Boo
Corrigan said. The loyalty Lee and Penny have shown towards West
Point is unparalleled and we are certainly grateful for their
continued generosity to our athletic programs.¯We are incredibly
appreciative of the support that Lee Anderson and his family has
given our men's basketball program,¯ new men's basketball head coach
Jimmy Allen said. His support helps our cadet-athletes immeasurably
and we are so proud that he is a part the basketball family at Army
West Point.¯
Full Story Ć‚Ā»
Summer at Fort Campbell
1959 8/3/2016
Classmates:
Some nostalgia from Jim Oaks that I thought would interest you. Your
challenge is to identify everyone!
Regards,
Ed
A Few Reminders
5/18/2016
Arlington National Cemetery Burials
On
1 April 2016 a number of our mates attended the burial of
Dennis Rooney at Arlington. In a few weeks there will be
two more burials, John Lawton and
Butch
Robertson. John's will be buried 14 June [appropriately
Flag day and the 241st
our Army's birthday]. There will be a
service in the Old Post Chapel, Ft Myer at 8:45 AM. Following John's
interment, his family will host a reception at the Officers Club.
Featured will be tales of Nasty Jack¯ and bourbon.
Then on Tuesday, 21 June, Butch will be interred following a
service in the Old Post Chapel, Ft Myer at 12:30 PM. His family also
will host a reception at the Officers Club when our 'mates, friends
and family will have time to reminisce about Butch and his
contributions.
Earlier in April Bob Protzman was laid to rest
in Fort Worth. We recall that Loree predeceased him in 1985; however
surviving are daughter Paige and son Scott along with grand children
Will, Cameron, and Cole. We also recall Bob's diligence and pursuit
in his careers. First as an Air Defender but also starting then to
study for eventual completion of medical school paying my own
tuition and fees. There was no pay and no housing allowance, but
time in grade accrued and medical/PX benefits were granted.
John Eielson and I graduated in 1968, and the military
celebrated our graduations by instituting a funded program for
medical students the next year¯ Then it was off
to ten years
as a Medical Corps doctor. Bob retired in 1982 accompanied by a bit
of coincidence and humor: I got a letter congratulating me on
being selected for the War College.¯ Perhaps this photo at our
40th illustrates Bob's easy going ways and sense of humor.
Photo: That's Pete Boylan in the more
traditional western hat and Gene Witherspoon in the
background sporting our Class headgear
Some footnote news
Tia & Jim McGinnis are keeping busy and
productive in Boca Raton. With a number of our mates residing along
Florida's Atlantic coast they remain in close touch with many. They
are especially appreciative of the continuing outpouring of concern
that has followed the tragic death of their son in 2015.
Vicki & Bob Chelberg are equally busy and productive with
Bob handling some of the lead efforts in promoting the Wounded
Warrior program in Florida's Palm Coast. Joyce & Brian
Schultz have returned to New Jersey after a warm and cozy¯
winter at Jupiter Beach, Fl. Also one more bit of Florida news:
Joyce & Lou Berra have a new address: 11092
Millsite Lane; Dowling Park, FL 32064 Email:
berra@windstream.net.
Charles Patrick Burns
27 July 1938 - 25 February 2016
4/13/2016
We
want to remember that Charles Burns passed on 25
February in San Francisco, CA, after a courageous battle with
leukemia. Many have been in touch with Vera who survives Charles
along with children Amy, Timothy and his wife Laura, Patrick and
his wife Colleen, Jenny and her husband John, Kathleen and her
husband Christopher; and grand children, Julia, Jackson, Connor,
Liam, Amanda, Charlotte, and Josephine.
Photo: Vera & Charles
Burns in their San Francisco home, filled with Vera's warmth and
art and Charles' charm and wit
Charles first descended
upon San Francisco in 1972 enroute to his third Southeast Asia
tour [AKA: Vietnam]. Recall that the Paris Peace Accords cease
fire agreement took effect at the end of January 1973. So, instead
of deployment, the Army adjusted Charles’ PCS orders and he
decided that San Francisco looked pretty good after growing up in
New York. With “four kids in tow” he went on to marry Vera, take
on several follow on assignments and eventually retirement from
Sixth Army in 1987, law school and then a fruitful “second career”
as a practicing attorney which helped them graduate his four
children from Berkeley and their daughter Kathleen from Yale.
[Charles, once noted that Vera, before their marriage, had seen
the movie Sound of Music, and was certain that raising
five children would be a snap... and they made that happen. Yet,
in that respect, Charles’, family also would want to remind us
that his brother, of the New York Fire Department perished in the
World Trade Center.]
Barbara & Pete
Gleichenhaus let us know that “on 5 March family, friends
and a number of our ‘mates attended the Catholic vigil and mass at
St. Cecilia's down the street from where the Burns' and we live,
the local parish. Charles was remembered with high praise and
reverence by the Chaplain who said, several times, "this was a
good man." After the service, was the burial at Holy Cross
Catholic Cemetery nearby in Colma, a few miles south of San
Francisco, with military honors. Soldiers from the California Army
National Guard fired a salute, folded the colors, and a bugler
sounded taps. Afterwards, the family hosted a luncheon. All in
all, while a sad time, it was respectful and quiet, kind of like
Charles, who was Charlie when we first met him. His kids organized
and ran the day's events, and did so in a manner in which their
Dad would have been pleased.”
The family has informed us
that the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is accepting donations in
memory of Charles. The address is Donor Services, PO Box 4072,
Pittsfield, MA 01202 or online at
www.lls.org.
James Nicholson to Receive the Saint Pio Award
4/4/2016
The
Saint Pio Award has been established to recognize the selfless and
outstanding contribution to the Catholic Church of those individuals
who have strongly committed to support the Saint Pio Foundation and its
vision. Guests of honor and Saint Pio Award winners will be the
acclaimed Actor Gary Sinise and Hon. Jim Nicholson,
former Secretary for Veteran Affairs and former US Ambassador to the
Holy See. Part of the proceeds of this event will be allocated to
support the VA Maryland Healthcare System’s Homeless Program in
Baltimore.
Ron Beckett’s posthumous memoir of “our” war
3/18/2016
As
our 55th fast approaches, we also observe a series of “fifty years
since” events regarding the war in Vietnam. So the timing of the
reminders from Mike Eggleston
and Jim Blesse, among
many of our’mates are on target: Per Jim - “ There is GREAT news that
Ron Beckett's book,
now titled Jack of All Trades, has been published by Stackpole
Books, Harrisburg, PA. Make sure you seek out a copy to purchase at
your favorite book source. You don't want to miss it and another taste
of Ron's knowledge and sense of humor.”
Jack of All
Trades: An American Advisor’s War in Vietnam 1969-1970 [Moments Worth Preserving From the Other War in Vietnam]
American screenwriter, Steven Shagan, once remarked to a
disappointed colleague, “Be glad you had the moment”.
War, like life, is made up of moments, some singular and some strung
together into seemingly endless hours and days. Those who have
experienced war know all too well those moments - moments of sorrow,
camaraderie, exhilaration, fear, violence, compassion, sacrifice and
brutality. We know them because they come unexpectedly, punctuating the
stifling monotony and boredom that characterize the primary war
experience. Vietnam was no exception. Most of the books about the
Vietnam War published in recent years have dealt with such moments, and
most have consequently focused on the combat experience.
Ron’s book is different. He informs us of the advisory experience,
an experience unique unto itself. Ron did not recount battles or
firefights, and he did not offer in-depth analysis of strategy or
tactics. No political messages…very few moral judgments. Instead he
leaves behind and for us his collection of true, and typical of the Ron
we knew, often humorous anecdotes growing from his advisory team’s
experience. More specifically, it is the story of a seven-man American
District Advisor Team in Dinh Quan District, Long Khanh Province, in
the Republic of Vietnam in 1969-1970.
There was more than one war going on in Vietnam. The one we most
likely know was from 1965 with the introduction first of US ground
forces followed by air and naval forces and until 1973 with the
withdrawal of all of those US combat forces. Before and during that
period was the advisory campaign. It was conducted by the US military
beginning with the establishment of the MAAG-V (Military Advisory and
Assistance Group-Vietnam) in the late 50's coincident with the
departure of the French and continuing into the early 60's with
President John F. Kennedy’s expansion of the American advisory effort.
This advisory effort almost exclusively focused on the ARVN (Army of
the Republic of Vietnam) combat units. In 1964, with the establishment
of MACV (Military Assistance Command Vietnam), American strategists
began to realize that Mao Tze Tung’s dictum that the people must
support an insurgency in order for it to be effective was far more than
the ravings of a Chinese despot. And so it was that American attention
turned to strengthening, albeit slowly, the regional and administrative
organizations of South Vietnam.
Until mid 1965, the Viet Cong (Vietnamese Communists) had waged war
in the provinces and districts with limited success. It appeared that
the government in Hanoi had decided it was time to move the campaign in
South Vietnam into phase Three of guerrilla warfare to decisively
defeat the ARVN and unify Vietnam. In response to the movement of large
PAVN (People’s Army of Vietnam), forces into South Vietnam, President
Lyndon B. Johnson committed US ground forces supported by naval and air
forces to assist the ARVN. Unfortunately, the commitment of US
conventional forces detracted from the advisory effort as US commanders
believed their North Vietnamese enemy was inferior in every respect to
US forces which could decisively defeat their North Vietnamese enemy on
the battlefield. However, as the war raged on and US strategists sought
a solution to winning the war, it became more and more apparent that
the answer instead was to shore up the South Vietnamese government and
all its institutions in Saigon and in its provinces and districts.
This support was formalized in 1967 with the creation of an
organization named CORDS (Civilian Office Revolutionary Development
Support). To unify this effort, President Johnson appointed Mr. Robert
Komer as DEPCORDS (Deputy for Civilian Office of Revolutionary
Development Support) to the COMUSMACV (Commander United States Military
Assistance Command) General William Westmoreland. To better coordinate
this, each of South Vietnam’s four military regions had a DEPCORDS
assigned to the senior US commander in the region. CORDS then was
responsible for the overall coordination of the advisory effort in the
provinces and districts to include the employment of local militia
forces call RF/PF (Regional Forces/Popular Forces). As such all
district and provincial advisory teams were subordinate to CORDS.
Whether it realized it or not, the US had embarked on a massive
campaign of “Nation Building”.
It
was into this situation that the Class of 1961’s Major Ronald L.
Beckett returned to Vietnam, assigned as the DSA (District Senior
Advisor) of Dinh Quan District Long Khanh Province, III Corps Tactical
Zone. Ron had deployed earlier as well in 1965 with the US Army’s 1st
Infantry Division “The Big Red One” as part of President Johnson’s
response to the North Vietnamese incursion. He had seen combat as a
company commander and understood the US conventional war tactics of
“Search and Destroy”. But, now he was participating in a different kind
of war, the war to win “the hearts and minds” of the South Vietnamese
people. In Jack of All Trades, he described the day to day
lives of American advisors in a way about which very few Americans,
including those who served in US units knew very little. Jack of
All Trades , while humorous at times, stands as a factual story of
one of the many US advisory teams scattered throughout the provinces
and districts of the Republic of South Vietnam.
Jack of All Trades is a book about events and moments worth
preserving, a book about the American War in Vietnam. It is not,
however, a book about war in the traditional sense. Neither is it a
book about heroism, though it has heroes, nor a book of protest, though
it is sometimes critical. This is simply a book about people, places
and events that marked the author’s tour of duty in Vietnam. It is a
book bound by the thread of human experiences - a book which will move
the serious reader to laughter and resurrect emotions long thought
forgotten about the “other war” in Vietnam.
Walter G. “Butch”
Robertson 1938-2016
2/22/2016
Photo:
20 November 2015 - H-1 reunion. Todd Counts and Mike Eiland
Flanked Butch and had one of those unforgettable get togethers,
soon after Barbara and he pulled up stakes in Florida to
re-retire in Virginia to be closer to family.
On 16 Feb 2016 in Leesburg, VA
Butch Robertson passed on. Surviving Butch are Barbara
and children, daughter, April; son, David Pierce and his son
Caleb; son, Steven Pierce and his spouse Irene; grandchildren,
Stephanie Angele and her husband Ethan, Marcel Pierce and his
wife Heather, Mary Reuter and her husband Louis, John Pierce,
Paul Pierce, Mark Pierce, and Luke Piece; and great
grandchildren, Brigitte Angele, Liliana Angele, Derek Angele,
Kateri Angele, Gerard Pierce, Killian Pierce, and Ignatius
Reuter.
Conversations with other of our ‘mates
inform us that Butch had been having cardiac issues for the past
ten years or so yet never lost his spirit especially with regard
to looking out for his family. Moving to Virginia was a part of
that concern. More about Butch is found in his own words that
you can read in full in our Class Book.
I wasn't born a soldier, but
almost…My chosen path led me to the Plain on that afternoon I
took the Oath. As for many of us, that was a defining moment
which gave meaning to everything I ever did thereafter in my
life... We can all recall those sage words from Beast Barracks:
"All that I am and all that I ever hope to be I owe to my Beast
Barracks Squad Leader."... It all began with the Oath, taken on
the Plain with my dear classmates.
A memorial service for Butch will be at
2 PM, 25 February 2016, at the Great Oak Clubhouse at Ashby
Ponds, 44755 Audubon Square, Ashburn, VA 20147. Burial at
Arlington National Cemetery will be at a later date.
You may be in touch with Barbara at
21144 Cardinal Pond Terrace, #WC402, Ashburn, VA 20147. In lieu
of flowers, the family asks that donations in Butch’s memory be
made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS
66675.
Well done, Butch. Be thou at
peace.
Michael Eggleston
New Book 5th Marine Regiment in WWI
2/22/2016
The
story of the 5th Marine Regiment in World War I is now
available, it will be published in March. More than 8,000 men
served in the Fifth Marine Regiment of the U.S. Army’s Second
Infantry Division during World War I and the occupation of
Germany. Marine units were among the first to arrive in war-torn
Europe in 1917, and sustained greater casualties than other
American units. This book tells the human story of the "Devil
Dogs" in World War I and the years following through the
recollections of veterans recorded over the past century. The
influenza epidemic that raged during the war is discussed. An
annotated roster of the regiment lists each Marine, with service
details provided where known.
Assembly 1961.....Just in case you are you
snowed in...
1/29/2016
Hank Larsen is the Scribe for the
Class of 1959. He and his wife Brenda on a recent Caribbean cruise with
Sheryl & Bud Fritz
sent us an update on
our ‘mate.
From
Hank:
I first met Bud Fritz when he was a Battalion Commander
in the Field Artillery Training Center at Fort Sill. We had may things
in common. USMA grads, assigned to the same until, neighbors on post and
so forth. But perhaps the fact that we were and still are avid Red Sox
fans kept our friendship strong. Also, Bud’s wife, Sheryl
and my wife, Brenda, are quilters. Our latest adventure
together was a cruise in the Caribbean. Here’s a snapshot.
October 2015 Dan Halpin visits West Point and describes new construction 1/5/2016
Photo: October 2015 Dan Halpin G-1 ’61 at
USMA barracks construction site with Cadet David Koerper, G-1 '16
Anytime
is a good time to hear about our ‘mates. That “good time” is especially
so when they are updating us on the comings and goings at out alma
mater. In this case, Dan Halpin is our man on the scene. You’ll read
that he was in the AO following the annual meeting of the American
Society of Civil Engineers. Recall that Dan, over the years has been
honored by this and a number of other professional engineer associations
and societies. His observations give us his account of some of the
infrastructure developments that will greet us at our 55th. So, don’t be
shocked and surprised or maybe not recognize immediately your
surroundings come May 2016. Now, here’s Dan’s report, a preview of
“coming attractions.”
I was on the road from 10-18 October 2015... attended the annual
meeting of ASCE in NYC on Time Square at the Marriott Marquis. I drove
into the hotel from Westchester County...only mad dogs, Englishmen, and
Hillbillies from KY would attempt that. On Tuesday morning, 13 Oct,
after a breakfast event at ASCE, I drove us to USMA to visit the new
construction of a 6 story cadet barracks being built above South Area
and just below the Cadet Chapel as well as renovations of Bartlett Hall
- the Science Building on Thayer Road. This work has included blasting
330,000 cu. yards of granite out of the side of the hill to make space
for the footprint of the building. Walsh Group out of Chicago is doing
the work. During my time at Purdue I had a lot contact with Dan Walsh
who has become a personal friend as well. While touring the Cadet
barracks site (It hangs on the hill) a group of cadets were crossing a
scaffold bridge and I was introduced as a grad to this civil engineer
class. I mentioned that I was a G-1 file and asked if there were any G-1
cadets in this group. 2 or 3 hands went up. Cheers all around... Later I
was returning with my host from Walsh to the trailer area along Thayer
Road when two cadets asked if I was the gentleman from G-1 who was just
visiting the barracks site. Yes, of course... they were the G-1 cadets
who had been in the class group.
David Koerper, G-1 firstie, asked if he could make a picture with
me... sure... The attached picture is the result... Turns out that David
is the 1st Regimental S 3 - cadet captain and is from Lexington, KY. So
the picture is a nice memory of the visit David in BDU - and I in the
Walsh Group on site combat uniform complete with Safety Glasses.
I hope to stop by the site in May '16 again... should have most of
the interior finish work completed by then... by the way the barracks
building is 6 stories... maybe 3 to 3.5 acres of space... my rough
estimate.
E-2 Mini Reunion
12/23/2015
The
first ’58-’61 mini E-2 reunion 10 Jun 2015: Chuck Toftoy '58 and his
favorite "weenie” and our author Mike Eggleston
Re
reading notes for June 2015, the mini E-2 reunion with Chuck Toftoy
’58, Mike Eggleston and Scribe took place as planned,
10 June. The watering hole was the Tyson’s Corner Clyde’s
Restaurant, one of several in the DC-northern Virginia region and
the scene of this photo.
A delayed luncheon leads to “a Cherry delight”
12/23/2015
29
Jun 2015 Phyllis & George Cherry, Tampa FL
And
looking back at some August notes, Ham Evans did
reschedule the luncheon that was thunder stormed out earlier. The good
news is that there has since been another encore performance this past
14 December. With equally good luck, we’ll get to see a pix from that
soiree. Scribe was unable to be present for either of these St
Petersburg soirees, but there was a splendidly special lunch with
Phyllis & George Cherry.
The scene of colorful tales
and reminiscences was the Colonade. another Tampa watering
hole packed with local history and overlooking Hillsborough Bay.
George’s splendid sense of humor ages as does the finest of wines. For
confirmation read our Fifty Year Book for his recollections of his
memorable Beast Barracks welcome
The A-2 Saga Continues! A grande cruise to Bermuda
11/24/2015
1961 A-2
Bermuda cruise, 11 October 2015: Paul DeVries, Lois & Bill Seltz, Judy
Carr, Sue DeVries, Jack Zimmerman and Sandy Dacheux, Bobbie & Jim
Blesse, Madeline & Roger Middlesteadt, Ellie Skillman.
Cruising to Bermuda was the feature of A-2’s
latest reunion. Per Jim Blesse, “After an awesome Bon-Voyage dinner at
Chateau DeVries on 8 October, we departed the next day from Baltimore
on board Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas.” As the photo attests,
on board for this gala were the Blesses, DeVries, Middlesteadts, Seltzs,
Jack Zimmerman and Sandy Dacheux, Judy Carr, and Ellie Skillman. Of
course to lend an “official” nature to the gathering there was the
pertinent Company Meeting en route to Bermuda to ensure that A-2
business remained in proper order. While in Bermuda, most of this A-2
crew toured with Rickey's Total Island Experience - - and… all after
action reports note that Rickey and his tour were magnificent. The AAR
went on to laud the fun and comradeship as well as the opportunity to
“get gussied-up", again, as the photo vividly depicts. So, score
another for Alpha Deuce.
Another reunion for our Plebe Basketball Team
11/10/2015
Back then, our Plebe basketball team: Gary
Lord, Lee Anderson, Bob Chelberg, Lee Sager,
Norm Olson, Ron
Hannon, Bob Strauss,
Joe Stewart , 2nd row: Jim Jackson, John MacLean, Pete
Gleichenhaus, Jim Scott,
Warren Watson,
Ken Sigenthaler, Back row CPT Win
Skelton,
MAJ Hank Emerson ’47,
Ron Barrick, George Joulwan,
Mike Brady, Frank
Blanda.,
Not Identified.
[Deceased]”
About ten years ago our ’mates who formed our Plebe basketball
team reunited in Helena, Montana for a big happy birthday
celebration. They were present to honor their coach, Henry
“Hank” Emerson ’47, then a major. This time, 12 August 2015
their reunion took on a melancholy yet still a celebratory tone.
They arrived at the Fort Myer historic Old Chapel adjacent to
the Arlington National Cemetery from California and points in
between. They were present to render final honors to LTG Hank
Emerson also renowned as the Gunfighter for his role as a combat
leader in Vietnam. However, on this day they were recalling his
fame and remembering him as “our coach.” So, our living
Classmates of the Plebe Basketball team huddled one more time to
recall the anecdotes of many years past. They chatted of places
and topics that had a common theme, lessons learned from LTG
Emerson who acted on his beliefs in and mutual respect and
support for the “little guys.” Our ’mates continued to echo
those thoughts as they trod behind the caisson along a well worn
trail leading to the Arlington hillside gravesite looking out
toward the nation’s capitol. The heat and painful knees and hips
did not impede the march or thoughts of Ron Barrick, Bob
Chelberg, Pete Gleichenhaus, Ron Hannon, John MacLean, Lee
Sager. Further among the hundred or so who joined the
march were Chuck Toftoy ’58 and Art Bair ’59 who had worked for
Emerson as well as continuing close ties to many of our ’mates.
Photo left: Now today, our Plebe
Basketball team with the head coach, Orvis Sigler, seated
beneath the clock. L to R- Pete Gleichenhaus, Bob Chelberg, John
MacLean, Ron Barrick, Lee Anderson, Sigler, Ron Hannon, George
Joulwan, Lee Sager. 12 Aug 15 at LTG Emerson’s wake at the
Army-Navy Country Club
At
the wake, Pete shared these photos that tell a
bit of the Team’s story from Plebe year to the present. He
described Orvis Sigler as a real professional [sitting in the
larger group photo] who was the full time basketball coach. He
was the guy who recruited the players in our class and it was he
who recruited Emerson, the former M-2 Tac to be the Plebe’s
coach/OIC. In 1958 Sigler left USMA for a coaching position at
Centenary College in Louisiana. Pete reminds us that five of the
Plebe team went on to the A Squad our firstie year and that the
officer in charge was then LTC George Rebh Jan ’43 who had been
a player as a cadet, and after WW II, a Rhodes Scholar.
Our Plebe basketball team; this time 12 Aug 2015 at the wake for LTG Emerson, their coach.”
Grip hands though it be from the shadows….
8/7/2015
Most
recently we’ve lost Jack RaibleandBruce
Dalgleish
Jack
passed 21 May 2015 in Carson City, NV, as a result of a heart attack
aggravated by treatment for leukemia in the last few years.
Surviving Jack is Linda his wife of over fifty years. Re reading the
pages of our reunion book, Fifty Years of Service,
1961-2011, we learn that Jack weaves his story filled
with adventure and travel before settling down. Alaska in the early
sixties was still primitive in many respects, but that prepared
Linda and him for their lengthy trek around America, to the east via
Chicago and the Great Lakes and on to the Atlantic’s shores. And
then a return to the Pacific coast via New Orleans and most of the
national parks on both routes. And that was just for openers. The
sum of it all is that their years together became enriched through
“getting hooked on the RV lifestyle.” So it is that Jack’s “work is
done, may it be said Well Done, be thou at peace.”
Jack was buried 3 June 2015 in Lone Mountain
Cemetery, Carson City, NV.
You may be in touch with Linda at 4193
Louise Drive, Carson City, NV 89706-0606.
Bruce passed 4 July 2015,
in Prescott Valley, AZ after a long and difficult illness.
Surviving Bruce are his wife Saundra; son,
Gregory; daughter, Nannette O’Donnell and her husband John; and
grandchildren, Meghan O’Donnell, Brian O’Donnell, Patrick O’Donnell,
and Emily O’Donnell. Bruce’s own words taken from our 50th Reunion
Book tell his story that reflects
his wry sense of humor and sense
of humility. For example: he stated that when at the ancient age of
45 and he thought he was eighteen, he played two soccer games… first
and last…having collided with a force greater than his own, really
messing up his leg.
So after many years later, he wrote in the Book
this closing sentence which sums it up: “I guess I am lucky to get
this far … I can thank my lucky stars and the great friends and
support I had along the way. It’s been a great trip.”
You may be in touch with Saundra at 4474
North Phillip Drive, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314-6354.
Well Done, Jack and Bruce
We’ve also lost two “old grads” who
impacted us along the way
Lieutenant General Henry E. Emerson ’47
8/7/2015
LTG Hank Emerson passed away
4 February 2015 at his Montana home. His funeral will be at
Arlington National Cemetery 12 August 2015. Pete
Gleichenhaus phoned to let us know some of the details and
helps us to recall that LTG Emerson was famed in Vietnam as the
“Gunfighter”. Then as our own careers progressed many watched him
rise to significant command positions in Vietnam and later in Korea,
as the CG, 2d Infantry Division and then returning to Fort Bragg to
command the XVIII Airborne Corps. Many of our ‘mates especially the
basketball players, will remember Hank Emerson as the totally
dedicated coach of our Plebe basketball team. About five years ago
he hosted a reunion with the team at his beloved Montana home; now
many of those ‘mates will join together for his funeral service and
wake and bid him farewell.
Herb Schandler passed 16 July 2015 in his home in Virginia at the age of 87. He had a severe
stroke some years earlier however. Some may recall that he was in the Social Science Department and later taught at the Industrial
College of the Armed Forces with a couple of years in between with 10th Special Forces and two tours in Vietnam. In his later years he
turned author to write "America in Vietnam; The War That Couldn't Be Won". The 1952 Howitzer described this
Ashville NC native and I-1 file with an “ever-present grin and ready
wit”. Many others will remember him as a fine officer, gentleman,
and scholar. May he rest in peace! There will be funeral with burial
in Arlington at a later date.
On a much lighter note
8/7/2015
Ham Evans
had arranged a Class luncheon in St Petersburg FL for our large
contingent of ‘mates along the Gulf Coast. Well, it turns out that
the deluge brought the region to a floating halt. Some even were of
the opinion that Noah was about to dock nearby to load up some of
our ‘mates and sail them to the luncheon. Instead Ham prudently
dispatched an email postponing the luncheon, to be held at a later
date. Now comes the punch line. We all remember the “2%”.
Well in
this case, three of our ‘mates who shall remain unnamed, were
diligent, loyal, and true Infantrymen at heart….plus they had not
checked their email. You guessed it! They pressed forward against
the storm surge and rallied on time upon the objective. So, the
luncheon, like the Broadway shows, “went on”. And with a good sense
of humor they wi fi’d a message: “great lunch… good food-a keeper!
was going to send you the bill, will settle for a stiff drink at our
next gathering” After all, only two are needed for a reunion. In
this instance there were three. That deserves a “go on with show”
Big news from Big Sky Country
7/31/2015
Judi
& Larry Butterworth with just cause and pride want all
of us to know that their second grand daughter has achieved the
title of Miss Montana for 2015 and will be competing in the Miss
America pageant. This year Danielle Wineman earned the crown
that signifies her achievements and will accompany her to the
Atlantic City pageant, 14 September 2015.
Dial your TV
[remember those] to ABC TV to observe the festivities. [Check
for the broadcast time]
We may recall that Danielle’s
younger sister Alexis was Miss Montana 2012. Judi & Larry
understand that Danielle and Alexis are the first sisters ever
to have competed in the Miss America pageant. A bit of history.
So as Judi & Larry signed off: “All’s well in Big Sky Country!”
Class Luncheons
7/14/2015
Be advised: Our next and last Class luncheon for 2015 will be 22 October at the Fort Myer Officers club. Ed Brown will send an email announcement/invitation about three weeks in advance. However, now is the time to ink in the date; why wait only to discover that “some other matter”
could preempt being with our ‘mates? It could turn out to
be “another opportunity not to miss.” For example, the
previous two luncheons of 2015 were very well received.
Ambassador Larry Butler, 25 February Luncheon Speaker
7/14/2015
In
addition to insights and descriptions of events, locales,
and personalities gleaned from a lifetime of personal and
professional experiences, Ambassador Butler noted a memory
involving one of our ‘mates, to wit George Joulwan.
Read on...
Photo: 1961 Luncheon Ft. Myer 25 February
2015: Bill [The Fastest Flying Finn] Mackie and Bob Glass
hosted Ambassador Larry Butler [center].
Photo: 1961 Luncheon Ft.
Myer 25 February 2015: Many of our Class wives were present
for Ambassador Butler’s talk: Sue Devries, Chan Eiland,
Gale McConnell, Ruth Kee, Millie Counts, Judy Kremer, Kay Popovich, Denise Legge, Priscilla Hardiman, Dawn Glass,
Pat Veatch, Rina Brown
Ambassador Butler spoke of George Joulwan in Belgrade, 1996
7/14/2015
The place was
Belgrade, about 1996; the time and event was about a year
after the signing of the Dayton Accords, which he helped
negotiate: Somewhat paraphrasing: Ambassador Butler
remembered well that George arrived to brief Milosevic on
the Dayton Accords, Annex 1 tasks. The then-Serbian Chief
of Defense [CHOD], a real hardliner, was colder than ice
in meeting Joulwan, but Milosevic could barely contain his
excitement. When George unrolled a map onto the conference
table that showed the zones of separation and progress
towards meeting the timetable, Milosevic nearly crawled
onto the table top to examine the map up close. “I don't
think he'd ever seen a NATO small scale map (it was a big
one). After the separate Chiefs of Defense completed their
meeting we exited and ran into a Serbian private standing
guard outside. Joulwan immediately started asking the kid
about where he was from, did he have a girlfriend, the
usual. The kid was a little startled, but warmed up and
answered the questions. I was the interpreter. George gave
him one of his SACEUR coins and gave the kid a hug. About
that time, the Serbian CHOD came out a back door from his
office to observe the hated American making friends, one
at a time. Not a happy camper!”
Ambassador
Butler’s resume
Now,
where else are we likely to get a first hand story
connecting our ‘mates and world events? By the way,
Butler’s resume in itself is a matter of interest:
An Army Brat, [father, Charles L. Butler, USMA ’50,
killed in action, Vietnam, 21 June 1972]
Numerous awards, in recognition of his 37 year
career of distinguished service as a top level diplomat
in Europe, the Balkans, the Middle East and within the
State Department.
Chuck Toftoy ’58, 28 May Luncheon Speaker
7/14/2015
The more recent
Class luncheon was also at the Ft Myer Officers Club, 28
May 2015 and our featured speaker was Chuck Toftoy, E-2
’58. Some will remember him as well from our Beast
Barracks days [4th New Cadet Company]. Chuck spoke with us
about his latest book, Amazing Fireside Talks.
In introducing him to about thirty of our ‘mates and
wives, it was noted that Chuck was born West Point when
his father was an academic “P”. Later MG Holger Toftoy ’29
became an early leader in the development of US Army
rocket systems, the ancestors of today’s NASA launch
vehicles. Also noted was Chuck’s Howitzer
entry describing his cheerful personality, which our
‘mates agreed has been with him ever since. Chuck seemed
to enjoy the various references which he felt reconnected
him with his plebes or “weanies” as he kept referring to
us. A few of the wives present apparently had not heard
that term of endearment
before. Perhaps one or two of our
‘mates even may have forgotten the term, if that’s
possible.
Per his book’s summary and his explanations
the chapters go into topics regarding life’s important
issues such as self awareness, personal character,
dignity, integrity, happiness, trust, and our quests. In
his presentation, he gave us some insights to his research
methodology [he worked on the manuscript for more than
three years, rather than pulling an all nighter before the
paper was due. He framed the contents with quotations from
notable personalities opening with Nelson Mandela.
Cy Shearer, Wounded Warriors Mentor
7/14/2015
Chuck added some
liveliness by creating a give and take conversation on his
various topics, taking in the thoughts and comments of our
‘mates. [I very stealthily remained in name tag defilade,
avoiding the certainty of being told to recite
“something”.] I think everyone there had a favorable
reaction and even took up Chuck’s offer to purchase an
autographed copy. Chuck has been donating the proceeds to
the Wounded Warrior Mentor Program which he described and
he recognized Cy Shearer who has been
leading it and coordinates matching former military
officers [mostly grads] with the young men and women who
have survived and still are recovering
from war and want
the companionship and mentoring that the volunteers have
generously given over the past ten plus years. You will
recall that Bruce Holmberg headed up the
program until he passed away in Jan 2009. Chuck has
authored some mystery novels which he explained as well,
but this one is his “piece de resistance” [my words]. You
can indulge yourself at his web site
www.charlestoftoy.com and even contact him at
casb@gwu.edu. So then,
the luncheon went well, thanks to Chuck and to Ed
Brown, as usual for making the arrangements.
Thanks as well to David Brooks
7/14/2015
David is another
E-2 file who recalls Chuck so he made a point of giving us
a heads up regarding Chuck’s father. While neither he or
our other ‘mates at the Army Residence Community in San
Antonio [the Cairns, the DeWitts,
the Mallorys] could make the
luncheon they do aim to stay in the net. However, those
who did join the soiree were Rina & Ed Brown, Judy
Kremer, Paul DeVries, George Kopcsak, Sharon & Gene
Goodell, Cy Shearer, Chan & Mike Eiland, Bob Rosenkranz,
Larry Noble [who won the raffle for a free book],
Millie & Todd Counts, Gale & Bob McConnell, Mary
Frances & Hank Kenny, Trish & Dick Buckner, Estelle & Joe
Clema, Ginna & Joe Fishburne, Bob Glass, Ed Leland, and
Lonie & Bob Kewley who were in the AO after
visiting their son at USMA and their daughter and family
in Fairfax.
Reminder: Hope a platoon or two will be in
the Ft Myer O’Club chow line, 22 October.
From Karen & Mike Urette:
3/13/2015
News just in
as of 11 March 2015, Mike advises us that his
doctors have stated that his prostate cancer
treatment has been successful. The docs have
explained to Mike that the technical definition is
that his PSA of 0.05 is interpreted to mean that
there is now no trace of cancer. As a follow up,
Mike will do more testing to confirm these findings.
You will recall that Mike has kept us informed of
his experiences regarding tests, exams, assessments,
and treatments. Then as well as now, especially in
light of his doctor’s report, he remains available
for conversations.
From Jay
Olejniczak:
3/13/2015
With Mike’s
experiences in mind, Jay has shared
some related challenges and adventures of his own.
“Regarding Mike Urette's prostate cancer, been
there, done that at Duke Cancer Center here in
Durham, NC. Total of 38 visits to radiology. Became
fast friends with many folks there over the course
from Thanksgiving 2013 to St. Valentine's Day 2014.
Jay has not specified his current status, however,
he seems as chipper as ever, to wit: “Also took a
trip to Scotland last fall (2014) with
Sylvia (who is a Graham by birth).”
More
recently the two of them “Just took the plunge into
iPhones. Will take them to San Diego later in the
month so our grandchildren can show us how to
operate them.”
[That sure sounds positive!!] Plus,
Jay goes on, “Finally self-published a book, To
Be A Soldier: A Selective American Military History,
through Xlibris. Should be on Amazon by now. Starts
with West Point and the Revolutionary War and then
covers West Point, the academy, and its grads
through the first Gulf War. Covers everything from
Poe, Whistler, and Jeff Davis to The Mole and
Bannerman's Island, Boscobel (across the river), the
Warner Sisters, and Mama Leone's. Courtesy of Sylvia
Graham, noted photographer and former editor of the
Register of Graduates, the book
will have a great cover photo that is worth the
price alone!”
Go for it Jay!
Jay is catching up with Mike Eggleston who has
another tome in the works telling the story of the
Marine’s Fifth Infantry Regiment, the Fighting
Bulldogs, in France, WW I. Mike’s inspiration for
his research and writing is his father-in-law. For
the rest of the story you’ll have to read his book
due for publication in late September 2015.
From the Blesses, the DeVries and the Butterworths:
3/13/2015
Another of '61 "small world stories": from Bobbie &
Jim - "As Larry Butterworth has told you, he and
Judi were on a Viking River cruise from (and to)
Bordeaux, France in September [2014] along with the
DeVries and Blesses. Larry asked that I send the
best photo of our cluster."
Judi Butterworth, Bobbie Blesse,
SueDeVries [Truly the best photo]
Elegant dining – Judi & Larry
Butterworth, Bobbie & Jim Blesse, Sue & Paul DeVries
Bobbie & Jim
finally made the Christmas time jaunt to
Williamsburg for the "Grand Illumination" which they
had talked about doing for a LONG time and now have
finally done it!!
To conclude this session:
3/13/2015
This
important announcement: The funeral for
Georgia Witherspoon will be at 1:30 PM on
12 June 2015 at the Old Cadet Chapel at West Point
with burial to follow in the West Point Cemetery.
There will be a reception after the funeral at a
place to be determined. For reception planning
purposes, please let Gene know if you plan to attend
by sending him a message to
eswitherspoon@charter.net. You will recall that
Georgia passed away suddenly last March 2014.
September K-1 Gathering
1/20/2015
Back
in September 2014, 24 September to be exact the K-1 files
gathered at the Goodyear, Arizona manse of Ruth & Gary
Lord for what was to be a truly outstandingly memorable
gathering of 61’s “Not Obnoxiously Eager” files of K-1. The
Lords, with Dianne & Nick Vay in direct support
planned, organized, and hosted activities that kept everyone
active, excited, and most of all just plain happy and thankful
to be once again with comrades-in-arms of so many years. Bill
Tyler with the diligent aid of his other K-1 ‘mates reported on
their mini reunion, with the detailed descriptions that bring to
us readers a sense of being there too. So, read on!!
“As the Long Gray Line gets longer and longer in front of us,
the memories of yesteryears, easily defined as the years between
July 1957 and June 1961, need refreshing to bring those memories
back in even ‘larger than life’ stories of the “way we were”
back then.
“Ruth & Gary Lord, with the
support of Dianne & Nick Vay, planned,
organized, and hosted
the activities and provided the assembly
area for the most recent Mini-Reunion. Thus, “Not Obnoxiously
Eager” members of K-1, ’61 and their wives began arriving in
Goodyear, Arizona from states to the north, south, east, and
west on Wednesday, the 24th of September, 2014. The kickoff
began with a get-together at the Lord’s. Joining the Lords and
the Vays in the fray were Linda & Glynn Mallory
(TX), LuAnn & Bill Reno (VA/FL), Anne
Tedrick (NV), Stephanie & Jack Dorr
(NC), Sandy & Mac Compton (CA), Gail &
Dick Clarke (SC), Pam & Dan Barney
(PA), and Ann & Bill Tyler (LA). We raised our
glasses to those classmates and wives of K-1 who couldn’t be
there. One of the most amazing things about a reunion of company
mates and their wives whom you haven’t seen in at least several
years is that you just pick up the conversations as if it was
yesterday—learning to spit shine shoes in beast, shower
formations, 150 lb football, and, somehow, a lot of discussion
about George Washington’s Horse, then out at Trophy Point, (but
that’s an inside company story).
[Left flank] -
September 2014 K-1 Mini Reunion, Goodyear, Arizona: At
Luke AFB with F-35: from left to right: Dianne Vay,
Nick Vay, Mac Compton, Bill Reno, LuAnn Reno, Bill Tyler (Ann
Tyler was absent from the photo) , Sandy Compton (behind), Anne
Tedrick.
“With old friendships reestablished, everyone
was ready to tackle the many planned activities: tours of model
homes for the Pebble Creek area, the Desert Botanical Gardens,
the Museum of Musical Instruments, and Frank Lloyd Wright’s
Taliesin West. While several took those tours, Glynn and Bill R.
both on the Golf Injured Reserve list, were supervising the Golf
Threesome of Gary, Dick, and Bill T. This fearsomely supervised
threesome played rounds at one of the Pebble Creek Courses and,
later, at Luke Air Force Base. Dick took the ‘big purse’ and the
Championship. Luke’s golf course, incidentally, is a very
beautiful course (it looks like they imported a little bit of
Kentucky to AZ).
“There were other activities which all attended
and, which coincidentally were the consensus highlights of our
activities:
“A private presentation and visit to Molina Jewelry, a
magnificent store that is several levels above our pay grade. Al
Molina was a grand speaker, whose personal and company history
was captivating. His company’s history included having purchased
the companies that made the first “Medal of Honor” and the first
“West Point Class Rings.” [Black, Starr, & Frost was the
company which crafted the first West Point Ring and the
first
Medal of Honor and which Molina Jewelry purchased] Those
connections were reflected in displays within their jewelry
counters and was an unexpected historic connection for our
‘mates. Our wives were more impressed with his actual jewelry
and ‘oohed’ and ‘ah’d’ as they passed a two million dollar
diamond necklace, an eight hundred thousand dollar ruby and
diamond ring, and other trinkets from person to person. While
the wives loved this part, I noted that classmates passed the
jewelry on like hot potatoes and were ‘obnoxiously eager, rather
than not’ for their wives to pass them on and not become
attached. As the blue sapphire ring was passed, I noticed it
looked significantly different from the synthetic blue sapphire
in my class ring. I guess it is true that you get what you pay
for.
“A visit to TASER, International where our host
was none other than our A-1 ‘mate, Phil Smith.
Phil’s son Rick founded the company, and Phil was the initial
Chairman of the Board. Retirng in 2006, he holds the title of
Chairman Emeritus. Phil gave us the company’s history and issues
it has experienced. Then the company staff briefed us further
also giving us opportunities to fire the Taser and to observe
one of the employees voluntarily get shot by the Taser. In sum,
it was an eye-opener to see the effectiveness which this
non-lethal weapon added to the police arsenal. The use of
cameras, which has received considerable publicity since events
at Ferguson, MO were also a topic of conversation as the company
is involved in their production as well.
Photo: September 2014 K-1 Mini Reunion,
Goodyear, Arizona: The whole gang in one panoramic shot.
“A final highlight was a briefing on the USAF’s
F-35 Fighter. After the briefing, it wasn’t hands on, but we did
get a close-up look, as close as security would allow, that is.
We all had our photo taken in front of the plane.
“It’s quite an airplane! Its Navy/Marine version does vertical
takeoffs and landings and video of it doing so was just released
publicly. It was impressive and the price tag was far more
expensive than the jewelry, but it didn’t get the ‘oohs’ and
‘ah’s’ that the diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires got.
“NickVay noted that ‘eating’ was the most
frequently recurring activity on our busy agenda of activities.
True, we did not miss a meal and visited some unique and
excellent restaurants. Although the activities were interesting
and enjoyable, the opportunities for camaraderie and visiting
with old friends in the evenings were the true highlights of the
Mini-Reunion. We had another great evening dinner with musical
entertainment at the Lord’s, another evening dinner-dance at
their Pebble Creek Club, which also included our own stage show
entertainer for singing and dancing, and a final brunch together
on Sunday morning before everyone had to rush off before their
chariots turned into pumpkins. And speaking of chariots (and
their drivers), I have to give Jack Dorr, Dick Clarke, and Mac
Compton kudos for their transportation roles that made the
reunion successful and that also got everyone to and from the
airport. And a final thanks again to Ruth & Gary for being the
most gracious host and hostess. Gary’s toast to our deceased
classmates—Jim Tedrick, Eph Crews, and J.J. Roberts—and our
singing of the Alma Mater was a memorable moment on our final
evening. To Ruth & Gary: Well done!”
PS: Stephanie Dorr is planning
two simultaneous knee operations in Feb 2015. Dan Barney had
knee replacement surgery after returning from AZ.
He's
progressing well in recovery and in rehab.
Submitted by Bill Tyler with inputs from Nick
Vay and Pam Barney and photographs from Anne Tedrick and Dianne
Vay.
Photo 2: [Left flank] - September 2014 K-1 Mini Reunion,
Goodyear, Arizona: At Luke AFB with F-35: from left to right:
Dianne Vay, Nick Vay, Mac Compton, Bill Reno, LuAnn Reno, Bill
Tyler (Ann Tyler was absent from the photo), Sandy Compton
(behind), Anne Tedrick
Photo 3: [Right flank] 1961- September 2014 K-1 Mini
Reunion, Goodyear, Arizona: At Luke AFB with F-35: from left to
right: Pam Barney, Dan Barney, Dick Clarke, Gail Clarke, Ruth
Lord, Gary Lord, Steffany Dorr, Jack Dorr, Linda Mallory, Glynn
Mallory
Photo 4: September 2014 K-1 Mini Reunion, Goodyear, Arizona:
That’s Bill Reno working up the golfing arrangements and
insuring everyone made it to the 19th hole
Photo 5: September 2014 K-1 Mini Reunion, Goodyear, Arizona:
A briefing on the F-35 at Luke AFB: From Left to Right:
Nick Vay,
Dianne Vay, Bill Tyler, Gail Clarke (back of head only), Dick
Clarke, Dan Barney, LuAnn Reno, Gary Lord, Pam Barney, Glynn
Mallory (just nose and glasses), Jack Dorr, Bill Reno.
Congratulations
12/2/2014
Fifty Years and Counting
Coralinn
& Mick Maus celebrated their fiftieth wedding
anniversary in great style: cutting their cake with Mick’s
cadet saber and tapping their feet to lively and nostalgic
tunes by a Bavarian style quintet as well as their grandson
at the piano. They married in the Bavarian town of
Oberammergau at the Sankt Peter and Paul Kirche. The parents
of Coralinn (Paul Tuttle ‘39) were stationed in Oberammergau
but Mick’s parents being at an even greater distance were
unable to attend [remember trans Atlantic flying was a bit
different in 1964]
Some
of our ‘mates were in attendance as well. So for this
celebration, their three children (one of whom Michael is
‘87) decided to take them back to that day fifty years ago
in Germany by decorating the house in the manner of a
Bavarian beer hall, including the vibrant Bavarian style
quintet.
Adding to this nostalgic tour down memory lane was
the German menu of authentic delights and of course frothy
pilsners for the over seventy applauding guests. Coralinn &
Mick’s understatement of the day was “
It was a
wonderful occasion.”
1961 McKinney, TX: The Maus' 50th wedding
anniversary Bavarian music serenade and as accompanied by
Daniel Kerlin, their youngest grandson who “definitely got
caught up in the moment.”
Photo: Topping off their 50th anniversary celebration
they later won first place at the Saint Gabriel's Charity
golf outing. Mick was in charge of bringing in sponsors for
this special event. On the left are Wayne & Elaine Dow who
are members of the parish and their scramble partners in the
tournament. “We also won with them in 2012. And yes they are
good golfers.”… Mick
Mike Urette
Named Board Chair The John and Mabel Ringling Museum of Art
Foundation, Inc.
12/2/2014
In recent weeks we’ve
learned a lot about Mike Urette and his
work and contributions to the Tampa Bay community.
There
has been the announcement from the John and Mabel
Ringling Museum of Art Foundationregarding his years of
service to this venerable institution. Importantly, Mike
reminds us, the Ringling Museum is the official
state museum of Florida.
Below is the Foundation statement, somewhat edited for
length by your Scribe, explaining Mike’s roles in the
community and his experience that qualify their choice of
promoting him to his newest role as its board chairman.
Earlier Mike had served on the Board and since 2009 was
Chair of the Development Committee and the Budget, Finance
and Investment Committee. Following the announcement of
Mike’s appointment, there has been added recognition of his
position as an important collector and exhibitor of classic
art.
Before engaging in Mike’s plaudits, he wants us to know
of his latest role:
Now,
he has taken on a vastly different challenge and one that
behooves us to give our attention to.
Mike is now undergoing treatment for prostate cancer.
Karen & Mike have taken on this challenge
as an opportunity to share the experience with the goal of
offering insights that may benefit the rest of us.
So, read on, in Mike’s words……
“… discovery of prostate cancer:
After many years of DREs, BPH, PSAs, cystoscopies, and
multiple biopsies, the urologist found prostate cancer (PCa)
on July 22, 2014.
I have been asked to share the odyssey of
discovery, with the thought that the data sharing might be
useful to others who may receive a similar diagnosis. INDICATORS:
The two primary indicators of PCa are the DRE and the PSA.
Men over 50 should be experienced with both.
I have been
plotting my PSA for over 20 years and it was easy to
recognize when there was a significant increase in its level
in January 2014.
It jumped from a 9.0 to 11.5 in six
months.
Every man’s normal PSA range is different (usually
below 4.0) but mine happens to run high due to a very large
gland.
The change indicated the need for another biopsy (my
third in 12 years). DIAGNOSIS:
There are a variety of types of biopsies that can be
performed: “blind”; targeted; saturation.
The blind and
targeted usually involve taking 12 cores of tissue from the
prostate gland. The saturation approach takes 30-40 cores
and is done under general anesthetic.
I had the saturation
biopsy because the prior two blind procedures had been
negative.
One core sample out of 40 was positive for
cancer, and less than 5% of that sample contained cancer.
However, the Gleason Score, which measures the
aggressiveness of the disease, for that sample was
determined to be an 8—indicating an aggressive type of
cancer.
The stage of cancer was designated T1c which means
that cancer was found on biopsy.
To confirm that the cancer was still contained within the
prostate, was localized in just one area and had not spread,
a bone scan and a MRI were done approximately six weeks
after the biopsy. About this time, a good friend of mine
also discovered PCa
and recommended a book which I found
helpful in organizing my thoughts and data: “Prostate
Cancer Breakthroughs, 2014” by Jay S. Cohen, M.D.
As
you will find, there is a great deal of information on the
internet, but I found this 200 page book more useful than
the vast majority of internet data.
It should be noted that I was being seen at Moffitt Cancer
Center in Tampa.
Like most men of a certain age, I had had
a “favorite” urologist for years, but when suspicions of PCa
arose I switched to the Cancer Center and I believe that was
a wise move because of the more in depth and more up-to-date
research available.
The oncology urologist, who happens to
be a surgeon, recommended that due to the high Gleason Score
I should undergo external beam radiation treatment followed
by brachytherapy (radioactive seed implants).
Surgery was
not an option due to: age—70 is typically the cut-off for
surgery; and the possibility of complications arising due to
prior prostate procedures (TURPs).
The book referenced above describes at least fourteen
different types of therapies to treat PCa, and deciding
which to pursue was the most challenging aspect my wife and
I have encountered in dealing with the problem.
To help us
sort out the pros and cons of alternative therapies, we
elected to get a second opinion from another cancer center.
SECOND OPINION:
This is the fun part!
Do you want to go to Baltimore, New
York, Boston, Chicago, Minneapolis, Houston, or Los
Angeles?
If you are going to spend all the time and money
for a second opinion, you may as well enjoy the
destination—at least that was our approach.
We are very
lucky that there are so many outstanding cancer centers in
the U.S. and picking any one is highly likely to be a
rewarding experience. And they all have an established
procedure for providing Second Opinions.
We selected Dana
Farber Cancer Institute in Boston—Johns
Hopkins in
Baltimore would have been our alternative if we could not
connect with Dana Farber for any reason.
We were seen by a medical oncologist and a radiation
oncologist.
A surgeon had been schedule to see me but after
reviewing the films and records, he agreed that I was not a
candidate for surgery and did not see me.
We felt that the
two physicians who examined me and my data did a very
thorough analysis.
They recommended a treatment plan
somewhat different from that provided by the doctor at
Moffitt. They recommended immediately starting with hormone
therapy (HT) and working into external beam radiation (IMRT)
within 30 days thereafter—the time needed to analyze and
plan the dose rate and duration of the radiation.
The
hormone therapy approach was a shock!
I had read about the
side effects of HT and they were not pretty.
My always
upbeat spouse said not to worry, at last she would get the
air conditioning turned down to her comfort level (due to
hot flashes), and if I developed any other post-menopausal
symptoms—she would take me shoe shopping with her!!!!
So impressed were we with Dana Farber that we gave very
serious consideration to being treated there despite having
to be away from home for approximately two months.
However,
upon returning to Moffitt following the Boston excursion, we
found that they agreed with the plan from Boston and were
prepared to execute it.
At that point it just made more
sense to stay home in Tampa for treatment.
I started HT on October 1st.
The side effects are certainly
present, but minimal.
Nowhere near as severe as I
expected.
In early December I expect to start Intensity
Modulated Radiation Therapy on a 5 day a week basis for five
to ten weeks. My expectations are that the combined
therapies will control the cancer to the extent that,
although it may linger in the body, it won’t be the cause of
death.
That’s the good news!
I hope this very abbreviated history may be helpful to
anyone diagnosed with PCa.
In my opinion it should be made
available to everyone over 50 years old.
I would be happy
to answer any questions and can be reached at:
mike@tampapalmscenter.com . Mike Urette ’61.
OK, now back to the headline for this edition of our
notes:
Mike Urette Named Board Chair
Mike
with Karen’s support is the founder and
chief executive of Great American Corporation in Tampa, a
family administered company focused on diversified real
estate construction, development, and management. Throughout
these years Mike has been active in the Tampa community and
has held
responsible civic positions focused on the arts
and support for the military. As Chairman of the Building
Committee at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Mike was
responsible for over-seeing the construction of the Patel
Conservatory. In 2010 the Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture &
the Arts recognized him for his impact on Tampa’s cultural
community. Also important is that Karen & Mike are donors to
the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay, the Tampa Bay History
Center and the Tampa Theatre. Mike had served as president
of the Tampa’s Military Affairs Committee, the West Point
Society and Leadership Tampa Alumni. Topping it off is that
Mike remains an active member of the American Committee on
Foreign Relations, the Society of International Business
Fellows, and the Tampa Yacht and Country Club.
To wrap up on a lighter note
12/2/2014
Tom
Rousseau has been pursuing motorcycle adventure for
sometime.
He wants to let us know of his latest ride to the
convocation at the Heluva Rukus, the NY State Championship
of Cowboy Action Shooting. Pictured with Tom are sons Guy in
the black hat and Jay in the white hat. [That’s Tom in the
middle] Tom has been the match director for the past five
years.
This year, 18-20 September there were 266
participants from 19 states and Canada.
Both of Tom’s sons
participated in the cowboy shooting.
The grand daughters
are also shooters but didn’t make this trip. Anne
was attending the home front in Troy where they
continue to enjoy the fruits of their labors in retirement.
Dan Halpin presents the American Society of Civil Engineers' Daniel W. Halpin Award
8/27/2014
On 21 May 2014 in Atlanta, Dan Halpin
presented an award of the American Society of Civil
Engineers.
Annually recognizing outstanding young civil
engineering faculty and researchers and named in Dan's
honor, the 2014 award went to Sang Hyun Lee of the
University of Michigan. In attendance were 340 civil
engineers and educators from around the world to include two
previous awardees seen in the
accompanying
Photo:
Gunnar Lucko, Catholic University of America; Dan;
Sang Hyun Lee and Vineet
Kamat, University of
Michigan.
Founders Day –
2014
8/27/2014
Joyce & Brian Schultz, as Florida
"snowbirds", joined fellow grads of the Palm Beaches and
Treasure Coast society for this year's Founders Day. They
were also charged to welcome Brigadier General Timothy E.
Trainor '83, USMA's 13th Dean, to the PGA Golf Club
luncheon, 23 March 2014 in West Palm Beach.
Joyce & Brian
have been relishing their winters in nearby Jupiter Beach
for a number of years, yet do look forward to the orderly
retrograde north to the "cooler" climes of NJ during April
to December.
Photo:
23 March 2014
Brian Schultz welcoming The Dean to the Founders Day Dinner
at the PGA Golf Club
Michael McCarthy
2000 and Tom Rousseau, Founders Day 2014, Albany, NY
8/27/2014
Tom Rousseau attended Founders Day events
in Albany, NY where he was "recognized" as the Oldest Grad
…."shocked, surprised and awed" and Classmated given that
Mike Breslin was not present.
Per the
photo, the Youngest Grad was Michael McCarthy, ’00.
Anne & Tom live in Troy and son Jay lives nearby in
a house built in 1842.
Because of its locally historic
significance Life Magazine pictured it as part of
its special edition commemorating the 70th anniversary of
the D-Day landings. Two granddaughters and son Guy live in
Michigan where he is an environmental engineer. During a
2013 business trip to the Philippines, Guy caught up with
Ray Ong ’63, an E-2 file with whom Tom has kept in touch
over these many years.
Photo: 23 March 2014
Michael McCarthy 2000 [on left] and Tom
Rousseau "Youngest and Oldest Grads" at the Albany,
NY Founders Day Dinner.
San Antonio
Country Club Hosted the 2014 Founders Day dinner
8/27/2014
Mimi & David Brooks want us to know that
our many "mates residing at the Army Residence Community
raised their glasses high to honor the Academy's 212th
anniversary. The photo shows that joining our "mates as the
evening's speaker was a Class son, Commandant of Cadets BG
Richard Clarke, [also Gail & Dick Clarke's
son]. Mimi & David go on to describe another grand evening
of fine dining in late July at the ARC Lakeside Restaurant.
They were with Linda & Glynn Mallory, Terry & Bob
Cairns, Sharon & Phil Mallory.
The evening was
special in a number of ways.
July 2014
dinner at the Army Residence Community Lakeside Restaurant:
Terry & Bob Cairns, Linda & Glynn Mallory; Sharon &
Phil Mallory, Mimi & David Brooks.
Linda & Glynn celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on
13 June as well as their relief that Glynn's earlier back
surgery is proving to be successful.
So, along with
Nancy & Howard DeWitt who joined them a bit later
there were lots of good and fun tales accompanied and
complimented by a highly functional dispenser of Class VI
products: "you should see these young guys in action" and a
visit to the ARC would be in order for all of our "mates.
David sent us a photo as well of our "mates who were present
at the dinner. Then during late August the Brooks were
in route via their BMW Z4 to Orcas Island, WA.
After a stop
over in Redlands, CA they met up with Terry & Bob for a stay
in their farmhouse and to fish and crab for several weeks.
March 2014, Founders Day dinner, San
Antonio: Glynn Mallory, Ken McCollister, Howard
DeWitt, Art Downey, BG Richard Clarke '84,
David Brooks, Steve Denny, Bob Cairns.
More News from
the Bear State
8/27/2014
August 2014 vicinity Fort Funston,
southwest of the Presidio of San Francisco: Barbara
& Pete Gleichenhaus.
Barbara & Pete Gleichenhaus spent a day
exploring the beaches and remaining coast artillery
emplacements of old Fort Funston, now part of the Golden
Gate National Recreation Area. .
Along with them were
daughter Risa [with her two pups]and Pete's sister Anne and
her daughter Liz (the Founder and Director of Corps Africa (corpsafrica.com).
Liz, in addition to visiting Uncle Pete, was in California
raising money and thanking major supporters. FYI: Barbara &
Pete's son Joey and family are in Korea.
Pete Space A'd
there earlier this year for a welcome visit.
FYI: Pete's niece Liz Fanning served in the
Peace Corps in Morocco in the early 1990'swhere she lived in
a small Berber village and worked on environmental
sustainability projects. In founding Corps Africa, Liz used
the Peace Corps model that includes recruiting men and women
from developing countries of Africa to move to high-poverty
communities within their own country.
An additional FYI: For all the artillery
files out there, the fort, renamed for Major General
Frederick Funston in 1917, began taking shape as
World War I began to rage.
The War Department
constructed a parade ground, barracks and a series of
coastal batteries. After WW II the Department then
declared seacoast batteries as obsolete, paving the way for
the fort to become a
Nike missile launch site.
And as the life cycle
management of military resources inexorably ground forward,
in 1963 Fort Funston became an artifact perfect for
inactivation and thus entered another phase of its life
cycle, this time as part of the
National Park Service. Today, the area has evolved as a
network of trails suitable for hiking and horseback riding.
The beach is known for its magnetic sand and strong
currents, discouraging swimming. Fort Funston's strong,
steady winds make the cliffs overlooking the beach a popular
site for
hang gliding. [For all of you wanna be free flyers]
August 2014 vicinity Presidio of San
Francisco: Pete with the other lovely
ladies in his life, daughter Risa [with Austin and Ralph],
niece Liz Fanning, and her mother and Pete's sister, Anne.
*PS: Thanks to Wikipedia for Ft Funston and Corps Africa background
Update: Our 55th Reunion
6/1/2014
Click
here to get the latest report from the 55th Reunion
Planning Committee.
David Brooks Sends…
6/1/2014
Photo:
April 2014 at the ARC:Sharon Mallorys, Terry &
Bob Cairns, Phil Mallory,
and Mimi Brooks.
Mimi & David’s son Todd
retired as an Air Force O-6 in Germany and changed his uniform to civilian
attire and started work in the same headquarters, USAFE, at
Ramstein.
The Brooks will be there to see their grandson
graduate from high school.
Their daughter, Anne Marie and
family live in Charlottesville where son-in-law Steve is the
PMS of the Air Force ROTC at University of Virginia.
David
also sends news that Sharon & Phil Mallory
have signed the paperwork and will move into a "temporary"
cottage [o/a ‘til June/July] awaiting the opportunity to get
their desired floor plan in one of the newer cottages
"across the bridge", our recently developed addition to the
ARC property. The Mallorys live just north of Austin, an
easy trip down for them. It also was old home week for them
as they met ARC residents Dick and Bev Graves ('58) and
recounted many memories of their Army armor assignments.
Jim Harmon Sends…
6/1/2014
Jim, Terry Kirkpatrick, Charlie Welsh hit
the ski slopes together back on 12 March 2014 at Crystal
Mountain from which Mt. Rainer is visible. They did quite
well skiing, and avoiding the moguls [mounds of compacted
snow forming obstacles on a ski slope] at our tender ages!”
IT’S 2014!!
2/10/2014
Seems that only a
short while ago that the balloons were rising to the
ceilings and the horns sounded the arrival of 2014 following
the balmy days of late December. Now, 2014 has punctuated
its arrival with the Arctic vortex and snow in the east and
drought in the west. Yet, now in February our thoughts and
the Groundhog insist that spring will come soon to northern
Virginia and to you wherever you are.
However and on the
other hand rather than worrying about weather, instead by
opening up these cyber page notes you must be in the mode
for catching up a bit, deep in the heart of February. So,
here’s a review of events of the latter half 2013. There
were lots of celebratory times and there were those times
when we mourned the passing of ‘mates as well as their loved
ones.
[*Before proceeding, let’s acknowledge Sam
Weiss and our Class Web site as a source of news
and information that should be included in your reading.]
…..AND 2013 WAS A VERY GOOD YEAR!
2/10/2014
Photo
Left:
Jan & Rod
Grannemann and
Bill Esselstein at the dedication of the
Defender’s Lodge at the VA Center, Palo Alto, CA, 8 October
2013
Photo
Right: Jim Nicholson,
past Secretary of Veterans Affairs joined Penny &
Lee Anderson at the dedication of the Defender’s
Lodge at the VA Center, Palo Alto, CA, 8 October 2013
To begin, we consider this past 2013 to be a truly special
year for Penny & Lee Anderson.
In May we
watched as Lee stood on the Plain becoming ‘61’s third
Distinguished Graduate and
joining George Joulwan
and Jim Nicholson.
Then, almost before
Penny & Lee could catch their breath, on 8 October 2013
they, as major donors, were the principals at the dedication
of
a state of the art hostel for service men and women
receiving care at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital,
Palo Alto. Thanks to
Alan Lubke
we learned that the
Defender’s Lodge is a 52 room, 104 bed, 34,000 square
foot living facility that the PenFed (Pentagon Federal
Credit Union) Foundation supports and makes possible.
The Defender’s Lodge
enables veterans to share a free
room with their caregivers instead of some of the unfitting
alternatives that some of our veterans have been facing.
In his remarks, Lee who is also Chairman of the Board of API
Group (see
www.apigroupinc.com) noted that his company employs
about 10,000 men and women; he continued by saying that he
has directed his management team that going forward, he
wanted to hire only veterans.
Lee also made a special point
of recognizing our ‘mates who were present for this special
day.
Joining him on the stage was, Jim Nicholson [former
Secretary of Veterans Affairs] and in the audience were
Alan, Charlie Burns,
Bill Esselstein, Pete Gleichenhaus,
and Rod Grannemann.
Consistent with Lee’s demonstrated philosophy of giving
back, sharing the fruits of his life well lived, the Horatio
Alger Association of Distinguished Americans has selected
him for its prestigious award.
The award recognizes his
exceptional leadership and commitment to philanthropy and
higher education, all in the face of overcoming significant
personal challenges in order to achieve success. It is also
important to note that the Association is a nonprofit
educational organization honoring the achievements of
outstanding individuals and encouraging youth to pursue
their dreams through higher education. In this respect we
should know that Penny & Lee have given more than $60
million to the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN and
we can recall that they are our alma mater’s largest donors.
[By the way Jim Nicholson also is a recipient the Horatio
Alger Award in 2000.]
Another Author in our Class – Mike Harpold
2/10/2014
As the past year has highlighted, we have a number of ‘mates
who have shifted their energies from professional pursuits
to the pursuits of sharing the benefits of life’s
experiences by means of the printed word. Mike
Harpold has joined the ranks of authors Bob
Bernard and Mike Eggleston among
others.
He has just published his first novel Jumping
The Line, released on Amazon.com.
During our 50th we
learned that Mike had served as an officer with the US
Border Patrol. During those years he met Cesar Chavez.
Later his own awareness and involvement with farm workers
during the grape strike led to his lifelong interest in
their plight. After continuing years of service as a police
advisor in Vietnam and then as an officer in the Immigration
and Naturalization Service, Mike retired in Ketchikan, AK
with his wife, Elaine and their daughters
Elizabeth and Sarah. Back to his book and its fictional
characters, Jumping the Line is an intriguingly
authentic novel looking at an issue historically important
and still debated. Mike treats his characters
compassionately without overlooking their mistakes. Try it;
you might discover a magnetic story that will grip you and
permit you to come away with a new understanding of farm
workers’ realities. By the way, check the internet and
Amazon.com for coming works of Mike E. and Bob.
Jack Dewar: The Tradition Goes On Sons and Grandson in the Hockey Rink
2/10/2014
Photo:
Jack Dewar, three of his four sons
(Jon, Chris and Doug) and grandson Peter.
Here is our ’61 Ice Hockey team Captain, Jack Dewar,
three of his four sons (Jon, Chris and Doug) and grandson
Peter.
They play in a North Carolina 40 and over league
that made an exception for Peter at age 18.
[With this
sparkling lineage was there a choice?] Peter is Chris
Dewar's son plus there is the USNA connection: Judy
& Jack share being Peter’s grandparents with
Karen & Dan
Schroeder, USNA ’61.Their daughter Chris is Chris Dewar’s
wife and mother of their son Peter.
Another coincidence to
recall is that
Dan went Army, was an engineer starting out
in the 82d,
serving there with many of our ‘mates, and then
on to a distinguished career retiring as the DCINC
Dan Halpin Visits for 17 October Class luncheon
2/10/2014
Along with catching up with our ‘mates at the Ft Myer
luncheon (photo below), Dan also
shared a special story featuring one of our ‘mates:
Lt. Joulwan Saves the Day
While I was still stationed with B Company 10th
Engineer Battalion in Bad Kissingen we traveled to the
Schweinfurt area to support training for one of the 3rd
Division Infantry units. We were located on the Main River
in the area of a sand excavation operation which had filled
with water and now formed a pond parallel to the river about
120 yards long and 40 yards in width.
B Company constructed
a floating foot bridge across the width of this water
feature to simulate a river crossing for the infantry
troops. They were in combat gear with heavy back packs
carrying their weapons.
The main objective of this exercise
was to familiarize the troops with the bobbing action of the
bridge as they moved quickly across this floating equipage
with their weapons at “high port.”
Stacy Bragg
and I had supervised the construction of the bridge and
insured that it was secure and operating as required.
Once
the training started, we observed the infantry in action
from a jeep while our engineer troops were on standby.
As the exercise progressed, we would witness the most
extraordinary example of boldness that I have ever seen. It
was late fall in Germany (November or December 1962) and,
although the day was bright and sunny, the temperature was
pretty nippy and we were bundled up appropriately.
About 25
minutes into the exercise, one trooper slipped or tripped
and fell forward catching himself on the narrow steel deck
(width approximately 1 meter) of the foot bridge while it
undulated slowly up and down with the motion of the water
surface.
While struggling to catch himself, he dropped his
M14 rifle and it flipped into the water and disappeared into
the murky pond.
Loss of a weapon in the U.S. Army Europe
at the time was considered to be the same as the loss or
disappearance of a Top Secret document.
The weapon would
have to be recovered or heads would roll.
Suddenly, one of the Infantry Lieutenants in charge
stopped the exercise, had everyone back off and moved at the
double to the area of the fallen trooper who by this time
was on his feet.
This lieutenant looked familiar, but I
didn’t recognize him at first.
Then Stacy said, “Hey, that
looks like George Joulwan – one of our
classmates.”
George was a South area
guy with whom I had
very limited contact.
I knew he had been a Corps Squad
athlete and that he was a football player who had played on
the 1958 USMA team which was ranked number 3 in the
country.
Captain America was on the scene.
George directed
the fallen trooper to move out the way, removed his own
boots and fatigue shirt and commenced diving into the dark
and muddy water of the pond.
Again, this was late fall and
the water temperature was frigid
( 55 to 60 degrees F)
No
one had checked the depth of the pond, but based on George’s
time below the surface it had to be 3 to 5 meters deep.
Down once – he surfaced for 20 seconds.
Down twice – back
to the surface.
Down a third time –and then a hand , an arm
and then a rifle emerged.
A cheer went up from the troopers
that sounded like the yell of the crowd for the winning Army
touchdown in an Army-Navy game!!!.
George was the hero of
the day, and his infantry troopers would have followed him
up the palisades of Omaha beach and into the German bunkers
on that day.
It was an extraordinary example of
leadership.
As we drove back to Kissingen after dismantling the
bridge, it was clear to me that certainly not I and very few
of my classmates would ever (even in a stellar career of
leading troops in the field) be able to top George’s bravado
in recovering that weapon.
George went on to collect a
chest full of decorations for heroism in Vietnam. He caught
the eye of a certain Colonel Haig ‘47 who later as General
Haig would be the Chief of Staff in President Nixon’s White
House.
George was a member of Haig’s White House team.
His
was a brilliant career and he would become the Supreme
Allied Commander, Europe (SACEUR) with four star rank- the
only Four Star General
our class
of which 28 members
achieved General Officer rank.
Hats off to George – a
leader who will never be forgotten by those 3rd Infantry
troopers on that cold and wintery day in Schweinfurt.
Photo
Left: Dan Halpin
during his mid 2013 visit to Bastogne recalled earlier times
in his own career as well as the soldiers who held the town,
denying the Germans access to the road net and thus earned
the honorific title, “Battered Bastards of Bastogne” seventy
years ago.
Photo Right:
Hank Kenny
holding Dan Halpin’s own addition to our
Class literature with his personal memoirs of Army life,
dedicated to his late wife Maria.
Dave, Good Going and Thanks for This Important News
2/10/2014
Dave Brooks
took on the job of reconnecting Ann Garretson Marshall with
our ‘mates.
Ann is the sister of
Ralph Garretson
[deceased 1987].
She is writing
“a memoir set in the
early '60s in which my brother Ralph Garretson and his
roommate Jack Sigg are key participants. Since they are no
longer here to offer first-person perspectives, I am trying
to connect with people who knew them and might have stories
or photos to share. I want this story to portray real people
going about life against the backdrop of the Cold War and
other movements of the '60s. In that vein, anecdotes of life
at West Point or on the German-Czech border and Landshut in
1963-4 would be most welcome.”
Since that time Ann has
updated her quest by noting that “I have managed to connect
with an officer in Jack's troop at Landshut in 1964, Tom
Fintel '62.
They were to speak later in the year.
She has
also connected with a “drag” who had known Ralph and “had a
delightful conversation getting reacquainted”
Ann has
continued: “Many thanks to each of you for getting back,
for your helpful suggestions (which put me on the direct
path to success), for the other memories you shared, and for
being such gentlemen and officers! My correspondence with
you resulted also in several pleasant micro-walks down
memory lane. Each "find" represents a painstaking pulling of
threads -- and great joy when a thread actually produces
another gem. In that vein ... I would be delighted to hear
from any of Ralph's or Jack's buddies or acquaintances who
might have memories or photos to share. Thank you all again
-- and if you ever get to Las Vegas, be sure to look us up!
You have friends here.” Ann welcomes you to contact her
directly at annmarshall42@yahoo.com
Speaking of events, 2013 and the coming years applaud our
‘mates who will celebrate their golden wedding
anniversaries…. Superlative congratulations go to all in
2013 and in advance, to those who are looking forward to
these grande observances in the coming year.
For 2013 among
them are Sue & Paul Devries, Barbara & Pete
Gleichenhaus, and Lonnie & Bob Kewley.
Photo:
Barbara & Pete Gleichenhaus celebrated their
Golden Wedding Anniversary in Hawaii
Past events of 2013 and coming attractions for 2014
2/10/2014
Mini reunions of 2013
included good times in Hawaii and Williamsburg for our
‘mates of L-2 and C-2 respectively along with the Golfing
Grads triumph in April to be followed by another this coming
April. Bridging 2013 and 2014 was the “Button &
Gary Hyde Longest Ever Continuously Running Mini
Reunion in Recorded History.” More on it next time;OK?
There are cruises in the sign up stage now:
18-28 Jun 14 --
Budapest to Bucharest Cruise; 30 Nov-7 Dec 14 -- Danube
River Christmas Markets Cruise These follow the August 2013
Portugal trip. Then, do mark your calendar for the 2014, the
social schedule for our ‘mates in the DC area; it will
include:
12 Feb 14 -- Class Luncheon, Campaign Room, Fort
Myer Officers Club
6 April 14 -- Sunday Brunch, Valley Forge Room, Fort Belvoir
Officers Club
14 May 14 -- Class Luncheon, Campaign Room, Fort Myer
Officers Club
16 Oct 14 -- Class Luncheon, Campaign Room, Fort Myer
Officers Club
Hank Kenny will speak at the February
event and speakers for May and October are TBA.
From the four corners of the globe, all are invited and
urged to be present for roll call.
Ailing But Improving
2/10/2014
Bill “The
Fastest Flying Finn” Mackie keeps up with the G-1
files and has been concerned with the health of
Serge Olive. Diane [she and Serge
met and married at Ft Benning in ‘67] has been updating Bill
allowing him to follow Serge’s progress. “Serge was in
the University of Maryland Medical Center Hospital in
Baltimore for a liver transplant surgery… he remained in the
hospital for a recovery period and has now returned home.”
Shane Olshansky has been in the hospital
for treatment of severe
respiratory problems. Son, Victor
‘97 has been providing updates and reports that Shane is in
the Florida VA hospital at Pembroke Pines.
John
Neiger is recovering ever so slowly from surgery.
Barbara explained that post operation
complications arose that have left John weak with limited
mobility. However, with Barbara’s dedicated and committed
support and John’s own tenacity, they were present and
accounted for at the Hyde’s in January.
Priscilla Hardiman let us know of Bob’s
serious accident: “Early Christmas 2013 morning Bob fell
down a flight of stairs here at our house.
… The
recuperation time is 8-12 weeks. ..
Once we get through all
of this we will reschedule the left knee surgery so 2014
will be the year of getting Bob back in shape. …We are truly
blessed that he did not die or is paralyzed.
Each day we
are getting better at some sort of schedule and getting
organized. …”
Farewells in 2013
2/10/2014
Bob Bernard informed us of Jane’s passing.
They wed in the Cadet Chapel 8 June 1961. “Jane
was a wonderful
wife, mother and companion for more than 52 years. She had a triple coronary
bypass in October, and was in a long term acute care facility when she
succumbed to a heart attack on 9 November 9.”
Services were at the
Newcomer Chapel in Beavercreek, Ohio on 15 November . Bob has suggested
considering donations to the Alliance for Lupus Research in remembrance of
Jane.
”Bob” Robert F. Zielinski, Jr.
It is with great sorrow and regret that I must notify you of the death of our
classmate, Bob Zielinski, on August 10, 2013 at Norton
Suburban Hospital, Louisville, KY, after a courageous 16-month battle with
cancer.
Bob is survived by his wife, Betty, his
mother Julia, daughter Julie Zielinski Gabis (Ed), son Rob (Amber), brothers
Richard (Lana) and Andy, and 3 grandchildren (Ben, Cameron, and Nicholas).
Bob was preceded in death by his father, Frank, and sister, Nancy. There was
an an Irish/Polish wake for Bob, and graveside services 19 August 2013 at the
Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Radcliff, KY. You may be in touch with Betty at
1303 Amberlin Lane, Louisville, KY.
In remembrance of Bob the
family suggests donation s to one of Bob's favorite theatres: Little Colonel
Players, 302 Mt Mercy Drive, Crestwood, KY
40014.
“Mike”Michael J. Brady
“Mike”Michael J. Brady
passed 7 November
2013 at the VA Hospital, Waco, TX, of pneumonia after a long
and courageous battle with Lewy Body disease. Surviving Mike
are is survived by his wife, Colleen;
daughter Debbie Anslem [Scott] and children Alissa, Zack,
Emma; daughter Laurie Kwo [David], stepdaughter Rayna; son
Scott [Elise] and children Miles and Ryane; daughter
Kathleen Phillips [Ric] and children Kaitlyn, Matthew, Evan;
son Mark Brady [Courtney] and children Greyson and Elly; his
twin sister, Marge Kerr and stepdaughter Dr. Jennifer Jones
[Michael] and children Oceane and Orion; stepdaughter Linday
O’Shea-Slosberg.
You may be in touch with Colleen at 58
Champions Lane, San Antonio, TX
78257-1294. Suggested
remembrance of Mike are donations to Lewy Body Dementia
Association, 912 Killian Hill Road, S.W., Lilburn, GA 30047
Six "Lost"Classmates Remembered
Ed Brown,
our tireless Class Secretary, has been working with the AOG
to update the non-grad section of the Register before its
next publication in 2015. He has uncovered six more of our
‘mates who did not graduate and have since passed on. While
he continues his search, be sure to let him know of any non
grads from ’61 especially those members of our Class who
have died and that we did not know about at the time of
their death.
Contact Ed at edbrown61@verizon.net
Karl H. Dixon, III
Company B-1
9 Jan 1940 - 6 Apr 2005
Place of Death: Greenwood, SC
Interment: TBD
George E. Kelly
Company E-1
10 Nov 1938 - ? Apr 1986
Place of Death: Monmouth, NJ
Interment: Greenwood Cemetery, Brielle, NJ
Anthony P. Moses
Company F-2
12 Jun 1939 - ? Mar 1987
Place of Death: Wilkes-Barre, PA
Interment: Saint Mary's Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre, PA
Joseph J. Powers, Jr.
Company I-2
24 Mar 1937 - 14 Apr 2012
Place of Death: North Falmouth, MA
Interment: North Falmouth Burying Ground, North Falmouth, MA
William E. Ringle
"Bill"
Company B-1
5 Apr 1938 - 14 Jun 2007
Place of Death: Stuart, FL
Interment: TBD
Peter J. Waters, Jr.
Company A-2
5 Oct 1939 - 10 Mar 2010
Place of Death: Willowbrook, IL
Interment: TBD
Bob, Mike, Karl, George, Tony, Joe, Bill, Peter__
Well done, Bill.
Be thou at peace
Please Visit Class Notes Archives
1/26/2014
Any Class Notes submitted prior to October
10, 2013 have been moved to the Archives. If you have a
contribution for this Class Notes page, please contact the
Scribe. Martin L. Ganderson at
mg_a62@yahoo.com
Honors and Recognition of Our Classmates For their Achievements
7/28/2013
The 21st of May 2013 was a picture perfect P-rade day on the
Plain. Present and accounted for and helping to fill the
bleachers were many of our ‘mates who had travelled from
near and far to recognize Lee Anderson for
his dedication and achievement that have made USMA a better
place. Following the Alumni Review that appeared more
spectacular than many of those present could recall, a
special reception “down the hill” at the Hotel Thayer
further honored Penny & Lee. There were
tributes to both and even a little gentle roasting. Tom Dyer
’67 and past AoG chairman detailed the generosity toward
West Point that Lee along with
Penny have demonstrated. Freed Lowrey ’67 added
light humor that also carried a message of Lee’s
loyalty to all things West Point. A unique honor bestowed
upon Lee was from the management of the
Hotel Thayer. As part of their remarkable rejuvenation of
this historic landmark, they have a project to name prime
guest suites in honor of noted graduates. So now,
Lee has a suite named for him. Inside one wall
displays photos and memorabilia that tell his life’s story.
[It’s worth a visit]. Below are photos of many of our ‘mates
who were present for this memorable day.
Top Right:
1961 - Lee Anderson received West Point's Distinguished
Graduate Award and also received Bruce Shroyer's
congratulations.
1961 Alumni Luncheon, Washington Hall -
Dawn & Bob Glass; John Kilkenny; Michele & George Kopcsak;
Chan Eiland; Jan & Rod Grannemann; John Grisoni [Terri not
pictured]; Mike Eiland.
1961 Alumni Luncheon, Washington Hall-
Ed Brown; Rod Grannemann; George Kopcsak; John Grisoni;
Over John’s shoulder, looks like Pat Carroll
or Al Vanderbush? [Yes, No, Maybe?];
Mike Eiland; the Commandant, Gail &
Dick Clarke’s son, Richard, ’84; Chuck
Hodell; John Kilkenny; Stan Conway-Clough; Dale Himes.
Left: 1961 Waiting for the P-rade, Alumni Review: Jim
Nicholson; Rod Grannemann; Chan & Mike Eiland; George
Kopcsak; Pat Carroll
Al Vanderbush: The Army Sports Hall of Fame Inducts a Champ
7/28/2013
Al Vanderbush III: The Army Sports Hall of
Fame has inducted Al who will be in the
company of the first American to walk in space, two football
All-Americans, a Heisman Trophy runner-up, an Army Athletic
Association Award winner, and two legendary coaches. The
selection committee described Al as an
administrator who also contributed as a multi-sport
athlete.
We especially recall Al as a
Dean’s List guy who helped a lot of our ‘mates on the “other
list”, as the “pride of Bergen County” and of course as our
1960 gridiron team co captain with Frank Gibson.
The Army Sports Hall of Fame will officially induct
Al and his new colleagues on 13 September 2013.
A
special plaque unveiling ceremony will be held in the Kenna
Hall of Army Sports inside Kimsey Athletic Center, with the
formal black-tie Hall of Fame Induction Banquet set for
Eisenhower Hall later that evening. These esteemed alumni
will be recognized during Army's football game against
Stanford the next day at Michie Stadium with a special
photograph and autograph session planned on Black Knights
Alley before the game.
There is a lot more, so be sure to
Read
full article on Al's Induction.
Also, take a
look at even more of our ‘mates who have earned recognition
and honors from the: Army Sports Hall of Fame:
Jon Aaronsohn ; Hall
of Fame of Parachuting:
LTC Henmar (Gabe) R. Gabriel
; OCS Hall of Fame: [No hyper links for ] John P.
Lawton and Clarence G. Matsuda;
Ranger Hall of Fame:
COL John P. Lawton ;
CPT Thomas W. Pusser;
BG Joseph S. Stringham.
Ham Evans
Inducted into the Sons of the American Revolution
7/28/2013
John Skillman,
president of the Tampa Chapter of the Sons of the American
Revolution was pleased to announce that on 18 May, he had
“the
pleasure of inducting our classmate Ham Evans into the Tampa
Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution.
Ham’s
revolutionary war ancestor was Guilford Evans, a Lieutenant
in the Rhode Island Militia. Ham is one of only 15% of SAR
members whose line to their patriot ancestor goes directly
up their surname line to a patriot of the same name. I would
welcome any other classmate into the SAR who can trace your
ancestry back to a patriot of the American Revolution. The
patriot need not have been in combat, but may have served
the cause of the revolution in another way. For example, my
4th great grandfather, also John Skillman, was a leather
tanner in New Jersey who gave sides of leather to the
Continental Army, for which the British burned his tannery
to the ground. This makes him a supporter of the revolution
and a patriot. Many of you whose ancestors arrived in this
country after the revolution may think you don’t have a
patriot ancestor. My mother’s great grandparents arrived
here in the 1830s from Germany and the 1840s from Ireland,
so I thought there was no patriot ancestor on her side.
However, one of her great grandfathers married a woman who
was descended from a Private in the Pennsylvania Militia. So
you need to shake your family tree to see who falls out,
particularly through marriages. Let me know if I can help in
any way.”The Sons of the American Revolution is the
leading male lineage society that perpetuates the ideals of
the war for independence. As an historical, educational, and
patriotic, non-profit corporation, it seeks to maintain and
expand the meaning of patriotism, respect for our national
symbols, the value of American citizenship, and the unifying
force of "e pluribus unum" that was created from the people
of many nations: one nation and one people.
Jay McCann's
Special Recognition by the Bell Air Country Club
7/28/2013
Jay McCann again has received recognition
and honors
for his selfless contributions to his community.
On 2 May 2013, at the Bel Air Country Club, CA,
members
arranged a special evening to honor Jay.
The event kicked
off with the UCLA cadets and the officer in charge of the
ROTC program, executing
Honor Guard ceremonies; following
was the master of ceremonies delivering Secretary of the
Army’s letter of personal greetings and the
AoG’s president
Bob Mc Clure ’76 also recognized Jay’s service sending his
message via a special video recording.
Our Coming Attractions
7/28/2013
16-25 August 2013 -- Portugal Cruise [Sold Out]
1-10 October 2013 -- L-2 Mini-Reunion in Maui
15-21 October 2013 -- B-1 Mini-Reunion
17 October 2013 -- DC Area Luncheon
23 November-1 December 13 -- Hawaii Mini-Reunion
23-28 January 2014—Orlando Mini
18-28 June 2014 -- Budapest to Bucharest Cruise [Check
ASAP for reservations]
2016—Fifty Fifth Reunion [Gary Hyde and Team are
working it]
P.S. Check our Class website for other details and of
other coming events.
Many other Class events have come and gone. For example,
January 2013 started off BIG with what has become “a
tradition”: Button & Gary Hyde’s warm up in
and around Orlando for the year ahead. As in past years [and
even now planning for 2014] they arranged for tours and
golf; fine dining and golf; lots of war-story time and golf;
and lots of golf. Without respect to specific scores, each
of our ‘mates found the courses challenging and worthy of
the skills and newest of exotic woods and irons. Tiger and
Rory would have been proud. Then too, later on in May the
Golfing Grads hit the links at a resort near Tampa [See
below] And as you read these Gary and Team
'mates, Bob Cairns , Gene
Witherspoon, Burke Mucho,
Phil Mallory, Joe Fishburne are
driving on with the planning for our 55th. So, be sure to
stay alert for more info via email, Class Page and possibly
a carrier pigeon or two. There have been a number of lower
key events as well such as Suzanne Nicholson’
arrangements to ring in Jim’s 75th with
cocktails, cake and champagne for an assemblage of some of
Jim’s colleagues and mentors from years
past along with roommate Mac Greeley. Later
in June they hosted a reception for Gerry & Pat
Carroll in part to give further recognition for
Pat’s extraordinary service to our Class,
raising the funds for our 50th year gift. Being together
seemed almost routine given that Gerry and
Suzanne grew up in Highland Falls.
Having to cancel their 6 March presentation due to the
“blizzardgedeon” threat in the DC region which shut down the
Federal government including Ft Myer, Paul DeVries
and Bill Florence, '60 undaunted, fulfilled their commitment
on 29 May 2013. So, after drinks and a bountiful Fort Myer
O’ Club buffet, they reviewed and discussed key elements and
provided analysis of the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, the
climactic confrontation of the war between the French and
Viet Minh. [PS & FYI: “blizzardgedeon” – Lots of bluster,
not much snow]
Golfing Grads in Florida, alphabetically: Tom Baird,
Bob Cairns, Chuck Chamberlin-associate from Texas A&M, Dick
Clarke and brother Dennis, Jim Connolly, Todd Counts, Joe
Fishburne, Bob Glass, Bill Griffiths, Ron Hannon with son
Mark '89, Jay Hartford, Hamp Hodges, Gary Hyde, Bob Kewley,
Jim Looram, Phil Mallory, Lou Murray-guest of Class, Don
Sawtelle, Dale Shipley with son Don, Bill Tobin, Paul
Vallely, Jack Veatch, Jerry White, Bill Williamson with sons
Scott and Tim, and Gene Witherspoon.
Here’s more on the 25th Annual Golfing Grads this past 17-21
April 13. The photo tells more of the story that took place
at the well regarded Innisbrook Resort near Tampa,FL It
provided its fields of green for the almost four days of
camaraderie and some serious play by more than 160 players
including thirty of our ‘mates plus sons and a brother. As
the “senior class” present, winning the trophy commemorating
the late Dan Wilson ’63 made the event all the more
significant and enjoyable. Our ‘mates recalled that Dan
worked tirelessly over the years to ensure the success of
Golfing Grads. Icing on the cake was Ron Hannon
and son Mark '89 reflecting on their times as the oldest and
youngest grads present. “They made us proud!” Plus, Mike
Sullivan '89 shared some of his experiences as the offensive
coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, rounding out an
“excellent” program. “A 3.0 Golfing Grads”! PS:
Stay tuned for the next Golfing Grads at Innisbrook 24-27
April 2014.
Brunch at Fort Belvoir
7/28/2013
Left: 1961:Brunch at Belvoir-a surprise visit from Betsy
& Scott Dillard who paused enroute to their new assignment.
Scott will lead a parish near Lexington, Va.
Right: 1961: Brunch at Belvoir-Bob Hardiman and Lew Anne &
Roger Cerasoli who drove from The Greenbrier in West
Virginia to be with our 'mates.
Bottom: 1961: Bob McConnell, Bill Mackie, Ed Brown. Over
their shoulders, catch a glimpse of Sue DeVries and Chan
Eiland. All agreed the brunch was a definite “do it again
event.”
As a warm up for the Class brunch at Ft Belvoir, 14 April,
LewAnne & Roger Cerasoli were hosted by
Millie & Todd Counts at their home in
Heritage Hunt.
Then the next morning they joined our ‘mates
who assembled for the Belvoir brunch that, by all accounts,
was the elegantly festive gathering that is becoming
evermore popular.
Our ‘mates in-charge of planning arranged
for a private dining room with flowing mimosas which in turn
guaranteed warm conversation reflecting emergence from
winter and moving ahead to summer time travels and other
ventures. For instance, Sue & Paul DeVries
were off to visit Normandy and the D-Day beaches with long
time buddies, Beth and JimArthur,
from their times in the 82d and other assignments. Later
they reported “successful landings” and visits to the
historic sites, memorable experiences. Ed Brown
brought us up to date on a number of Class matters.
In this
respect he reminded us recent deaths of Classmates and of
Lucky Downey,
Ron Hines
widow and Bill Wright’s wife
Rebecca.
He reminded us as well to keep several of
our slowly recovering ‘mates in our thoughts:
George
Kopcsak,
Ben Covington,
Joe
Stringham,
John Neiger.
After a
brief pause Ed went on to give an advance
“warning order” that the Hydes are in the
planning phase of Orlando Mini, 24-29 January 2014. Among
the others who relished this convivial assemblage were the
Cerasolis,
Counts, Lucy
Paone, Judy Kremer,
Chan
Eiland [Mike returned from TDY
later in April], Gail & Bob McConnell,
Karen & George Joulwan,
Rene & Bob
Hamilton, Rina & Ed Brown,
Estelle & Joe Clema, Millie & Todd Counts,
Tom Cuthbert,
Sue & Paul DeVries,
Betsy & Scott Dillard,
Marty
Ganderson, Gene Goodell,
Bob Hardiman, George Kopcsak,
Bob Rosenkranz,
Pat & Jack
Veatch,
Marty Walsh,
Kaye & Bill Williamson.
Again, Some of Our ‘Mates Have Passed On, So Before Closing Let Us Sound Taps and Recall….
7/28/2013
Clay Jones : On 9 May 2013.
He is survived
by his wife Mercy, their three children,
and six grandchildren. Clay retired from
the USAF and continued to serve through his accomplishments
in the aerospace industry. Clay’ s funeral
was 29 May at the St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Catholic Church
in Lomita, CA and burial was at the Green Hills Memorial
Park, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. Clay’s
family suggested that any memorial donations be made to the
American Cancer Society or UCLA Pancreatic Research for the
purpose of determining whether genetic markers, scans, or
certain risk factors can be found to help diagnose and treat
this disease.
Jim Carr : On 20 April 2013 in
Cadillac, MI
after a battle with cancer. Surviving Jim
are Judy, their son James (Jennifer) Carr
of Boulder, CO;daughter, Rachel (Wallace) Dalrymple,
Clarkston, MI five grandchildren: Andrew, Timothy and
Elizabeth Dalrymple and Leah and James Carr; sister,
Barbara (Lester) Overway of Cincinnati, OH; and brother in
law, James (Carol) Kumfer of Safety Harbor, FL.
There was a
graveside service at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte, MI
during the time of a summer family reunion.
You may be in
touch with Judy at 106 Doral Drive,
Cadillac, MI
49601.
Jim saw the irony in being found in Plebe
math. Yet after USMA, he earned a degree in math and
physics, going on to teaching in the public
schools.
Around 2003, Judy & Jim renewed ties with
our Class and A-2 thanks to Bobbie & Jim Blesse
who met them coincidentally while on the same tour of Machu
Pico.
Quinn Pearl: On 30 April 2013, in
Elizabethtown, KY.
Surviving are wife Sherry
and children, Tiffany Bell, Lyla Temple (David),
and Quinn III (Ashley); sister, Lanna Hardy; brother Nick;
grandchildren, Phoebe and Elizabeth Bell, Hadley and Graham
Pearl, and
Lucas and Katie Temple along with many nieces
and nephews.
Quinn’s burial was 6 May
2013 at Hebron Cemetery, Shepherdsville, KY.
You may be in
touch with Sherry at 2223 Blue Ball Church Road,
Elizabethtown, KY 42701.
Memorial donations may be made to
University of Louisville, Care of Trauma Institute, 530
South Jackson Street, Louisville, KY 40202.
Warren Watson : On 22 May 2013 at the
Golden Oaks Nursing Center in Enid, OK, after a courageous
battle with Parkinson's disease and Multiple System Atrophy.
Warren is survived by five daughters : Kim (John) Benson,
Pam (Ron) Campbell, Sally (Kent) Cotarelo, Becky (Ross)
Angell, and Cindy Scamardo; 13 grandchildren: Jeremy, Jesse,
and Julia Benson; Seth Campbell; Zach, Gabi, and Chase
Cotarelo; Nathan, Kyle, and Leah Angell; Dylan, Justin, and
Ryan Scamardo. There was a graveside service with military
honors for Warren, 28 May 2013 at the IOOF
Cemetery in Norman, OK, next to his parents and brother. You
may be in touch with his family thru Sally Cotarelo, 4005
Harpers Ferry, Enid, OK 73703. They have suggested that any
memorial donations be made to the West Point Association of
Graduates.
Read more of Jim, Clay, Quinn and
Warren in our Class 50 Year Book,
Fifty Years of Service 1961-2011 pages
138, 240, 303, 377
Before closing…… We should recall as
well the passing of Jim Blesse’s brother,
Major General [USAF-Ret] Frederick C. “Boots” Blesse ’45,
who passed on 31 October 2012 in Melbourne, FL. His cremated
remains were buried 22 March 2013 at Arlington with full
military honors.
After graduation, he was commissioned in
the U.S. Army Air Force. During the Korean War became a
double ace and the sixth-ranking U.S. jet ace, downing 10,
perhaps 11, enemy aircraft and damaging three others. He was
later awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for downing
two enemy jets during one mission in September 1952.
Well Done! Be
thou at peace…
Lee Anderson -
Distinguished Graduate, 2013
5/8/2013
Lee Anderson
will receive the Distinguished Graduate Award on
21 May
2013 at West Point. As the official announcement
reads, “Lee R. Anderson ’61 … served
three years in the U.S. Air Force before separating from the
service to help his ill father run the family business, a
small fire-protection service named APi. Over the course of
four decades, Anderson turned APi into a Forbes Top 400
company now operating at over 160 locations in all 50
states, Canada, and the United Kingdom. In addition to being
Chairman and CEO of the APi Group, Anderson is a
world-renowned leader of conservation programs—he is a
Heritage Member of Ducks Unlimited, a Golden Member of U.S.
Sportsmen’s Alliance, and a Founding Member of the
International SeaKeepers Society—and he is an extraordinary
philanthropist, giving generous gifts to numerous
institutions, including of course his alma mater.” We
remember too, that Penny and Lee provided the gift that has
enabled the establishment of the soccer center at Shea
Stadium. And, ‘way back, even before then, our ‘mates of the
First Regiment and A-Squad basketball thought of Lee as a
guy with a great future, and Lee has fulfilled that promise.
Congratulations, and well done, friend and ‘mate. Read more
about Lee and his family at
Lee R. Anderson, Sr. - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
1961 Remember when… L-R: Stu Sherard,
Pete Gleichenhaus,
Lee Anderson,
Lee Sager, Bob Strauss, Ron Hannon, Al DeJardin.
Middle Row: Coach George Hunter, PVT Tate Locke (Asst
Coach), Bob Loupe, Larry Crane, Dick Wilson, Mac
Compton, LTC George Rebh (Officer Rep),. Back Row:
Gordon Arbogast, Bob Foley, Buzz Rolfe. [Photo credit:
The Howitzer, 1961,
Athletics, edited by Berinato and
Xenos, page 212]
By the way, General Boonsrang Niumpradit ’71 Foreign
Cadet from Thailand is another of this year’s Distinguished
Graduates. He has had a special relationship with our Class
via Chan & Mike Eiland and some of our ‘mates with respect
to his assistance for many years in hosting the West Point
Society of Thailand Founders Day dinners and very
competitive golf outings. Prior to retiring in 2008 as the
26th Supreme Commander of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, “he
contributed immeasurably to peace, democracy, and education
in the Pacific Region.” He continues working within Thai
society to strengthen ethical values among its youth.
A Founders Day
Note and B-1 News
5/8/2013
Michele &
George Kopcsak want us to know that they attended
another enjoyable Founders Day Dinner at Heritage Hunt
in Gainesville, VA on 22 March. George also advises us
that “It was my first evening out since having a major
lumbar surgery on 4 March. Had four vertebrae fused
together. Michele says I'm now two inches taller. Further he
reminds us [for those who do not yet know] “Recovery time
sure is longer and more difficult as we get older!”
Importantly, he has been in touch with Lu Ann &
Roger Cerasoli regarding the next in the series of
B-1 Reunions, again at the Cerasoli’s at the Greenbrier in
White Sulphur Springs, WV. Plans are for the week of 15
October. Looks like there will another great turnout!
1961’s ladies: Founders Day Dinner at
Heritage Hunt Judy Kremer,Jan Hillier, Millie Counts,
Lucy Paone, Chan Eiland, Dawn Glass, Trish Buckner, Sharon
Goodell, Michele Kopcsak. Nancy Shearer was present as well
but somehow missed the photo.
1961’s gentlemen: Founders Day Dinner at
Heritage Hunt Todd Counts,Bob Glass, Cy Shearer,
Gene Goodell, Dick Buckner, Pat Hillier, George Kopcsak
Time and ‘Mates
Have Passed On, So Before Closing Let Us Sound Taps and
Recall….
5/8/2013
John J. Berinato: After a courageous battle
with esophageal cancer John passed on 26 March 2013 in
Brunswick, ME. He was cremated in a private ceremony 28
March and will be inurned at Arlington National Cemetery at
a date to be announced. John’s wife Ursula, six children,
and seven grandchildren survive him. His family wishes that
donations be made in John's memory to the Wounded Warrior
Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675. You may be in
touch with Ursula at 15 Melden Drive, Brunswick, ME
04011-9563.
Frank L. Hedstrom, Jr.: Following a
heart attack, Frank passed on 27 February 2013 at the
Overland Park Regional Medical Center, Lenexa, KS.
He entered with our Class but departed L-2 soon after.
Later he taught history at Wyandotte and Grandview High
Schools. His wife Carol and sisters, Sharon Kurtz
and Carol Sue Barbour, seven nephews, a niece and two great
nephews survive. Funeral services were 4 March and
interment was at Maple Hill Cemetery, Kansas City, KS.
William Ogden: Bill passed on 31 March 2013
in Wilmington, NC. Bill’s wife Gloria, four children and
four grandchildren survive. There was a Mass for Bill 8
April at Wilmington’s St Mark Roman Catholic Church followed
by graveside services at the Oleander Memorial Gardens. You
may make contributions to the St Mark Catholic Church
Tuition Assistance Program for St Mark Catholic School
students, 1011 Eastwood Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403 or the
American Parkinson Disease Association, Inc., Parkinson
Plaza, 135 Parkinson Ave, Staten Island, NY 10305-1425.
Paul
Franklin Vader Jr: After a fifteen year struggle
with Parkinson's disease Paul passed on 7 March 2013 in
Littleton, CO. Paul’s sister, Phyllis Weaver preceded him.
Mary Ann and their sons, Chris and Casey, two grandchildren,
and his sister Prudy Brett and brother Patrick survive Paul.
Graveside services were 13 March at Denver’s Fort Logan
National Cemetery. Donations may be made to the Parkinson's
Association of the Rockies at: 1325 S. Colorado Boulevard.,
Ste. 204B, Denver, CO 80222. You may be in touch with Mary
Ann at 6500 W. Mansfield Ave #56, Denver, CO 80235.
You may read more about John, Bill and Paul in our
Class book, Fifty Years of Service 1961-2011,
pages 117, 296 and 366 respectively. No further information
available for Frank.
Well Done! Be thou at peace…
'61 New Year
Update
2/23/2013
Greetings for the
new year of 2013!! Before we pause take a look back on 2012
and toast some of the highlights of that year past, let’s
give our warm congratulations to Gail & Dick Clarke
and family. Their son Richard ’84 is now the Commandant of
Cadets. He started off this new year by assuming command on
18 January as the 74th commandant. The change of command
ceremony was in Cullum Hall. At the time of his selection,
he was the deputy commanding general, 10th Mountain Div.
(Light). And, another round of 2012 congratulations:
Jim Nicholson’s nephew Mick ‘82 [son of
brother Jack ’56] assumed command of the 82d Airborne
Division, 4 October.
Now we can toast more past events of 2012 beginning with
our I-2 ‘mates who proclaimed their thanks to
Marilyn & Chuck Randolph for their outstanding
successes. They made possible the great time that was had
by each and every I-2 ‘mate present for this mini-reunion
at Balboa Island, CA, in October 2012. The verdict from one
I-2 ‘er was that “For our California reunion the weather
could not have been better and the reunion events arranged
by the Randolphs were nothing less than outstanding. The
cast of I-2 characters, in addition to gracious hosts
Marilyn & Chuck, included Trish & Dick
Buckner, Grace &Tom Cuthbert, Jackie & Hal Gaither,
Stephanie & Darius Gaskins, Jim Goldstine, Priscilla & Bob
Hardiman, Marianne & George Henderson, Ed Jones, Jack
McLaughlin.” Our I-2 ‘mates started their mini
reunions back in May 2000 in Williamsburg, VA and continued
the march with reunions in May 2005 at Eagle Lake WI, in
April 2008 at Huntsville, AL, and in September 2009 at
Myrtle Beach, SC.
I-2 reunion- October 2012: Back Row L-R: Jim
Goldstine, Chuck Randolph, Darius (Buck) Gaskins, Tom
Cuthbert, Jack McLaughlin, Dick Buckner, Ed Jones, Bob
Hardiman, Hal Gaither, George Henderson. Front Row L-R:
Marilyn Randolph, Stephanie Gaskins, Grace Cuthbert,
Priscilla Hardiman, Trish Buckner, Jackie Gaither, Marianne
Henderson
All
reports proclaimed that the September 2012 Mini-Reunion
Russian River Cruise was an “outstanding success”.
Connie & Larry Budge led sixteen of our ’mates and
wives plus twenty-four family and friends aboard the ship
in Moscow. Earlier under bright morning skies they toured
Moscow, traveled on Russia’s highly decorated and very
efficient metro (constructed in 1932) and concluded with a
visit to Red Square. They marveled at the architecture and
beauty of Bolshoi Theater and especially of St Basil’s
Cathedral (the oldest building in the square). Many of our
‘mates marveled that this was surreal standing in Red
Square when only 20 years ago it didn’t seem ever possible.
(Especially for those who had European assignments
during the Cold War)
During mid August, the Windsors, Ruth & Chuck
(that is), rolled out the red carpet for your scribe and
dear friend Paula during mid August 2012. Ruth & Chuck
retired to Guanajuato, Mexico in 2010 and love it. The town
has a critical mass of Gothic style cathedrals,
institutions of higher learning in the arts and sciences,
and five- star eateries side by side with mouth watering
“street food” that makes a visitor wanting more. Well over
500 years old, Guanajuato was the site of the beginnings of
the Mexican revolution. With these credentials, it was an
important stop during Pope Benedict’s North American trip
in March 2012. Plus Guanajuato has become the destination
for a lively expatriate community and Ruth & Chuck add
their rich experiences and gracious hospitality. One
example is that Chuck, in his capacity as an emeritus
Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army arranged for
five Cadets to visit during June 2012 as part of their
academic studies in Mexican culture.
The October sun shone brightly for Betsy &
John Goldtrap and Ginna &
Joe Fishburne and the mini reunion they organized
and hosted. All agreed that it was a pleasingly memorable
time of being together and that Charleston is a destination
of abundant traditions, history, and gracious hospitality.
Giving our ‘mates an intimate taste of that history, Joe put on his tour
guide attire to narrate a walking tour of the old walled city where still
stand the pre revolution powder magazine, Dock Street Theater, St. Michaels
Church and the Exchange Building where customs fees were collected in
colonial times.
More history became apparent during their visit to the
preserved remains of the Confederate submarine Hunley
which once plied the waters of Charleston harbor
before its fatal voyage in 1864. This time though
Charleston harbor served as the channel for the
Palmetto Breeze, a 50' catamaran to sail along
allowing our ‘mates up-close inspections of Ft Sumter and
the Charleston battery and, adding to those views of the
past were some frolicking dolphins that seemed to be giving
an impromptu welcoming performance. What’s a reunion
without some serious dining? In this instance dinner at the
Mt. Pleasant Boat Club on Goldbug Island took on the theme
of another USMA file, Edgar Allen Poe x-1834 which made for
interesting conversation. The former officer’s club of the
old Ft. Moultrie seacoast defense fortification served as
the mess for the farewell evening meal that was punctuated
by the panorama of Charleston Harbor swirling waters
flowing into the Atlantic Ocean. Capping the entire
Charleston excursion was the perfect weather the Fishburnes
and Goldtraps had promised. Be sure to browse through the
album photos the names and faces of our ‘mates who gathered
for this adventure on our Class page.
A busy October found Sylvia & Jay Olejniczak
basking in what was most likely the nicest weather in years
on Cape Cod. They spent time visiting favorite restaurants,
doing a “bit” of shopping, walking the beach and enjoying
listening to the waves. That was in contrast to prior years
of at least one howling, stormy night—“almost like being at
sea on a sail boat.”
Wrapping up 2012 was one of the many Army-Navy parties,
this one being A-2’s annual gathering that Bobbie &
Jim Blesse hosted at their waterfront “cottage” in
Smithfield, VA. The consensus was that the Army Team played
well and we’ll “wait’ll next year”. There was even greater
consensus that the Blesses planned and executed an
otherwise flawless weekend. Following libations at their
home, they led everyone to the annual boat illumination
where Bobbie & Jim proudly exhibited their splendid craft.
Later in the evening and on game day, there were
overwhelming quantities of food, drink, and most of all
convivial conversation, deepening friendships and looking
forward to the next episode in A-2 reunions. By the way,
Jim made sure we all learned of Smithfield’s fame for its
smoked hams as well as its early American and Virginia
history to include forts dating back to the Revolutionary
War and Civil War periods plus a Cold War Nike missile site
that is now a county park.
December 2012-Army-Navy party at Blesse’s:
Steve Butkus (USNA – 71), Carol Butkus, Hank Kenny,
George Christian USNA – 64), Ann Christian,
Mary Frances Kenny, Bob McConnell, Gale McConnell,
Jack Zimmerman, Lucy Paone, John Skillman, Ellie Skillman,
Roger Middlesteadt, Madeline Middlesteadt, Bobbie Blesse,
Jim Blesse, Paul DeVries, and Sue DeVries.
Finally, as we review 2012, it is with the lasting
memories of our ‘mates who passed on, the latest one being
Bill Hathaway, 1 November at his home in
Amherst, VA. Surviving Bill are Lyl and
their two children, and five grandchildren. Bill's funeral
service took place 15 November 2012, at Ascension Episcopal
Church in Amherst. You may be in touch with Lyl at 125
Garland Avenue, Amherst, VA 24521. Before Bill were and
Red Zaldo, 1 May; Tom Myerchin,
15 May; Roger Obermeier, 19 June;
Jon Nitkowski, 28 Jul; Bert
Custer, 4 Sep; Joe Stewart, 12
Sep and Glenn Peters, Connie Leinbach,
Bob Frix who joined our other fallen
‘mates in Arlington National Cemetery on 19 Jan, 2 Mar, 11
May 2012 respectively.
Be sure to view past notices of our fallen ‘mates; you
can add your personal testimonials using this link which is
also hyperlinked on our Class page. Also, our understanding
is that the AoG data files your remarks in each grads
Cullum file.
Judi & Larry Butterworth’s grand daughter,
Alexis Wineman, won the title of Miss Montana in June 2012.
During the week of 8-12 January 2013 she will compete in the
Miss America Pageant in Las Vegas! At age 18, Alexis will be
the youngest of all 50 candidates. On top of this
accomplishment, Alexis has won admission to the University
of Montana. However, she will delay entry in order to honor
the Montana pageant officials’ request to take on the Miss
Montana public appearances connected with her new title.
Once in college Alexis plans to study Art Therapy. Along
with this excitement, in August, the Butterworths hosted
Ruth & Gary Lord who had paused in their travels to
visit. Without missing a beat, Judi & Larry treated them to
the traditional Montana welcome of lots of good cheer and
tours to the grand sites of the Big Sky state. Well rested
and prepped, Ruth & Gary shouldered their rucksacks and
continued northward for the grandeur of Canada’s Banff and
Lake Louise.
Photo Left Top: Alexis Wineman, Judi & Larry
Butterworth’s grand daughter and Miss Montana, 2012
Photo Right Top: June 2012:The proud grandparents,
Judi & Larry Butterworth andgrand daughter
Photo Left Bottom: Aug 2012: “The visit was too
short” Judi Butterworth and Ruth
Lord
Photo Right Bottom: Aug 2012: “ …then it was onward
to Canada…” Gary Lord and Larry Butterworth
Alpha Deuce
Leads Adventures
11/9/2012
.....First to
Tuscany...
11/9/2012
A squad of A-2 files served as point for an elegant Italian
adventure, 19-26 May 2012. They had converged upon their
objective from several departure points: the
DeVries
and Blesses were already in Italy via
space-A; the McConnells stepped off from
London where they had been visiting their daughter and
son-in-law; the Kennys [OPCON to A-2] had
arrived in Italy earlier; while the others flew directly to
Rome. Then, the ten A-2 files plus Marge & John
McInerney ’59 moved smartly onward to Monte
Argentario, a peninsula in the southwest corner of Tuscany
between Rome and Pisa where they reconstituted themselves,
preparing for a splendid week in their private villa. They
made jaunts to the peninsula, the near-by island of Giglio
(the cruise ship Costa Concordia sank there in
January 2012 and is still in place), the medieval town of
Pitigliano, Etruscan burial grounds and more. There were
feastings upon classic Italian cuisine, quaffing of an
infinite flow of libations from the fruit of the vine, and
being pampered by the dedicated and indulgent villa staff!
[Were they ever!] And as Bob narrated,
“We rented the
place at 1/3 the normal price. Besides the resident
caretaker couple, the owner sent up one of his staff from
Rome (a woman who spoke English) so we would not have a
language problem. Then, this trio fixed breakfast every
morning, lunch (if we were there), a couple of dinners, and
just overall took care of us.” Bob particularly noted
that “we learned so many things. What is the difference
between a Tuscan and an Etruscan? E-truscans had cell
phones!!” [It must have been the wine!!!]
Photo
Left Top: May 2012: A minor feasting at a secure undisclosed
Italian location-Clockwise: DeVries, Blesse, Lucy Paone,
Bobbie Blesse, Sue DeVries, Marge McInerney, Mary Francis
Kenney, Gail McConnell, Zimmerman)
Photo Right Top: May 2012: (l to r back row) Marie
[staff] and Delores [staff], Jim & Bobbie Blesse, Jack
Zimmerman, Marge & John McInerney ’59, Gale McConnell, Lucy
Paone, Sue & Paul DeVries, Hank & Mary Francis Kenney (front
row) Bob McConnell, [Stefano staff] )
Photo Middle Top: May 2012: That’s DeVries inspecting
the villa swimming pool.
Photo Middle Top: May 2012: Passing Giglio island and
the cruise ship Costa Concordia which tragically sank there,
Jan 2012
Photo Left Bottom: May 2012: The peninsula harbor in
the southwest corner of Tuscany)
Photo Right Bottom: May 2012: The A-2 castle:
Somewhere hidden behind the mute walls of these ancient
dwellings stands A-2’s villa)
… And Next There
Was the South Dakota Adventure
11/9/2012
1961 Sep 2012: A-2 mini-reunion in Rapid
City-Standing: Sue DeVries, Bill Seltz, Joe & Sandy
Stringham, Paul DeVries, Lois Seltz, Connie Matsuda, Bobbie
& Jim Blesse, Clancy Matsuda, Betsy Alexander, Georgann
Cain, Jack Zimmerman, and Bob Cain. Kneeling: Steve
Alexander.
In September 2012, Connie & Clancy Matsuda
hosted a fantastic A-2 mini reunion in Rapid City, SD.
Joining in were Betsy Alexander and son
Steve (an A-2 Honorary member), Bobbie & Jim Blesse,
Georgann & Bob Cain, Sue & Paul DeVries, Lois & Bill Seltz,
Sandy & Joe Stringham, and Jack Zimmerman.
The Reunion was superbly planned and executed by the
Matsudas and offered great flexibility to accommodate the
whims of all. The pace was brisk and fun - - from the
Welcome Dinner in the historic Alex Johnson Hotel, seeing
the Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse memorials, an exciting
Buffalo Safari Jeep ride to Custer State Park, visiting
Deadwood and “meeting” Wild Bill Hickok, and the memorable
Farewell Dinner - - where Jack Zimmerman volunteered to host
A-2’s next Mini in Charleston, SC.
P.S.
Clancy’s initiative and arrangements became so important to
the Rapid City community that the mayor insisted upon
recognizing the visit with a letter of thanks to him and the
A-2 contingent. (See the letter in the photo album)
Sep 2012:
Rapid City mayor’s letter of thanks to Clancy Matsuda.
Second Acts (and continuing
stories)
10/9/2012
Our
‘mates continue to march toward exciting achievements
and contributions.
10/9/2012
For instance
Ken has been sculpting for many years
and exhibits regularly in Boston. Most recently in May
his works were part of a gallery presentation and dealt
with “variations on an ancient theme”, war and the face
of battle. His works were limited editions of cast
bronze, crystal, aluminum and paper in familiar forms,
some that call to mind “steel pots.” The form and shape
of each piece intended to focus “ attention on some
facets of that toll of war, linking Improvised Explosive
Devices (IEDs), to concussive injury (TBI), to
trepanation, to tinnitus are real. The toll is real.”
Ken has donated portions of the proceeds from his
exhibition to the Fisher House Foundation:
www.fisherhouse.org.
Mike
Eggleston’s Next Book
10/9/2012
Moving forward
100 years from his Civil War opus, Mike
is now digging in to Vietnam. His topic for his latest
work will be our connections to the American experience
in Vietnam. Specifically he will examine Vietnamization:
how we transferred the war to the South Vietnamese
during 1970-1972. His really big push will be to get us
as Classmates to participate, sharing our own
recollections. Mike has noted “We all have recollections
that deserve preservation for us and for history” and
that “Anything that [we] have to say about any phase of
the war is relevant.” Mike will do the weaving of our
input into a fabric that tells the story. Given that
this opportunity grabs you, email Mike
<maeggleston@comcast.net>. He’ll get the details to you
and promises extra tenths for candor and added thoughts.
Before
Closing Let Us Sound Taps and Recall...
Joe
Stewart: 12 Sep 12 at Eastern Long Island
Hospital, Greenport, NY
Joe Stewart: of complications of a
stroke after a courageous, multi-year battle with
cancer. Joe is survived by his wife Marilynn;
two daughters, Pamela Telenko and Nancy Stewart; a son,
Michael; and a granddaughter, Viv Daniel. Joe’s family
encourages remembering him through donations to the
Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS
66675. You may be in touch with Marilynn at 355 Cedar
Drive, Southold, NY 11971
Bert H. Custer:4 Sep 12 in Renton,
WA.
Bert H. Custer:grew up in Renton, was
an outstanding high school student and athlete and
attended the University of Washington for two years.
Among Bert’s career achievement were two tours in
Vietnam, service as General's Aide, and a master's in
math. After retiring in 1986, Bert returned to Renton
and, until his health began to fail, he taught
trigonometry and calculus. In addition to
Shirley [they celebrated 46 years of marriage
on 7 August], surviving Bert are son Derek Smith of NYC,
grand-daughter Savannah Migliuri, brother Don (Loraine),
sisters Gina Custer and Lia (Steve) Reardon, and nieces
Rose, Ericka and Ingrid Custer, Rachel and Hilary
Grabner, and nephews Richard, Tim, and Kjell Custer. His
brother Alec and sister-in-law Barbara and sister
Maribeth Zwick preceded Bert in death. You may be in
touch with Shirley at 714 Cedar Avenue South, Renton, WA
98507-6044.
Jon Nitkowski: 28 Jul 2012 at home
in Loudon, TN
Jon Nitkowski: after a courageous
battle with pancreatic cancer, coronary artery disease,
and diabetes. Surviving Jon are Mary
and their son Steve. Mary informed us that “Jon had been
resting comfortable at home with the great help from UT
Hospice care and help from the VA hospice. But the
combination of cancer, heart disease and diabetes and
then the sadness in his heart for their daughter who
passed on in Jun 2012 just became an insurmountably
battle in the end. Both Jon and I were so fortunate to
have his son Steve at our side. In addition to the 4
years that Jon was a cadet, there are fond family
memories from the years that Jon taught leadership at
the Academy. In many ways Jon remains the leader of
men/women...his leadership went beyond the field of
battle and has been felt by many on the field of life. I
would like to thank the many that have taken the time to
convey to Jon this past year how he had impacted their
values and how he had guided them for the better on how
they approached life. Those messages always seem to have
come at a time his spirits were low and seemed to bring
him strength to fight another day. This has been quite a
year for both Jon and I, as many have gathered from my
updates. We battled this disease as we lived our life -
as a team.” Mary also thanks A-1 company mate
Mick and Coralinn Maus for their special visit
and she informed us that there will be a full honors
funeral and the service the Old Cadet Chapel at 1:30 PM,
19 Nov. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jon's
memory may be sent to the American Cancer Society, P.O.
Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718 or Johns Hopkins
Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, 100 North Charles Street,
Suite 234, Baltimore, MD 21201. You may be in touch with
Mary at 310 Kiyuga Way, Loudon, TN 37774-2706.
Mateele Rittgers: Courtney’s beloved
wife passed away 26 Jul 2012 in El Paso, Texas. “She had
been magnificent in fighting ovarian cancer for nearly 3
years. Our children, Trenton and Rana, and I are
grief-stricken, but we are strengthened by the knowledge
that our classmates' prayers accompany her as her spirit
is released to larger life. She did not wish a funeral
but asked that her remains be cremated and her ashes
spread in a special place.” Mateele, a serving TWA
flight attendant and Corkie married 10 Feb 1962 and were
the proud grandparents of seven. You may be in touch
with Corkie at 10105 Monaco Drive, El Paso, TX
79925-6224.
Okja & Bill Mackie have suffered the
devastating death of their daughter Sophia Travis.
She died of a yet to be determined heart condition, 19
Sep 2012 in Bloomington, IN where she, husband Greg, and
son Finn [4 yo] have resided. Our heartfelt sympathies
go to Okja & Bill, proud parents of this daughter, wife,
mother, and community pillar.
….and for each of the departed, Well
done! Be thou at peace.
G-1 at
Chancellorsville
7/31/2012
G-1 at Chancellorsville – Mackie, Solomon, Halpin
A-1 Scottsdale &
Grand Canyon
7/31/2012
A-1 Scottsdale & Grand Canyon - Muffin Vallely and Mick
Maus
L-2 L.A. Reunion
7/31/2012
L-2 L.A. Reunion: Play the Game – Who are the Newbies in
the picture?
L-2 Mucho, Biddinger, Lynch – toasting a perfect
day…doesn’t get better!
L2 Dining Out in L.A.: Tasty and Hot…Your turn to play
the game of Name Our ‘Mates
L-2 L.A. : And the cookies were Second to None as well
L-2 L.A. Reunion - Smile for the Camera
Tampa Founders
Day
7/31/2012
Tampa Founders Day – Anne & Ham Evans and Eloise & Dale
Shipley
Tampa Founders Day – Evans, Shipley, Rausch
Tampa Founders Day – George Hricz and MaryAnn DaVoli
At the My Son ruins where the Champa royalty hid from
invasions from the North and South
The Veatches –
Tea and Serenade at Village near Hanoi
7/31/2012
The Veatches – tea and serenade at village near Hanoi,
'61 Class Notes for July 2012
7/19/2012
Greetings again; here’s another verse to the mid
year chapter of our Class notes
A first reunion for Loose Deuce, with more to come
The
first ever L-2 Class of ’61 mini-reunion was held on
24-27 May 2012 in Los Angeles, CA. Burke Mucho,
Dick Knoblock and Sandy Shapiro, Burke’s
significant other, planned and coordinated all the
activities, which included four dinners and then
trips to the Getty Museum, Santa Monica, the Reagan
Library, Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive, and a bus
tour of Los Angeles. The weather was just superb and
California sunny skies were the norm of the day. Our
lodging was a super hotel, the “LUXE Hotel on Sunset
Boulevard” nearby the Getty Museum in West Los
Angeles. The hospitality suite bid welcome daily for
all and was duly stocked with an abundance of adult
beverages, to include of course, fine California
wines. Gatherings there were quite lively. And, of
course, the end of each day’s activities found the
room once again occupied by willing enthusiasts. The
years just melted away, and the tales of derring-do
seem to grow somewhat bigger as time continues to
pass. There were also some incidents that were
revealed that most of us didn’t know about. Talk
about “sleepers”!! A great time was had by all and
we are already planning for the next L-2 reunion in
Maui, Hawaii in October 2013, to be hosted by
Carol & Bob Dunning. Those attending this
reunion were Vicki & Dave Biddinger, Judy & Jack
Campbell, Carol & Bob Dunning, LaVerne & Jim Jenz,
Dick Knoblock, Jim Lynch, Kitty & Denny Lenhart,
Burke Mucho & Sandy Shapiro, Ashley & Hank Rennagel,
Ted Vander Els, Joe Watt, and Pat & Woodie Woodward.
We were also joined for the Los Angeles bus tour by
B-1’s Jay McCann and C-2’s Barbara & Jack
Nevins. (Photos: Air Force One and the L-2
crew, May 2012: Denny Lenhart, Ted Vander Els,
Woodie Woodward, Dave Biddinger; Bob Dunning, Jim
Jenz , Joe Watt; Burke Mucho, Jack Campbell, Jim
Lynch.
…and before that was the A-1 reunion
Company
A-1 ‘mates gathered in Scottsdale, AZ, 1-3 April
2012 to tell tall tales, to eat great food, and to
embrace the open land and sky of the southwest.
Enjoying it all were Penny & Lee Anderson, Joan &
Lynn Bender, Heather & Rod Cameron, Bruce Dalgleish
(Sandra was at “sick call”), Quincy Holton,
Mercy & Clay Jones, Coralinn & Mick Maus (the
planners), Bruce Seidel (Jan was needed at
home), Patty & Phil Smith, Bill Williamson & Kaye
Allen, E-1’s Muffin & Paul Vallely and
K-1’s Nick Vay. The Smiths opened their
beautiful home the first two evenings and on the
last night, the flankers feasted upon a corral
cookout under the stars with cowboy hats and
bandanas. Ubiquitous cell phones rang up some AWOL
company mates: Sam Wilder who had a knee
operation go bad and Jon Nitkowski who is
battling cancer. Nick Vay expanded by noting that he
was here in “flanker land, abandoned by a fellow
runt (Gary Lord who was also invited) to
suffer in a world populated by flankers.” [Nick
added] “the suffering was most enjoyable, but then
again I have always been a masochist. However, let
me recount one significant event amongst many of the
two evenings and the one afternoon in Flanker land.
Upon arrival at Phil's house and looking through the
beautiful glass door I noticed all of the Flanker's
and their ladies seated, enjoying a conversation and
sipping on their drinks. Upon our entry, as one
would expect, they all rose to great us. Well it was
all downhill from then on. They never once sat down
for the rest of the evening. I am currently nearing
the end of the second tube of Ben Gay. Hopefully the
neck will recover.” (Photo: Paul Vallely, Bruce
Seidel, Phil Smith, Lynn Bender)
A report from the USMA Prep School alums
(Photo:
From Ed Brown, Twelve guys left to right: Ed Brown,
Clancy Matsuda, Ed Putman (went to USAFA but did not
graduate), Ken Meissner, Gabe Gabriel, J. B. Taylor,
Bill Reno, Frenchy Hebert, John Grisoni, John
Kilkenny, Bob Mitchell, and John Lawton – and, at
the grand soiree but not pictured, spouses: Rina
Brown, Susie Gabriel, Teri Grisoni, Beverly Hebert,
Connie Matsuda, Rachel Meissner, Patricia Putman,
LuAnn Reno, and Sally Taylor. The active duty
officers are LTC Mike Rounds, USMAPS Deputy
Commandant and COL Tyge Rugenstein, USMAPS
Commandant)
Earlier
Ed Brown reported that during 18-21 April
2012 as part of a 55th year reunion,
twelve alumni gathered to remember their fallen
fellow “cadet candidates” and to tour the new USMAPS
facility at West Point where they listened to the
commandant, and lunched with cadet candidates. “It
is interesting to note that the cadet candidates
that enter West Point will suffer a significant
decrease in their quality of life -- the USMAPS
cadet candidates are in 2+2 barracks rooms that are
air conditioned!! The athletic facilities are first
class with separate football, lacrosse, and soccer
fields and a running track. The weight room is fully
equipped. Ken Meissner whipped off 15
pull-ups after lunch to put us all to shame. After
the visit, we paid tribute to our six USMAPS who are
buried at the West Point cemetery -- Fred
Daniloff, Gordon Downey, Bruce Holmberg, Ed Lardin
(died as a cadet in Nov 57), Jim Raynis, and Scooter
Wildermuth. We visited the Warfighting
Simulation Center, an educational laboratory for
cadet application of ground maneuver warfare (theory
to practice) that introduces cadets to state of the
art military information technology and simulation.
[Check out
http://www.usma.edu/dmi/warcen.htm]
Interesting USMAPS '57 facts: First Captain − Ron
Hannon; General Officers – Bill Reno, Rusty
Dyer, Bob Mitchell (medically disqualified but
ended up being the Adjutant General of Indiana),
J. B. Taylor, Tom Moore (USMA '62);
Distinguished Service Cross – John Lawton, Jim
Scott; Ranger Hall of Fame − John Lawton;
Infantry OCS Hall of Fame – John Lawton, Clancy
Matsuda, Bill Jones (did not enter)”
The Solomons host lunch for the Mackies, Sollohubs,
and Halpin
Dan
(Photo:Meal time at the Solomons: Mackies,
Sollohubs, and Dan Halpin with grandson, Alan)
Halpin,
grandson Alan, Okja & TFF [that’s Bill Mackie,
The Fastest Flying Finn] and Sandee & Chuck Sollohub
relaxed for the noon meal at Mary Jane &
Johnny Solomon’s home in Fawn Lake, where the
Sollohubs live too, near Fredericksburg, VA, 9 May
12. To work off a few calories they toured the
nearby Chancellorsville Battlefield (the Wilderness)
where the Park Ranger guide described the friendly
fire situation that fatally wounded Stonewall
Jackson. It was a South Carolina unit that mistook
him and his party for Union forces. [There was a
review of our West Point Atlas to confirm the facts]
Later Dan added:
Johnny is doing great!!! He is playing the piano and
keyboards with gusto and enjoys playing a lot of
golf with Mary Jane.
Sylvia & Jay Olejniczak have returned to Durham
The Olejniczaks have lighted at their new
home [close by their former home from many years
ago] in Durham, NC. Jay reports that he has helped
AoG create a “timeline for the AOG from 1869 to the
present” and then prepared an article about the
various uses of Cullum Hall over the years. The
ballroom, where once we waltzed with our ‘mates; now
emits different music as the site for a simulated
M-16 and M-60 range that includes visual projections
of “bad guys”. The range can handle an Infantry
squad at a time and provides them laptops for
various war games and other simulations. The old AOG
offices on the lower level now belong to various
cadet clubs. [Who recalls the number of lights in
Cullum Hall?] Jay is still “a bit involved and has
edited memorial articles for the next (probably
last) printed issue of TAPS [now in the USPS mail]
to all former subscribers to ASSEMBLY (at no
additional cost) plus any who did not subscribe to
the last year of ASSEMBLY but want to receive the
last printed TAPS in 2012. Meanwhile, Sylvia & Jay
are enjoying retirement with trips to Myrtle Beach
and Williamsburg. Not ready yet for absolute
retirement, Jay is open to “a job teaching writing
or editing manuscripts.” Any suggestions, ‘mates?
Mike Eggleston, historian and author has published
The White Man’s Fight
An
important read and addition to the body of knowledge
of African American roles and contributions during
the Civil War. The Battle of Nashville, December
1864 serves as the focal point for presenting facts
and personalized narratives that are timely during
observances of the Civil War 150 years afterwards.
(Photo: Book cover of Mike Eggleston’s latest
work)
Class Committee meeting
The home of Dawn & Bob Glass was the
comfortable setting for the Class committee meeting
28 Apr 12. Pat & Bruce Shroyer had driven
down from NY so Bruce could discuss first hand the
continuing work [and cost] of maintaining
Reconciliation Plaza. FYI: In case you have not yet
done so, read over the synopsis of the committee’s
discussions posted on our Class web site. There are
several topics including Class minis and Lucy
Paone’s service to maintain communications with
class widows.
Mimi & David Brooks “on the road again”
“Time does not stand still but I seem to do so. We
were at the lake and had been there since Tuesday.
Today we flew to Rapid City, SD. Seems our families
are on the move this summer and we are not quite
ready for them. Todd retired in Germany in late May
with 26 years of service. They will return to the
states and have yet to determine where they will
alight. Todd thinks he may go to law school.
Acceptance may help determine where they may go.
Anne and Steve have a new assignment in
Charlottesville, VA where he will be the AFROTC
commander. They wanted us to keep their kids while
they go house hunting. That's why we are here now. …
What we do know is that we will be called upon to
help with logistics. … I had not thought this out
very well but we will have to be ready. Cheers to
all, David” [An update, David?]
On the roads, rivers, and canals: the Eilands lead
tour to Vietnam and beyond
(Photos:The Vietnam tour paused for Founders Day in
Bangkok: Rod Grannemann, Chan & Mike Eiland,
Millie & Todd Counts, Michele & George Kopcsak)
(Photos:
Ham
Evans, Karen & Mike Urette, Bobbi & Don Lionetti,
George Hricz & MaryAnn DaVoli,, Joan & Frank Rausch,
Eloise & Dale Shipley)
The
Palma Ceia Golf Club provided the elegant setting
for more than one hundred grads plus O.A.O.’s and
guests. Our ‘mates at the dinner were Anne & Ham
Evans, Karen & Mike Urette, Bobbi & Don Lionetti,
George Hricz & MaryAnn DiVoli, Joan & Frank Rausch,
Eloise & Dale Shipley, and your Scribe
and Paula Barrie.
Back on 15 April 2012 there was a “Big brunch at Ft
Belvoir”
A grand time was had by all, but no photo ops of:
Roseann & Jon Aaronsohn; Rina& Ed Brown; Trish &
Dick Buckner; Sue DeVries; Dawn & Bob Dawn Glass;
Nicole& Bob Hamilton; Priscilla & Bob Hardiman; Mary
Frances & Hank Kenny; Judy Kremer; Denise & Barney
Legge; Okja & Bill Mackie; LuAnn & Bill Reno; Bob
Rosenkranz; Mary Jane & John Solomon; Pat & Jack
Veatch; and Jack Zimmerman.
However, go to the Class Notes Album for more pix
from reunions and tours.
Let’s Adjust Our Notes Format
6/27/2012
After some communications among our ‘mates and the
folks who upload the notes to the AoG site, let’s
speed up the cycle. Doing so will give you cause to
check in more often and the content will be shorter
and focused. There will be opportunity for more pix
too. So, with that in mind, this update will attend
to remembering our ‘mates who have fallen in recent
months: Red Zaldo, Lyn Goldstine, Jim’s wife,
Bob Frix, Roger Obermeier, Tom Myerchin, and
“Sonny” Dubose. Following this remembrance, the
next update will describe travel to Vietnam, mini
reunions, and news of our ‘mates hither and yon.
Be Thou at Peace
6/27/2012
Martin Zaldo, best known as Red, passes 1 May 2012
in Newport Beach, CA
Red
fought the hard fight and he did it well with style
and grace. That was his life, doing it well and
coming out the winner. Hopefully there will be
agreement that even in this fight with a different
outcome, Red still comes out on top! Surviving are
Julie; their children, Patrick and Kelly;
their daughter-in-law, Rachael; granddaughters,
Madison and Parker; and his brother, Bill,
USMA '59. Donations in Red's memory may be made to:
Army Baseball, Attn: Coach Joe Sottolano, West
Point, NY 10996, payable to “Army Athletic
Association, from Friends of Army Baseball in memory
of Martin[Red] Zaldo, 61”; National Brain Tumor
Society, 22 Battery Street #612, San Francisco, CA
94111; Osteogenisis Imperfecta Foundation, 804 W
Diamond Avenue, #210, Gaithersburg, MD 20878.
[See Red’s bio, page 395, Class Book].
Lyn Goldstine, Jim’s O.A.O for fifty one years
We learned with regret and sorrow of the passing of
Jim Goldstine’s wife Lyn, 13 April 2012, of
terminal kidney failure. Surviving are their
daughters, Gigi and Krista, and their families,
including seven grandchildren. Sadly, Lyn missed the
birth of their great grandson at the end of May. Lyn
and Jim first dated in June 1958 and then married 10
June 1961. A truly dedicated Army wife, Lyn had two
tours in Germany and then raised the family alone
during Jim's two tours in Viet Nam. Lyn was a leader
in the transplant community having received two
awards for outstanding service during the nearly
eighteen years she was involved. Lyn died quietly in
her sleep in the presence of her family at home in
Evergreen, Colorado.
Moe Frix pays tribute graveside tribute to Bob
Friday,
11 May 2012 was a day of warmly crisp temperatures
and brilliantly sunny skies. Together they
punctuated the noble beauty of Arlington National
Cemetary as it witnessed the full military honors
ceremony for accepting the urn bearing the ashes of
our ‘mate Bob Frix who had passed away 15
December 2011. A drill roll of their children,
relatives, friends from all walks and Classmates
stood with Moe as Bob’s other love, his
choppers “wumpp wumpped” in a fly-by saluting of one
of their own. At graveside Moe paid touching and
heartwarming tribute to Bob and their years
together, serving our Army and their family. In a
poignant remembrance, retired General James Vaught
summed Bob’s strength, character, and heroism with
his gripping narrative of how Bob and his chopper
crew selflessly risked their own lives to save his.
Following these moving last respects, Moe and her
family hosted a luncheon reception that brought
together buddies from across the past fifty plus
years along with the reminiscences of Bob and his
family. The common denominator of their reflections?
Bob’s sense of humor and dedication to duty, honor,
country. [See Bob’s bio, page 190, Class Book].
(Photos: In memory of Bob Frix)
Roger Obermeier’s death on19 June 2012
On 19 June 2012 Roger passed on at his home
in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, after courageously fighting
a very aggressive form of prostate cancer. Surviving
Rog are his devoted wife, Claudia; [they
married in 1968 after Rog’s first Vietnam tour];
their twin daughters, Heidi Gburski, Seattle, WA and
Lori Huber, Cave Creek, AZ; three grandchildren,
Eric de Winter Gburski, and Alex and Michael Huber;
and five siblings, Richard (Priscilla), Waupaca, WI,
Romie (Theresa), Wisconsin Rapids, WI, Donna (John)
Demski, and Joan (Kenneth) Gebert, both of Wisconsin
Rapids, WI, and Mary (David) Konopaci, Plover, WI.
There were plans for memorial masse at later dates
in Wisconsin Rapids and Gilbert, AZ. Condolences may
be sent to Claudia at 530 South Biron Drive,
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494. You may make donations
to American Cancer Hope Lodge at 611 W. Doege
Street, Marshfield, WI 54449 or to YLC c/o JROTC,
Marcos de Niza High School, 6000 South Lakeshore
Drive, Tempe, AZ 85283. [See Roger’s bio, page
295, Class Book].
Tom Myerchin passes, 15 May 2012
John Purdy
paid respects for our Class at the visitation for
Tom Myerchin who died at home in Goodlettsville,
TN. Surviving are his devoted wife, Barbara; their
son and daughter-in-law, Thomas S. Myerchin, Jr.
(Cinthya), Port St. Lucie, FL; brothers, John and
William; sister, Catherine Erickson, and numerous
nieces and nephews who loved and admired him.
A Funeral Mass took place 21 May 2012 at Our Lady of
the Lake Catholic Church, Hendersonville, TN and
interment was at the Middle Tennessee Veterans
Cemetery, Pegram, TN. You may be in touch with
Barbara at 1032 Maple Court, Goodlettsville, TN
37072-9206. And you may make donations to Operation
Stand Down, 1125 12th Avenue South, Nashville, TN
37203-4709, a non-profit organization assisting
Middle Tennessee veterans, especially homeless vets.
[See Tom’s bio, page 288 , Class Book].
And to conclude, on 28 December 2011 in Tarboro, NC,
William H. DuBose passed away.
Surviving Sonny, as he will be remembered are
daughter Sabre Simone, sons Jon and Chris, and five
grandchildren. Graveside services took place at New
Zion Methodist Church, New Zion, SC. Donations may
be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box
758517, Topeka, KS 66675-8517. [Sonny did not
provide a bio for our Class Book].
For each, a triumphant Well done! Be thou at peace.
[Thanks to Dick Buckner for arranging
donations in their honor and memory.]
Greetings, Salutations, and Corrections
9/28/2011
Welcome
to our cyber notes in this the first issue of the Assembly’s latest benchmark
and as it enters its 61st year....an auspicious number, yes? By the way, hang
on to your hard copy “Final Issue”; it has a lot of neat recollections and it’s
a souvenir worth keeping. In that regard be sure to see the caption at
the web edition of our column for July which corrects the hard copy photo
caption. The photo commemorates the bon voyage luncheon for the Cairns and the
correction is that Marty & Bud Coddington are not only alive and well, but that
Bud is very much in that photo. Photo: Marty & Bud Coddington, at home in Menlo
Park, CA
Further, be advised that Terry & Bob Cairns are joining
Mimi & David Brooks at the Army Residence Community in San Antonio. Most
importantly, the Cairns are there now as you are reading these words!!
In
fact, not only the Brooks and Cairns, but soon the DeWitts, Nancy & Howard may
join them in residency. They did a recon of the ARC for possible relocation
from their home in Frisco, TX. Terry & Bob entertained with a wine and cheese
prelude to a fine seafood dinner buffet in the ARC dining room and then in the
morning Mimi & David joined them for breakfast. Then there was the send off for
the DeWitts with the anticipation that for first time in over fifty years all
three roommates will be together. Photo: Roomies together again-David Brooks,
Howard DeWitt, Bob Cairns
Looking Ahead
9/28/2011
Button & Gary Hyde are still on their mini reunion roll and are starting to set
up for 2012. Possible dates are 25-30 Jan; 8-13 Feb; 29 Feb-5 Mar 2012. Let ‘em
know at ghyde@cfl.rr.co. Already on the schedule is the gathering that Georgia
& Gene Witherspoon have arranged in Greenville, SC, 17-21 Oct 11. Looks to be
thirty plus ‘mates and O.A.O’s there for golf, tours, and good cheer. More next
time.
Travels and Adventure
9/28/2011
(l) Hans reliving the
“days of the empire,” (r) That’s Hans in front with friend behind him
Our ‘mates have been traveling to other climes as well. Bobbie & Jim Blesse
were in Italy during the
summer; Sue & Paul DeVries joined a whale watching group in the waters along
the New England coast via
a cabined sail boat; earlier in the year was safari time in South Africa. Karen
& Mike Urette vacationed
during Aug-Sep in Monterey, relishing the moderate weather and memorable visits
with west coast
‘mates. Georgia & Gene Witherspoon and Sandy Shapiro & Burke Mucho cruised the
Med during Aug
2011. Hans Wagner executed another of his adventures; this time in Tanzania.
Per his own words: “In order
to 'broaden" my horizons, I took a seven day safari in Tanzania, including the
Serengeti Plain, and enjoyed
it thoroughly. Attached are a few pictures of said outing, showing me with a
friendly elephant and even enjoying a bathtub in a tent, a la the British
Empire days of yesteryear.
Chan & Mike Eiland are still planning their return
visit to Vietnam and Founders Day in Bangkok o/a
late Feb to mid Mar 2012; Barbara & Pete
Gleichenhaus are working an April 2012 reprise of
their 2009 tour of Israel. Interested in joining up with
either or both? Contact ‘em at chaneiland@mac.com
or gleichenhaus@sbcglobal.net.
[PS: the pix is Mike’s original 1964
Mustang; can anyone top that? Mike Eiland behind the wheel of his first and original POV]
Class Leadership
9/28/2011
Ed Brown, Henmar Gabriel, and J.B. Taylor attended the West Point leaders
conference in mid August.
A few points to repeat are that Jay Olejniczak will most likely retire in Dec
2011; TAPS will become a
quarterly publication; the Register will be published every 5 years; a full
edition every 10 years. The Great
Hall at Herbert Hall is available free-of-charge for receptions after burials
of graduates; catering is at cost.
Recalling our 50th
9/28/2011
Jean & Dave Delwiche passed along some some clever photos from our 50th. This
one is of five of the
seven 3d squad, 2d platoon, 4th New Cadet Company, vintage 54 years later.
Photo: Bob Kewley, Dave
Delwiche, Marty Ganderson, Pat Hillier, Howard DeWitt
Special Honors
9/28/2011
Dan Halpin was the honored guest when the
American Society of Civil Engineers announced
“establishment of the Daniel W. Halpin Award for
Scholarship in Construction, named in honor of the
world-renowned expert on the use of simulation in
studying construction processes... He is the developer
of the CYCLONE simulation system, which is used to
simulate and study construction processes. The system
is used worldwide by construction researchers and
educators. His contributions have led to construction
simulation becoming an essential part of university
construction engineering curricula.” The award will
recognize members of ASCE or the Construction
Institute who have attained a doctoral degree within
the last ten years and who have demonstrated
outstanding scholarship that advances construction engineering as a science.
The award consists of a
certificate, a cash prize and the opportunity to present the Daniel W. Halpin
Address at a meeting of the
ASCE. This honor was conceived and established by Dan’s colleagues. Earlier in
Mar 2012 Dan visited
Okja & Bill Mackie who showed him “a wonderful time at "the center of the
world" including a guided
tour through the Pentagon”.
Many will recall spending time with Dan and his
grandson at our 50th. Photo:
Bill Mackie and Dan Halpin lunched at the Army Navy Club. Bill is sporting his
"combat injury" incurred
at the Pentagon by slipping on a booby trap in the corridors of power which
Bill described as slipping on
unmentionable debris.
Thanks to Our ‘Mates
9/28/2011
Over the past months Ed Brown has received some special notes of appreciation
that he wanted to make
sure we all see. First from Michele & George Kopscak:
Dearest Class of '61: After 10 years of hosting the Annual Pig Roast we finally
decided to renovate the pig
pit for a swing set - it looks lovely and the grandsons are having a blast
playing on it - also our yard looks a
bit more inviting without the huge cinder block pit in the back - I know the
ladies will understand this...
maybe not so much the gentlemen.
Anyway, the class was kind enough to present
us a wonderful gift
certificate to the Iris Inn B&B which we are using this September during my
nephew's wedding weekend
down in Crozet, VA. This was the perfect gift for us and I would like to thank
each and everyone of you
for your generosity and thoughtfulness. It is a pleasure and honor being a part
of West Point, Class of
1961.
Thank you for your friendship,
Love, Michele L. Kopcsak
And then from Carol Schneider, Al’s widow
West Point Friends,
Thank you so much both for the yearbook and the West Point Alumni Glee Club DVD
which arrived
yesterday. What a nostalgia trip! I remember how Allen admired Johnny Solomon's
musical ability.
My husband Allen, formerly of L-1, passed away in January of 2009 during open
heart surgery. The U.S.
Army symbol is on his plaque at our church's columbarium, and the black, gold
and gray Army Stars quilt I
made for him several years ago hangs in our church fellowship hall. Even though
he chose to leave the
Corps several months before graduation, being a part of Army ROTC, an enlisted
soldier and then a cadet
was extremely important to him. The cadet prayer hung in our home right above
his full dress hat for years.
I was privileged to enjoy that West Point experience myself and was there for
Plebe Christmas. As soon as I
graduated from Kansas University (Journalism) I went to New York to work for
Reader's Digest and
enjoyed many weekends at The Point and Camp Buckner. I attended two Army-Navy
games, had an article
in the Femmes issue of The Pointer and hosted several cadet parties at my
apartment. I even got to help
keep score when the Olympic gymnastic try-outs were held at The Point that
summer of 1960.
It was after the Army-Syracuse game in November, 1960 and the party that
followed that we had a long
discussion which resulted in our eloping to Baltimore. We had been engaged for
eight years, and Allen was
having doubts about the Army life for our family.
The last L-1 party was at our apartment in Queens that May before graduation.
Thank you for including me
in the 50-year recognition and for the years of service all of you gave our
country. I'll always choke up a bit
when I hear those Army songs.
Gratefully, Carol A. Schneider
Class Lore and Tradition
9/28/2011
One of our “firsty mentors” as plebes is Dusty Rhodes ’58 who remains close to
his ‘mates to include the
family of the late Dick Bauchspies. The link for us is that the Bauschspies’
grandson, Brandon Bauchspies
Lawrence is a member of our affiliate Class of 2011. So, it seems special to
learn that Dusty presented
Brandon with a USMA saber on behalf of his class as well as recognizing the
added connection with our
own Class of ’61.
Well Done! Be thou at Peace
9/28/2011
Finally, we must bid farewell to our ‘mates, Pete McGrath, Tarey Schell, Glenn
Peters, Jr.
Pete McGrath: On 10 May 2011 in Stuart, FL, Pete passed on. Surviving are
Laurie, their children Shawn
[Laurie] and Kevin [Domenica]; brothers: John and Robert and sister, Barbara
Logan and nine
grandchildren. Pete's funeral was 14 May 2011 in Clinton, MA with interment in
the McGrath/Areson
family plot, St. John’s Cemetery, Lancaster, MA. , Pete's family requested any
remembrances be in
contributions to the Association of Graduates.
Tarey Schell: On 7 Sep 2011 at Piedmont Hospital, Atlanta, GA, Tarey, after
suffering a massive stroke
and passed on peacefully with his family at his side. Surviving him are
Priscilla; their children, Gretchen
Schell, Adrienne Barreto, Lauren Bozone, and Christopher Schell; son-in-law
Raul Barreto; daughter-in-law Teri Schell; and grandchildren Matthew, Cathryn, and Erin Bozone; Raul,
Ryan, and Ross Barreto;
Mica and Romina Schell; and Sierra Schell. A funeral Mass was 10 September at
the Holy Trinity Catholic
Church, in Peachtree City, GA with interment at Westminster Memorial Gardens,
Peachtree City. GA.
Donations in Tarey's memory may be made to Griffin Judicial Drug Court, c/o
Spalding County, P.O. Box
1087, Griffin GA 30224. Contact me at the email link above if you want to get
in touch with Tarey's
family.
Glenn Peters, Jr.: On 9 Sep 2011 in Palm Coast, FL Glenn passed on as result of
complications of biliary
tract carcinoma. Surviving are his wife of over 27 years Cindy and his daughter
Paige Peters Connors and
granddaughter, Savannah. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a
date to be determined. We
will recall that Glenn had planned to be our 50th but canceled on 10 May after
he was diagnosed with
shingles. Contact me at the email link above if you want to get in touch with
Cindy.
We should remember too that Bev Powell’s father LTG Beverly E. Powell '36, died
on 5 Jul 2011 at the
Army Residence Community, San Antonio. Attending the memorial service with Bev
were David Brooks
and Bob Cairns.
Reminder
9/28/2011
Be sure to mark your calendar for 3 Nov 2011 and then proceed from near and far
to Fort Myer for our
Class luncheon at 1130 hrs, Ft Myer O’Club.
Number of times this page has
been accessed since counter added on 1 August 2015.
Mike Eggleston '61 has published a new book entitled The
Irish Brigade and the Corcoran Legion in the Civil War.
This history tells the story of two brigades that
fought in the American Civil War: the Irish Brigade and
the Corcoran Legion. Most of the soldiers in these
units were Irish immigrants who left Ireland as a
result of the Great Famine (1845-1849). This book
covers the Civil War battles fought by these brigades
where they served in the eastern theater of the war.
Their campaigns are described in the Civil War battles
(1861-1865). At times the brigades served in
different campaigns, but in the final years of the war
they were together in the same corps. Each relevant
Civil War battle is summarized including details of the
specific participation of the Irish Brigade and the
Corcoran Legion. The history also describes the
participation of discharged Irish soldiers after the
war from both the North and the South who participated
in raids and uprising to free Ireland from British
rule. The initial chapters also provide the history of
earlier risings against the British such as the New
Irelander Rebellion of 1848. Finally, biographies of
key participants are included.
Mike Eggleston '61 has published a new book entitled The Colorado War 1864-1865. This book tells the history of the war that occurred in Colorado Territory during the Civil War. The major conflict involved the fight between Native Americans and Colorado volunteer regiments in 1865. Others were involved including Confederate regiments and outlaws. This book interrelates activities in the Great Plains with politics in Washington, army headquarters in the field, settlers on the Frontier and the Native Americans. It shows how other Indian wars influenced the war in Colorado and how the war spread to other states and territories. Where ever possible, the conflicts are explained in the words of the participants captured in letters, diaries and newspaper articles. Nearly a hundred maps and photos are included to describe the actions. This history shows the impact of the many treaties signed: how they were violated and the result of the treaties on the way of life of the whites and Native Americans. The focus of this book is on the military campaigns and battles fought in or near Colorado how they destroyed the Native American way of life. Famous battles such as the Sand Creek Massacre and Wounded Knee are covered, but lesser known campaigns such as Red Cloud's War are also included, since these had a major effect on treaties and on the people involved. The Native American wars ended much as they had started with mistakes, confusion and the tragedy of Wounded Knee. Orlando Mini-Reunion 9/11/2020 Tentative Dates
THUR 28 JAN - MON 1 FEB Everything is tentative at this point due to the China Virus. I will update you as things go along. If it is safe, then it will be a go. I sure hope so. It would be very nice to see everyone again and a lot of fun as always. So mark your calendars and cross your fingers If you have any questions contact me at 61reunion@cfl.rr.com
Mike Eggleston has published a new book entitled The Sioux
Wars, 1854-1891, From the Grattan Fight to Wounded Knee and the Aftermath. This
book tells the history of the wars between the whites and the Dakota Native
Americans during the second half of the 19th Century. It interrelates activities
in the Great Plains with politics in Washington, army headquarters in the field,
settlers on the Frontier and the Native Americans. It shows the impact of the
many treaties signed: how they were violated and the result of the treaties on
the way of life of the whites and Native Americans. The focus of this book is on
the military campaigns and battles fought over a forty-year period and how they
destroyed the Native American way of life. Famous battles such as Custer's
defeat at the Little Big Horn are covered, but lesser known campaigns such as
Red Cloud's War are also covered, and these had a major effect on treaties and
on the people involved. 
San Antonio: Linda & Glynn Mallory. Art Downey, David Brooks,
Bob Cairns, Phil Mallory
left: Frank Rauch, Mick Maus, Mike Eiland, John Java, John Grisoni, Mike Harpold, Jim Harmon
Joan & Frank Rauch, Coralinn & Mick Maus, Chan & Mike Eiland [and flat Cullum], Donna & John Java, Teri & John Grisoni, Mike Harpold &
(not pictured)Elaine, Jim & Carolyn Harmon
Here is an anecdote that Courtney Rittgers has authored and sent to Mike
Hale who has generously [and with permission] provided to us.
Courtney while a bit modest and self effacing is one of our own
prolific writers and teller of humorous as well as thought provoking
tales. For instance his Class bio tells us that Legend has it that
our family doctor gave away his tickets to the Army/Navy game so he
could be on hand for my birth. As it turned out, he missed both
thrilling events. Army beat Navy 6-0 that year, and I was born
before he could get to our house in a blinding snow storm December
7, 1937 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. His tale below contains a bit of the
same humor and irony.
July 29, 2019, Arlington National Cemetery on a slight rise of hallowed
ground, the Washington Monument in the distance, The Old Guard, of
the U.S. Third Infantry Regiment honoring our Classmate,
Don Lionetti. As many of our Classmates and wives followed
the lone Soldier bearing Don's red colored flag of three white stars
and who marched behind the historic horse drawn caisson bearing
Don's stars and stripes draped casket, the U.S. Army band rendered
those same rhythmic beats so familiar from our parades on the Plain.
The gravesite service concluded with the artillery salute of 15
rounds, then all listened for the Crack! Crack! Crack! of the Honor
Guard's traditional rifle salute, and the immediate sounding of Taps
somber notes. Prior to the burial ceremony, the funeral service took
place in the Old Post Chapel with eulogies and remembrances from
family and friends who were special companions during Don's life and
career. Major General Donald Infante, Brigadier General Roger
Yankoupe, and Don, Jr. offered prayers and thoughtful anecdotes
regarding Don as Soldier, friend , husband and father. Following the
burial, Bobbie, Don's
bride of almost 58 years hosted a breakfast
reception that provided time for our Classmates to recall their
times with Don from cadet days and right up until his passing. The
Connollys for one, were especially supportive during Don's final
days.
There was time too to share thoughts with those surviving
Don: daughter Laura and husband Mike Barton, sons Don, Jr and wife
Julie, Chris and wife Betsy and Don's brother Bill and sister Mary
Ann Gleason. Bobbie & Don had three grandchildren along with
numerous nieces and nephews. Among our mates present were
Lucy Paone, Paula Barrie, Marty Ganderson, Bobbie & Jim Blesse, Rina
& Ed Brown, Linda & Jim Connolly, Dawn & Bob Glass, Gina & Joe
Fishburne, Jan & Pat Hillier, Karen & Ed Leland, Bob Rosenkranz,
Mike Urette, Gene Witherspoon. 
Mike Eggleston has published a new book entitled
The Montagnard People in the Indochina Wars, 1945-1991. This
history tells the story of the wars fought by the Montagnards of
Indochina against the North Vietnamese, the French, the Vietcong and
others as they sought autonomy for the Montagnard tribes. The
Montagnards were loyal fighters with U. S. Forces during America's
involvement in the Vietnam War. The struggle of the Montagnards
continued long after the fall of South Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia in
1975. The end of Saigon's war did not end the plight of the
Montagnards. This history is based upon the recollections of the
author and others involved in the wars in Indochina. This book was
published in August 2019.
Joe, Roger, Jerry, escort, MAJ J.D.Kingsley ('06), and Mike, 5 December 2018, Eglin AFB FL
Jerry and Cathy White and the Eilands in front of Donlon Hall, 5
December 2018
Three "old soldiers" of 1961- Jerry White, Mike Eiland, Joe Stringham at the
honoring of Donlon, 5 December 2018
Blesses have been busy keeping A-2 and
associated mates on the move and adding flag pins to their collective map
of world travels. Arriving via AirMalta, their most recent port of call
was the historic and strategically located island, Malta [and only they
know the when and the where of their forthcoming explorations]. They
landed the spirit of USMA and A-2 and while not with certainty, your
Scribe remains with the belief that they are perhaps be the first USMA
entourage to enjoy the sights, sounds and hospitality of this formerly
British isle in the eastern Med between Spain and Italy. [To any reader
please correct this belief, as may be appropriate ]
Malta by bus:
Sue & Paul DeVries, Sandy & Jack Zimmerman, Margie &
John McNearney ('59), Mary Frances & Hank Kenny, Bobbie &Jim Blesse, Lucy
Paone, and Gale & Bob McConnell.
It is a story of the boat
people'
and those who did
not help them, but most of
all, about those who did.
The story line built around
Mike Harpold's work while on
assignment at refugee camps
in Southeast Asia with the
purpose of putting together
a report for a congressional
hearing on the boat people.
While in the midst of his
task he was interrupted by
medical doctor alerting him
to a boat load of
thirty-four Vietnamese men,
women and children. They and
their disabled boat were
about to be towed out to sea
by the Thai Navy to be cast
adrift - and to certain
death. Mike had barely
minutes to come up with a
way to save them! From there
the story continues about
this selfless American, a
former West Pointer with a
large set of cojones, who
took chances and got things
done.
Hiring for Heroes presented The
Presidential Award to
Jim Nicholson for a lifetime
of commitment and service to
veterans and military
families. A graduate of the
United States Military
Academy, Nicholson's
reputation of caring for
those in need spans decades
public and private service
dedicated to our country as
well as our service members
and their families.
It was Tuesday 8 May 2018, one of those bright blue sky days at the USAFA when our mate from K-2,
Ken Siegenthaler accepted the honors and gracious words of
his Air Force Academy leaders and colleagues for his almost thirty
years of dedicated service helping to educate and mold leaders for
the Air Force and for civil life afterwards. During Ken's flying
career he has logged over 6300 flying hours in C-124s and C-133s.
Assignments included Tachikawa , Japan, Dover, DE, and Air Force
Advisor to Oklahoma National Guard in Oklahoma City, OK. Ken became
jump qualified with the 173rd Airborne Brigade, and graduated from
Jungle Survival School as well. Then he took the trail to a PhD in
Laser Physics enroute to the rest of his career in Air Force Systems
Command Laboratories at Wright-Patterson and concluding as the Chief
Scientist and Commander/Director of the Frank J. Seiler Research
Laboratory USAFA.
James Jim¯ Nicholson has been appointed by President
Trump to the West Point Board of Visitors (BOV). The
mission of the BOV is to inquire and advise the
President as to the morale, discipline, academic
standing, and general state of excellence of USMA and
the Corps of Cadets. Nicholson, himself a
A
pictorial saga of James Scott's military service, from enlisted soldier to West
Point graduate, Class of 1961, and decorated Vietnam Aviator, recipient of the
Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, and the Distinguished Flying
across. The book includes Scott's awards with photos of citations and
presentations, plus rare photos of shoulder patches, devices and medals. Scott
now battles another lethal and rare enemy, Inclusion Body Myositis. Proceeds
will go to research a cure for that disease. Available at Blurb.com.
Mike Eggleston releases
One Man's Traitor is Another's
Patriot.
This history tells the story of George Washington and
Robert Rogers and the conflict between the two. Robert Rogers is
considered by many to be the father of the U. S. Army Special Forces
and Rangers. Rogers'
Saint Francis Raid in 1759 against the Abenaki
tribe of Native Americans in what is now Canada was one of the major
events of that war. The raid is described in detail. This book
provides a large level of detail and reveals a vast number of
contemporary documents that are frequently quoted. During the War of
Independence, he and Washington clashed and Washington thought he
was a British spy. In the battles that followed the Declaration of
Independence Rogers activities were of continuing concern to
Washington. Robert Rogers was a puzzle to his contemporaries and to
those who study his life today. This book describes Rogers'
life and
motivations.
On the
fiftieth anniversary of the battles, Mike Eggleston's new book has been published and is available for immediate delivery from book sellers.
The author is indebted to members of the 173rd Airborne Brigade who included their recollections. Two of these soldiers received the Distinguished Service Cross for their valor.
The book summary: Thousands of books and articles have been written about the war in Vietnam. This book tells the story of a series of key battles in Vietnam and how they were influenced
by events before them and how they affected the war effort. These decisive battles were called the "Border Battles" in Vietnam and the principal battle occurred at Dak To. These present
a story of great valor. This history differs from others that deal with the Vietnam war since tells in detail these decisive battles not documented before in the words of those who served there.
The book relies upon records as well as memoirs of Vietnam veterans of Dak To many of which have not been previously published. Other important sources include the memoirs, letters and books written
by the key leaders during this period such as Haig, Kissinger, Nixon, Westmoreland, and General Vo Nguyen Giap, the North Vietnamese commander.
Army
West Point Athletics has received another extraordinary commitment
from Lee and Penny Anderson that will enhance the
cadet-athlete experience in multiple sports and further advance the
mission of the Academy. The Anderson's contribution will catapult a
transformation of the Arvin Annex that will house a new
state-of-the-art weight room and locker room facilities for multiple
athletic and club programs. In addition to this facility upgrade,
the Andersons will endow the head men's basketball and women's rugby
coaching positions.
On
1 April 2016 a number of our mates attended the burial of
Dennis Rooney at Arlington. In a few weeks there will be
two more burials, John Lawton and
Butch
Robertson. John's will be buried 14 June [appropriately
Flag day and the 241st
our Army's birthday]. There will be a
service in the Old Post Chapel, Ft Myer at 8:45 AM. Following John's
interment, his family will host a reception at the Officers Club.
Featured will be tales of Nasty Jack¯ and bourbon.
We
want to remember that Charles Burns passed on 25
February in San Francisco, CA, after a courageous battle with
leukemia. Many have been in touch with Vera who survives Charles
along with children Amy, Timothy and his wife Laura, Patrick and
his wife Colleen, Jenny and her husband John, Kathleen and her
husband Christopher; and grand children, Julia, Jackson, Connor,
Liam, Amanda, Charlotte, and Josephine.
The
Saint Pio Award has been established to recognize the selfless and
outstanding contribution to the Catholic Church of those individuals
who have strongly committed to support the Saint Pio Foundation and its
vision. Guests of honor and Saint Pio Award winners will be the
acclaimed Actor Gary Sinise and Hon. Jim Nicholson,
former Secretary for Veteran Affairs and former US Ambassador to the
Holy See. Part of the proceeds of this event will be allocated to
support the VA Maryland Healthcare System’s Homeless Program in
Baltimore.
As
our 55th fast approaches, we also observe a series of “fifty years
since” events regarding the war in Vietnam. So the timing of the
reminders from Mike Eggleston
and Jim Blesse, among
many of our’mates are on target: Per Jim - “ There is GREAT news that
Ron Beckett's book,
now titled Jack of All Trades, has been published by Stackpole
Books, Harrisburg, PA. Make sure you seek out a copy to purchase at
your favorite book source. You don't want to miss it and another taste
of Ron's knowledge and sense of humor.”
It
was into this situation that the Class of 1961’s Major Ronald L.
Beckett returned to Vietnam, assigned as the DSA (District Senior
Advisor) of Dinh Quan District Long Khanh Province, III Corps Tactical
Zone. Ron had deployed earlier as well in 1965 with the US Army’s 1st
Infantry Division “The Big Red One” as part of President Johnson’s
response to the North Vietnamese incursion. He had seen combat as a
company commander and understood the US conventional war tactics of
“Search and Destroy”. But, now he was participating in a different kind
of war, the war to win “the hearts and minds” of the South Vietnamese
people. In Jack of All Trades, he described the day to day
lives of American advisors in a way about which very few Americans,
including those who served in US units knew very little. Jack of
All Trades , while humorous at times, stands as a factual story of
one of the many US advisory teams scattered throughout the provinces
and districts of the Republic of South Vietnam.
Photo:
20 November 2015 - H-1 reunion. Todd Counts and Mike Eiland
Flanked Butch and had one of those unforgettable get togethers,
soon after Barbara and he pulled up stakes in Florida to
re-retire in Virginia to be closer to family.
From
Hank:
Photo: October 2015 Dan Halpin G-1 ’61 at
USMA barracks construction site with Cadet David Koerper, G-1 '16
The
first ’58-’61 mini E-2 reunion 10 Jun 2015: Chuck Toftoy '58 and his
favorite "weenie” and our author Mike Eggleston
29
Jun 2015 Phyllis & George Cherry, Tampa FL
Judi
& Larry Butterworth with just cause and pride want all
of us to know that their second grand daughter has achieved the
title of Miss Montana for 2015 and will be competing in the Miss
America pageant. This year Danielle Wineman earned the crown
that signifies her achievements and will accompany her to the
Atlantic City pageant, 14 September 2015.
Dial your TV
[remember those] to ABC TV to observe the festivities. [Check
for the broadcast time]
Coralinn
& Mick Maus celebrated their fiftieth wedding
anniversary in great style: cutting their cake with Mick’s
cadet saber and tapping their feet to lively and nostalgic
tunes by a Bavarian style quintet as well as their grandson
at the piano. They married in the Bavarian town of
Oberammergau at the Sankt Peter and Paul Kirche. The parents
of Coralinn (Paul Tuttle ‘39) were stationed in Oberammergau
but Mick’s parents being at an even greater distance were
unable to attend [remember trans Atlantic flying was a bit
different in 1964]
Mike
with Karen’s support is the founder and
chief executive of Great American Corporation in Tampa, a
family administered company focused on diversified real
estate construction, development, and management. Throughout
these years Mike has been active in the Tampa community and
has held
responsible civic positions focused on the arts
and support for the military. As Chairman of the Building
Committee at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Mike was
responsible for over-seeing the construction of the Patel
Conservatory. In 2010 the Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture &
the Arts recognized him for his impact on Tampa’s cultural
community. Also important is that Karen & Mike are donors to
the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay, the Tampa Bay History
Center and the Tampa Theatre. Mike had served as president
of the Tampa’s Military Affairs Committee, the West Point
Society and Leadership Tampa Alumni. Topping it off is that
Mike remains an active member of the American Committee on
Foreign Relations, the Society of International Business
Fellows, and the Tampa Yacht and Country Club.
Tom
Rousseau has been pursuing motorcycle adventure for
sometime.
He wants to let us know of his latest ride to the
convocation at the Heluva Rukus, the NY State Championship
of Cowboy Action Shooting. Pictured with Tom are sons Guy in
the black hat and Jay in the white hat. [That’s Tom in the
middle] Tom has been the match director for the past five
years.
This year, 18-20 September there were 266
participants from 19 states and Canada.
Both of Tom’s sons
participated in the cowboy shooting.
The grand daughters
are also shooters but didn’t make this trip. Anne
was attending the home front in Troy where they
continue to enjoy the fruits of their labors in retirement.
![23 March 2014 Michael McCarthy 2000 [on left]and Tom Rousseau "Youngest and Oldest Grads" at the Albany, NY Founders Day Dinner](images/https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-mE4o9piv3W4/U_3LiDV839I/AAAAAAAA4gc/dgqu4mCxMgQ/s288/1961%2520Pix%2520%25231%2520Rousseau%2520FndrsDay%2520Albany2014.jpg "23 March 2014 Michael McCarthy 2000 [on left]and Tom Rousseau \"Youngest and Oldest Grads\" at the Albany, NY Founders Day Dinner")
Because of its locally historic
significance Life Magazine pictured it as part of
its special edition commemorating the 70th anniversary of
the D-Day landings. Two granddaughters and son Guy live in
Michigan where he is an environmental engineer. During a
2013 business trip to the Philippines, Guy caught up with
Ray Ong ’63, an E-2 file with whom Tom has kept in touch
over these many years.
![August 2014 vicinity Presidio of San Francisco: Pete with the other lovely ladies in his life, daughter Risa [with Austin and Ralph], niece Liz Fanning, and her mother and Pete's sister, Anne](images/https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-yCwuH2xS4cQ/U_3LjjguyaI/AAAAAAAA4g0/_vCMh2ZZGTE/s288/1961%2520Pix%2520%25235%2520DPG%2520Risa.jpg "August 2014 vicinity Presidio of San Francisco: Pete with the other lovely ladies in his life, daughter Risa [with Austin and Ralph], niece Liz Fanning, and her mother and Pete's sister, Anne")
The 21st of May 2013 was a picture perfect P-rade day on the
Plain. Present and accounted for and helping to fill the
bleachers were many of our ‘mates who had travelled from
near and far to recognize Lee Anderson for
his dedication and achievement that have made USMA a better
place. Following the Alumni Review that appeared more
spectacular than many of those present could recall, a
special reception “down the hill” at the Hotel Thayer
further honored Penny & Lee. There were
tributes to both and even a little gentle roasting. Tom Dyer
’67 and past AoG chairman detailed the generosity toward
West Point that Lee along with
Penny have demonstrated. Freed Lowrey ’67 added
light humor that also carried a message of Lee’s
loyalty to all things West Point. A unique honor bestowed
upon Lee was from the management of the
Hotel Thayer. As part of their remarkable rejuvenation of
this historic landmark, they have a project to name prime
guest suites in honor of noted graduates. So now,
Lee has a suite named for him. Inside one wall
displays photos and memorabilia that tell his life’s story.
[It’s worth a visit]. Below are photos of many of our ‘mates
who were present for this memorable day.
Left: 1961 Waiting for the P-rade, Alumni Review: Jim
Nicholson; Rod Grannemann; Chan & Mike Eiland; George
Kopcsak; Pat Carroll 
Jay McCann again has received recognition
and honors
for his selfless contributions to his community.
On 2 May 2013, at the Bel Air Country Club, CA,
members
arranged a special evening to honor Jay.
The event kicked
off with the UCLA cadets and the officer in charge of the
ROTC program, executing
Honor Guard ceremonies; following
was the master of ceremonies delivering Secretary of the
Army’s letter of personal greetings and the
AoG’s president
Bob Mc Clure ’76 also recognized Jay’s service sending his
message via a special video recording.
Clay Jones : On 9 May 2013.
He is survived
by his wife Mercy, their three children,
and six grandchildren. Clay retired from
the USAF and continued to serve through his accomplishments
in the aerospace industry. Clay’ s funeral
was 29 May at the St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Catholic Church
in Lomita, CA and burial was at the Green Hills Memorial
Park, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. Clay’s
family suggested that any memorial donations be made to the
American Cancer Society or UCLA Pancreatic Research for the
purpose of determining whether genetic markers, scans, or
certain risk factors can be found to help diagnose and treat
this disease.
Jim Carr : On 20 April 2013 in
Now we can toast more past events of 2012 beginning with
our I-2 ‘mates who proclaimed their thanks to
Marilyn & Chuck Randolph for their outstanding
successes. They made possible the great time that was had
by each and every I-2 ‘mate present for this mini-reunion
at Balboa Island, CA, in October 2012. The verdict from one
I-2 ‘er was that “For our California reunion the weather
could not have been better and the reunion events arranged
by the Randolphs were nothing less than outstanding. The
cast of I-2 characters, in addition to gracious hosts
Marilyn & Chuck, included Trish & Dick
Buckner, Grace &Tom Cuthbert, Jackie & Hal Gaither,
Stephanie & Darius Gaskins, Jim Goldstine, Priscilla & Bob
Hardiman, Marianne & George Henderson, Ed Jones, Jack
McLaughlin.” Our I-2 ‘mates started their mini
reunions back in May 2000 in Williamsburg, VA and continued
the march with reunions in May 2005 at Eagle Lake WI, in
April 2008 at Huntsville, AL, and in September 2009 at
Myrtle Beach, SC.
All
reports proclaimed that the September 2012 Mini-Reunion
Russian River Cruise was an “outstanding success”.
Connie & Larry Budge led sixteen of our ’mates and
wives plus twenty-four family and friends aboard the ship
in Moscow. Earlier under bright morning skies they toured
Moscow, traveled on Russia’s highly decorated and very
efficient metro (constructed in 1932) and concluded with a
visit to Red Square. They marveled at the architecture and
beauty of Bolshoi Theater and especially of St Basil’s
Cathedral (the oldest building in the square). Many of our
‘mates marveled that this was surreal standing in Red
Square when only 20 years ago it didn’t seem ever possible.
(Especially for those who had European assignments
during the Cold War)
Joe Stewart: of complications of a
stroke after a courageous, multi-year battle with
cancer. Joe is survived by his wife Marilynn;
two daughters, Pamela Telenko and Nancy Stewart; a son,
Michael; and a granddaughter, Viv Daniel. Joe’s family
encourages remembering him through donations to the
Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS
66675. You may be in touch with Marilynn at 355 Cedar
Drive, Southold, NY 11971 
Bert H. Custer:grew up in Renton, was
an outstanding high school student and athlete and
attended the University of Washington for two years.
Among Bert’s career achievement were two tours in
Vietnam, service as General's Aide, and a master's in
math. After retiring in 1986, Bert returned to Renton
and, until his health began to fail, he taught
trigonometry and calculus. In addition to
Shirley [they celebrated 46 years of marriage
on 7 August], surviving Bert are son Derek Smith of NYC,
grand-daughter Savannah Migliuri, brother Don (Loraine),
sisters Gina Custer and Lia (Steve) Reardon, and nieces
Rose, Ericka and Ingrid Custer, Rachel and Hilary
Grabner, and nephews Richard, Tim, and Kjell Custer. His
brother Alec and sister-in-law Barbara and sister
Maribeth Zwick preceded Bert in death. You may be in
touch with Shirley at 714 Cedar Avenue South, Renton, WA
98507-6044. 
Jon Nitkowski: after a courageous
battle with pancreatic cancer, coronary artery disease,
and diabetes. Surviving Jon are Mary
and their son Steve. Mary informed us that “Jon had been
resting comfortable at home with the great help from UT
Hospice care and help from the VA hospice. But the
combination of cancer, heart disease and diabetes and
then the sadness in his heart for their daughter who
passed on in Jun 2012 just became an insurmountably
battle in the end. Both Jon and I were so fortunate to
have his son Steve at our side. In addition to the 4
years that Jon was a cadet, there are fond family
memories from the years that Jon taught leadership at
the Academy. In many ways Jon remains the leader of
men/women...his leadership went beyond the field of
battle and has been felt by many on the field of life. I
would like to thank the many that have taken the time to
convey to Jon this past year how he had impacted their
values and how he had guided them for the better on how
they approached life. Those messages always seem to have
come at a time his spirits were low and seemed to bring
him strength to fight another day. This has been quite a
year for both Jon and I, as many have gathered from my
updates. We battled this disease as we lived our life -
as a team.” Mary also thanks A-1 company mate
Mick and Coralinn Maus for their special visit
and she informed us that there will be a full honors
funeral and the service the Old Cadet Chapel at 1:30 PM,
19 Nov. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jon's
memory may be sent to the American Cancer Society, P.O.
Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718 or Johns Hopkins
Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, 100 North Charles Street,
Suite 234, Baltimore, MD 21201. You may be in touch with
Mary at 310 Kiyuga Way, Loudon, TN 37774-2706.
G-1 at Chancellorsville – Mackie, Solomon, Halpin
A-1 Scottsdale & Grand Canyon - Muffin Vallely and Mick
Maus
L-2 L.A. Reunion: Play the Game – Who are the Newbies in
the picture?
L-2 Mucho, Biddinger, Lynch – toasting a perfect
day…doesn’t get better!
L2 Dining Out in L.A.: Tasty and Hot…Your turn to play
the game of Name Our ‘Mates
L-2 L.A. : And the cookies were Second to None as well
L-2 L.A. Reunion - Smile for the Camera
Tampa Founders Day – George Hricz and MaryAnn DaVoli
The Veatches – tea and serenade at village near Hanoi,
An
important read and addition to the body of knowledge
of African American roles and contributions during
the Civil War. The Battle of Nashville, December
1864 serves as the focal point for presenting facts
and personalized narratives that are timely during
observances of the Civil War 150 years afterwards.
(Photo: Book cover of Mike Eggleston’s latest
work)
Friday,
11 May 2012 was a day of warmly crisp temperatures
and brilliantly sunny skies. Together they
punctuated the noble beauty of Arlington National
Cemetary as it witnessed the full military honors
ceremony for accepting the urn bearing the ashes of
our ‘mate Bob Frix who had passed away 15
December 2011. A drill roll of their children,
relatives, friends from all walks and Classmates
stood with Moe as Bob’s other love, his
choppers “wumpp wumpped” in a fly-by saluting of one
of their own. At graveside Moe paid touching and
heartwarming tribute to Bob and their years
together, serving our Army and their family. In a
poignant remembrance, retired General James Vaught
summed Bob’s strength, character, and heroism with
his gripping narrative of how Bob and his chopper
crew selflessly risked their own lives to save his.
Following these moving last respects, Moe and her
family hosted a luncheon reception that brought
together buddies from across the past fifty plus
years along with the reminiscences of Bob and his
family. The common denominator of their reflections?
Bob’s sense of humor and dedication to duty, honor,
country. [See Bob’s bio, page 190, Class Book].
(Photos: In memory of Bob Frix)
Welcome
to our cyber notes in this the first issue of the Assembly’s latest benchmark
and as it enters its 61st year....an auspicious number, yes? By the way, hang
on to your hard copy “Final Issue”; it has a lot of neat recollections and it’s
a souvenir worth keeping. In that regard be sure to see the caption at 
Barbara & Pete
Gleichenhaus are working an April 2012 reprise of
Dan Halpin was the honored guest when the
American Society of Civil Engineers announced
“establishment of the Daniel W. Halpin Award for
Scholarship in Construction, named in honor of the