Richard M. Strohm

NO. 17409 • 29 September 1927 – 29 November 1996

Died in Red Bank, NJ
Interred St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Spring Lake, NJ

Richard Maynard Strohm was born in Brooklyn, NY, the son of Harold C. Strohm and Mildred Beebe Strohm, and younger brother of Eleanor Strohm Leavitt. Dick spent his childhood in Montclair, NJ, attending the public schools and spent sum­mers from age six to eighteen at the Luther Gulick Camps in New Hampshire, first as a camper and later, from age 15, as a counselor. He learned to sail on Cape Cod Nimblets, and sailing always remained a joyful activity in his life. As a camper, Dick also enjoyed rid­ing, riflery, and playing the piano—notably a breakneck speed version of “Honeysuckle Rose,” which, later in life, became one of his signature pieces.

For his senior year of high school, Richard attended Phillips Exeter Academy, graduated in 1945, and attended Princeton University for one year before beginning his education at West Point. Dick came to the Academy well-prepared academically, socially, mentally and athletically—though not weight-wise! As the story has it, Dick had to wear soaking wet towels during his admissions physical to make minimum weight for entrance. He was put on the special “nutrition” table to bulk up but in fact lost weight during his plebe year, to the chagrin of his supervisor.

From his classmates’ numerous letters, a lovely portrait emerges: “a real gentleman— a gentle man, but with a core of steel,” “always there when needed,” “quiet, insightful, hon­orable,” “perfectly at home in any circum­stances,” “a person of character and depth,” and “one of the best-liked classmates.” A re­curring theme in these letters is how Dick’s wry sense of humor helped get his classmates through the rough spots during those demanding years.

He was a “bright hive who didn’t show it.” In truth, Dick prejudiced his own grades by spending time aiding struggling classmates. He not only “helped many of us keep our heads above water” but probably “to make it through, period!” Activities during his years at the Academy included the French, Radio, Skeet, and Ski Clubs and the “C” Squad swimming team.

After graduation, Dick spent three years in the 1st Engineer Combat Battalion of the 1st Infantry Division in Germany. During those years, he was highly regarded by his commanders, peers, and the men he led. While in Germany, he proposed marriage by letter to Margaret (Peg) White of Jersey City, NJ. Peg’s brother Bud (Martin J. White) was a classmate of Dick’s at the Academy and the means by which Peg and Dick first met. When Peg made the transatlantic trip to Europe for her “Grand Tour,” she surprised her friends and family when she informed them that she would not be returning to the states but, instead, would be marrying Dick and remaining in Germany. The couple was married on 29 Dec 1951, attended by a small group of family members and close Army friends, such as Jack and Jean Carr. Dick and Peg’s first daughter, Mary Catherine, was born in November 1952 in Wurtzburg, and the family subsequently lived in an apartment in nearby Kitzingen.

Dick was next stationed at Ft. Belvoir, VA. There Peg gave birth to their second daughter, Susan Elizabeth, in 1954. That same year, Dick resigned his commission and entered Harvard Business School, where he earned an MBA in 1956. There, too, a classmate recalls his “quiet good humor and solidly logical intellect.”

After Harvard, Dick began his business career at National Lead but stayed only brief­ly, joining Airco in July 1957, where he be­came VP of distribution and assistant to the group VP. He taught Dale Carnegie courses for a number of years and was very involved in Junior Achievement during his tenure at Airco. His third daughter, Julia Clare, was born in 1960.

In 1962, Dick and Peg bought a beauti­ful, five-acre home in Rumson, NJ, immedi­ately next door to brother-in-law Bud White and his family. In the years that followed, Dick played tennis regularly, infuriating his opponents with his combination of good, solid tennis and “junk” shots. Always charac­terized by tremendous intellectual curiosity, Dick taught his children to enjoy reading and learning—there was never an evening when the dictionary or World Book Encyclopedia was not pulled down to look something up. Though not a great bridge player, he acquit­ted himself well at the game and generous­ly would serve as a fourth when needed. An inveterate—some would say, ruthless— pun­ster, Dick often submitted quips to The Wall Street Journal and would occasionally get to see his comedic travesties in print. Dick was infamous for pulling out his ukulele at parties, singing enthusiastically, if not art­fully, songs such as “I Love to See My Poor Old Mother Work,” “When Father Laid the Carpet on the Stairs,” and “Clancy’s Wooden Wedding.” Dick was a marvelous letter writ­er—not prolific but always witty, funny and full of wonderful aperçus.

Dick retired from Airco in 1982 as the business manager of Airco Energy. In 1984, he began working for Industrial Preparedness at Ft. Monmouth, NJ, specializing in night-vision technology contracts. In July 1985, his wife Peg died of breast cancer. Dick was an unfailingly loving and cheerful caretaker for Peg during her 2 1/2-year illness, a true inspiration to their daughters, other family, and friends. There could have been no better friend or spouse.

In October 1986, Dick married a colleague and friend from his days at Airco, Mary Friel from Westfield, NJ. The couple lived a happy, active life together in Little Silver, NJ, when, in 1991, Dick was diag­nosed with neck cancer. Exploratory surgery indicated that the cancer was inoperable, though radiation treatment did afford Dick five more years before his death on 29 Nov 1996 in Red Bank, NJ.

Like so many of his West Point classmates, Dick was a model of personal integrity, intelligence, and diligence. He helped many people throughout his life, always quietly and without fanfare. His wonderful humor, and ability to laugh uproariously at his own jokes, made life a delight for those who had the good luck to know him.

—Julia C. Strohm, daughter

James F. Workman

NO. 17477  .  15 Dec 1927 - 30 Oct 1995

Died in Fredericksburg, VA 
Inurned in West Point Post Cemetery, West Point, NY


James Frederick Workman's lifelong dream was to be a West Point graduate just like his father, James Henry (Harry) Workman, who graduated in the Class of 1923. Jim's dream materialized in 1946 when he received a presidential appointment to the Academy, and it was fully realized when he graduated in 1950. The same year, he met, fell in love with, and married Ellen Clyburn, daughter of Army COL and Mrs. James Clyburn (Class of 1924), making 1950 a double milestone year.

Jim's first assignment took him to Ft. Sill, OK where he had been born when his dad was stationed there. In 1951, at Ft. Sill, Jim and Ellen were blessed with the arrival of their first child, Martha Lynn. Daughter number two, Ann Louise, was born one year later, while Ellen was in Chicago. Jim had already moved to Stuttgart, Germany, where he was setting up the household for his growing family. The family soon followed, and by the time the young couple returned to the States, their little family had doubled in size to include daughters Ellen Susan and Nancy Jean. Back at Ft. Sill in 1956, daughter number five, Barbara Kay, arrived.

The next three years found the Workman clan back at Jim's beloved West Point, where he taught algebra geometry, trigonometry, and calculus as an assistant professor in the Math Department. From there, Jim went back to school himself, earning a master of science in electrical engineering as a "ramblin' wreck" from Georgia Tech in Atlanta. Daughter number six, Mary Catherine, made her appearance at this time. Jim referred to her as his little "Georgia peach."

From July 1961 to July 1964, Jim used his newly acquired electrical engineering skills as a test officer on the Nike Zeus anti-missile system program at the White Sands Missile Range, just north of Ft. Bliss, TX. It was an assignment that he enjoyed immensely.

While at the Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth, KS, Jim's seventh and last (finally!) daughter, Kim Jannette, was born. He never expressed any regrets about not having a son; he loved his little harem!

From October 1965 to October 1966, Jim served as an advisor to the social services department of the Republic of South Viet Nam Armed Forces. He was extremely proud of the work he and others were doing to build schools, hospitals, and orphanages for the people of Viet Nam.

He spent the remaining five years of his military service working once again with missile defense systems, first at the Pentagon, then back in Germany, and finally at Ft. Bliss, TX. Jim retired in 1971 after 25 years of faithful service.

Jim Workman had two great loves in his life: the Army and his family. He spent the remaining years of his life concentrating on his family. He cared for his aging parents until they passed away and then was kept busy with 14 grandchildren. After a paralyzing stroke in 1989, Jim moved in with his daughter Susan, her husband, and five children near Fredericksburg, VA. It was there he passed away quietly in his sleep in the fall of 1995.

At the foot of his bed was a large picture of the Academy at West Point, and it may have been the final thing he saw before he closed his eyes for the last time. Jim Workman was a dedicated soldier, faithful husband, loving father, and a genuinely honorable man. He leaves behind seven daughters, fourteen grandchildren, and six great grandchildren.

- Ellen S. Peppers

Stuart Wood, Jr.

NO. 17620  •  3 February 1929 – 17 June 1997

Died 17 June 1997 in Lake Wylie, SC.
Cremated, ashes scattered in the Atlantic Ocean

 

STUART WOOD, JR., was born at Ft. Bragg, NC, on his father's birthday. He traveled with his father, Stuart '27, and mother Mary, as they were posted from Ft. Bragg to Hawaii, where a brother (ex-'56) joined the family, before the family went on to move to various other military stations.

As a youngster, a potential military career was nearly cut short at Ft. Sill when a dud exploded, shattering five-year ­old Stuart's right arm. His arm was shortened by an inch, with extensive ligament damage, creating a lifelong problem in maintaining a proper saluting posture with his right hand. Even with his injured arm, Stuart was presented with the opportunity to attend West Point, in part as a result of his father being a Japanese POW during WW II. He chose to do so, and took a short sojourn from Fishburne Military School to attend Sullies to prepare for the entrance exam. He was successful, and entered West Point with the Class of ‘50 in 1946.

Academics at West Point were challenging, but Stu, as he was known, managed to graduate in the top third of his class. While a cadet, he was a four-year member of the swim team, played lacrosse, was on the track team, and was in the 100th Night Show.

Stu's first assignment was with a tank battalion in Germany. After two years, he transfered to the Corps of Engineers, his desired branch. A year's service as aide-de-­camp in Stuttgart brought him back to Ft. Bragg and the 82d Airborne Division, where he earned his airborne wings before heading for Korea. Serving two years combined as a company commander in the 82d Division in Korea was among the top assignments of Stu’s career.

Upon return stateside, Stu  met the love of his life. Four months after reporting to Ft. Belvoir, he married Patricia Meredith, whom he had met at Ft. Bragg. They lived and loved for 40 years with four great children to complete their family.

Advance coursework led to Stu earning a masters degree at Texas A&M,  where his first child was born. This was followed by a three-year tour in Alaska, where Stu was able to pursue several of his favorite pastimes - hunting, fishing, bowling, and skiing. A second child joined the family in Alaska. His next assignment brought the family back to Ft. Bragg, XVIII Airborne Corps, for two years, where a third child joined the family at Ft. Bragg before they headed overseas to Europe for three years. Working with NATO construction for that tour was very satisfying for Stu. His fourth child joined the family in Heidelberg, Germany.

Upon returning stateside once again, he brought the family to Colorado, where Stu taught civil engineering to USAF cadets. The family loved that assignment, and anchored in Colorado Springs.­

Stu had two tours in southeast Asia, one as Commander, 27th Engineer Battalion, and the other as Chief of Operations, 18th Engineer Brigade. Upon his return to the U.S., Stu joined his family in Colorado Springs, where he became the NORAD Engineer, monitoring the expansion of the underground headquarters at Cheyenne Mountain. He became more closely involved when he was assigned as the Area Engineer responsible for the actual construction of that project.

In addition to his military attributes, Stu was a gregarious host. One was always welcomed by his "bear hug" greeting.  While stationed at the Air Force Academy, Stu and Pat formed a gourmet club. Friends and classmates enjoyed many memorable evenings enhanced by his culinary efforts. While in Viet Nam, he hosted numerous dinner parties for fellow officers in his quarters. On one such occasion, a classmate visited him to renew their friendship, catch up on families and friends, and enjoy Stu’s cooking.  Unfortunately, the enemy began shelling the compound. Dinner and drinks continued, however, while both huddled under Stu’s trailer.

Stu and Pat sailed with friends, classmates, and relatives in many parts of the world. He was at home in the galley, as well as on deck. Once, when  he was short of butter for an evening meal he was preparing, Stu swam  to a near-by anchored cruise.  He got the butter and swam the side stroke back-holding the prize high-and-dry to the cheers of the cruiseship passengers and the delight of the shipmates.

Retirement in 1975 meant changing the color of the clothes he wore to work, as Stu moved immediatelv into the construction field. Construction took him all over the west before finally settling him in North Carolina. After nine years of following large-scale construction, Stu moved to a community college where he was a professor heading the Civil Engineering and Surveying Department. He enjoyed working with young people tremendously before his health forced his retirement in 1994. Back fusion, a knee replacement, and prostate and bone cancer rather limited his activities.

His military service was, recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including two Legions of Merit, a Bronze Star, a Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medals, Army and Air Force Commendation Medals, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.  During his limited spare time, he authored two civil engineering texts, and edited his father’s memoirs of Japanese prison camp for publication.

Besides writing, Stu’s activities took him from SCUBA diving and sailing to golf and tennis, while his health still enabled him to participate. As a sideline, he oversaw the construction of numerous personal real estate projects.

After fighting cancer for more than four years, Stu - ever the officer and gentleman - joined his father and brother in the Long Gray Line. 

Grace Gay Thomas, Jr

NO. 17648  •  3 July 1928 - 14 September 1994

Died in Bradenton, FL. Interred in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA.


"G.G.,"as he was known by his classmates and friends, was born in Monroe, LA, the oldest of the 3 children of Grace Gay and Gene Thomas.

In 1935, the family moved to the Panama Canal Zone, where his father worked on the Gatun Locks.

Even at this early age, G.G. assumed responsibility. He watched over and ran interference for his younger brother.

G.G. did extremely well at Cristobal High School, graduating as valedictorian, best athIete, and a member of the Honor Society.

As a cadet, he continued his outstanding work. Those who knew him best describe him as fun-loving with a good sense of humor. This didn't stop him, however, from doing well both academically, in which he vied for first in the class in Spanish, and in leadership, in which he excelled. He was selected to be a lieutenant during First Class year. While a cadet, he met and dated Shirley Schroers. On 28 Oct 1950, they married at St. Joseph, MO. The marriage lasted a lifetime and resulted in two children - Wesley, an architect; and Temple, married to an Army officer - plus 4 beloved grandchildren.

Parachute School was next, followed by assignment to the 505th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, Ft. Bragg, Eighteen years later, he commanded a battalion of the same regiment in Vietnam. Leaving Ft. Bragg, he was assigned to the 187th Airborne RCT in Japan and Korea. There, he received his first Combat Infantryman Badge. His commanding officer, later Army Chief of Staff, remembered that G.G.'s work was of such high quality that he was selected as an aide-de-camp.

Returning to the United States, he was assigned to the Infantry School followed by a tour with the 3d Infantry Regiment at Ft. Myer as Commander of the Honor Guard Company. Subsequently, he had two Pentagon tours, was advisor in Ethiopia, commanded 3 battalions and was G-4 in the 82d Airborne Division, commanded the 8th Division Spt Command in Europe, and was G-3 of XVIII Airborne Corps. He was Chief of War Plans at FORSCOM and then returned to Ft. Bragg, where his career began, to be President of the Airborne Board. He was a graduate of the Command and General Staff College and the War College and received a Master of Science from the University of Alabama.

G.G. was one of the most decorated members of his class, receiving two Combat Infantryman Badges, 4 awards of the Legion of Merit, a Distinguished Flying Cross, 3 Bronze Stars, a Meritorious Service Medal, 7 Air Medals, a Joint Service Commendation Medal, and 7 Army Commendation Medals.

A mere recitation of his assignments and decorations doesn't describe G.G.'s character. One general officer put it this way, "G.G. combined a unique directness with an equally unique dedication and earnestness to do what he believed was right for the Army. And he never let anything, such as rank, interfere with those motives."

In a briefing for this officer, he began, "General, it is very important that you understand this, so I'll keep it as simple as possible."

Another general described him by saying, "G.G.Thomas was one of the most outstanding officers, regardless of rank, that I have known. G.G. was a real professional in every respect and a great human being. The Army is better today because of G.G. Thomas."

G.G.’s commander in Vietnam stated, "When my helicopter went down in enemy territory, G.G. was at my side in minutes to take me to safety. He was always there when you needed him and without asking."

Following retirement, Shirley and G.G. moved to Bradenton, FL, where they became pillars of the community. G.G. spent 14 years at the top level in the banking business. A young banker said, "it is easy to climb the corporate ladder with people like Mr. Thomas pushing you to the top."

He was a director of the Kiwanis Club, a member of the Vestry and Senior Warden of the Episcopal Church, and treasurer of the Bradenton Country Club. These later years provided time for GG to enjoy his love of golfing, fishing, and family.

How do I sum up G.G.’S life? I might point out that he always opted for the right way, not the easy way. He was also compassionate. When the North Koreans released the American POWs, G.G. met his classmates as they returned. On impulse, he gave his original Combat Infantryman Badge to one of them.

He was incapable of telling even a half-truth. To G.G., there was no shade of gray when it came to integrity. It was either 100 percent accurate and true, or it was a damn lie.

He was loyal and caring to his family and friends. He genuinely loved people from all walks of life, and they loved him in return.

At his memorial service, the Priest said, "West Point forged a man of integrity and character, and our nation has been blessed by one to whom 'Duty, Honor, Country' were more than words, but a guiding light to live by.”

- Family and friends

Graham McLeod Sibbles

NO. 17686  •  22 April 1928 - 11 February 1995

Died 11 February 1995 in Coral Gables, Fl. Cremated


GRAHAM McLEOD SIBBLES, "Sib" to many of us, was born in East St. Louis. During his early years, his father's business caused the family to move frequently. After three high schools, he graduated from Little Rock High School in 1945. While enrolled in Louisiana State University, he received his appointment to USMA. Arriving in July 1946, he began his distinguished 34 years in uniform. He was blessed throughout with warm friendships and fond memories, as testified to by the numerous recollections provided for this article.

As a cadet, Sib almost managed to conceal his keen intelligence behind a genial smile and a dry wit, but he also frequently tutored his less gifted classmates. He had a unique capability of rolling with the punches, seldom allowing the TACs to get the better of him. He was on the Corps Squad wrestling team his first three years and managed the team his First Class year, earning a minor "A."  A fine squash player and an avid golfer, he also is remembered as a good overall athlete. He was popular with his classmates and always ready for a good time.

After graduation, Sib attended Parachute School at Ft. Benning. At that time, his family was living in Mobile, and he endeared himself to his classmates by taking them home with him for a "Mobile-style" shrimp dinner, complete with chicory coffee. After Ft. Benning, he joined the 505th  Airborne Infantry Regiment in the 82d Airborne Division at Ft. Bragg.

In October 1950, he married Nancy Lee Murray, whom he had met as a cadet, at her home in New Haven, CT. The next year, while Sib was attending a short course at the Infantry School at Ft. Benning, their oldest son, John, was born. Sib joined many of his classmates in Korea and fought with the 2d Division's 38th Infantry Regiment, winning a Silver Star for bravery in combat. He also earned a Combat Infantryman Badge and a Purple Heart and was medically evacuated to the U.S.

In 1953, Sib was assigned to the faculty at the Infantry School and later was a student at the Advanced Course and the Ranger School. Their second son, David, was born at Ft. Benning and their daughter Susan joined them at their next post with the 8th Division in Germany. In the '60s, Sib graduated from CGSC, then from Mississippi State University, where he earned another bachelor's degree and a master's degree in electrical engineering. After serving on the Army General Staff in Washington, DC, he returned to combat in Viet Nam, where he commanded a support battalion and an Infantry battalion in the 196th Infantry Brigade. There, he was awarded his second Silver Star, the Legion of Merit, and a second Combat Infantryman Badge.

After Viet Nam, he served in the Office of the Army Assistant Vice Chief of Staff and attended the Army War College. He earned his Army aviator’s wings in 1971, when he graduated from Helicopter School. He loved flying every bit as much as he enjoyed his numerous command assignments along the way. That same year, the Sibbles proceeded to Germany, where he commanded the 8th Division's Support Command. He later served on the staff of Allied Forces, Central Europe.

During 1974-78, Graham was the DCSLOG at USMA, bringing his usual enthusiasm to supporting the Corps of Cadets in a period of rapid change and rising costs. Two areas that demanded a great deal of his attention were manufacture of cadet uniforms and operation of the Cadet Mess Hall. Admission of female cadets in 1976 required a myriad of preparations, all subject to the closest scrutiny by the media and the public. Through it all, Sib maintained his sense of humor and perspective in accomplishing the mission.

Again in Washington, Sib supervised development of advanced electronic ideas at the Army's Readiness Command (HQ DARCOM). He retired in 1980 and was awarded his second Legion of Merit. Sib and Nan remained in their home in northern Virginia, and Sib continued to use his extensive knowledge of Army tactics and weaponry at Strategy Corporation in Alexandria. He analyzed futuristic possibilities for ground force command and control, thereby contributing key elements to a lengthy policy study for the Defense Department. He developed the entire military rationale for a company’s multi-volume proposal to replace the Army's Colt 45.

Direct and often innovative, in one instance he almost blew it. Taking the prototype 9mm pistol to a nearby gold dealer to learn its precise weight, he walked in casually with a plain paper bag and pulled out the pistol to explain his purpose. The merchant blanched and reached for the panic button!

Later, Sib earned a Virginia Realtor License and - with his cordial personality and persistence - competed successfully in this notoriously tough sales field, despite a broad real estate slump in the '90s. His penchant for neatness, attention to detail, and his methodical approach to problem solving endeared him to clients and fellow agents, whom he unselfishly assisted.

In 1994, Nan and Sib relocated to the Indian River Retirement Community in Melbourne, FL. As his health began to fail, he demonstrated fortitude and courage in his struggle with cancer. At his death, friends and family gathered at their Melboume home to remember him. At the same time, a "wake" was held by friends in northern Virginia.

He is remembered by his family as a very patient, understanding, loving and supportive father. He was devoted to Nan and the children and loved being a part of their lives - as they loved being a part of his life.

In the words of a former roommate, "Sib will be missed by all who came in contact with him. This red-headed southern gentleman had the ability to accomplish anything he wanted to do, and his career certainly bears that out." Husband, father, soldier, scholar, comrade - that was Graham Sibbles.

- His family and classmates.

Arthur Luther Shemwell, Jr.

NO. 17951  •   12 January 1927 - 17 April 1994

Died in Charlestown, SC.
Interred at Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, SC.


Arthur Luther Shemwell, Jr. was born in Paris, TN, the only child of Arthur Luther and Fay Bell Shemwell. His boyhood was spent in Paris and Nashville, TN. At the age of 9, he first entered military life when he enrolled in the Junior Military Academy in Bloomington Springs, TN.

Following his years there, he moved on to Castle Heights Military Academy in Lebanon, TN. His friend, Dick Brooks has this to say, "When Art entered Castle Heights in September 1941, a 4‑year preparation for his ultimate desire began­ - to graduate frorn West Point and become a Regular Army officer. Art never wavered in his aspirations. He rose through the ranks of cadet life while participating in many activities. He was editor‑ in‑chief of the campus newspaper, president of the Tennessee High School Press Association, and president of the Mississippi Valley Press Association. He was a company captain, president of the Heights‑y, Master Councilor of the Corps chapter of DeMolay, and president of the Class of '45. Art was a member of several academic honorary societies, of the Corps Honor Council, and participated in varsity football and track."

Although WWII was coming to a close in the spring of 1945, no one knew it at the time. Consequently, Art, still in pursuit of his dream of being in the Regular Army, enlisted and was shipped to Camp Robinson, AR. In November 1945, he gained entry to the United States Military Academy Preparatory Program at Amherst College. He followed this prograrn from Amherst to Ft. Benning, GA, and from there entered West Point in July 1946, with an appointment from his representative, J. Perch Priest.

Beast Barracks and the following Plebe year could hold small fears for anyone with 7 years prior military schooling, and Art was no exception. He marched where he was told to march, memorized what he had to memorize, and met the upper classes' harangues with an unflappable calm that must have driven some of them up the wall.

Blithely ignoring the burdens the math and engineering departments attempted to impose, he kept the library busy checking out literature's best. He consumed each copy of the Atlantic Monthly, the Congressional Record, and the New York Times. It was no surprise to his closest classmates to learn that later he earned a master's degree in English from Columbia University.

He taught Sunday School for 3 years in the Protestant Chapel, and for those years, the 11 – year olds were known as "Mr. Shemwell's Class."

Art is remembered for his willingness to expound on philosophy, child psychology, football, or the noble Southland. A close friend and classmate put it best when he said in later years, "Art was a good officer, loyal friend, good husband and father, a credit to West Point, and someone I always enjoyed being with."

Arthur and Joan Erthal were married the day after graduation at West Point. Following graduation leave, they proceeded to Ft. Campbell, KY, for his first assignment in the 188th Airborne Regiment and at Ft. Benning in the 508 AIR.

Art led an active and distinguished military life for 23 years. He served in Germany with the 43d Division, the 169 Infantry Regiment, and Headquarters, EUCOM; in Korea with the 32d Infantry; and with the 47th ARVN in Vietnam.

He earned a master of arts in English at Columbia University with a subsequent assignment teaching English at West Point and later taught at the University of Maryland in Europe and Korea. He earned two Bronze Star Medals, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Legion of Merit, and the Air Medal.

Art retired from the Army in 1973. Initially, he located in Gaffney, SC, where for two years he served as Personnel Manager for Oxford Industries' 13 plants.

Beside his passion to be a Regular Army officer, Art had always harbored a desire to be an attorney This yearning had matured in his final years in the Army and accelerated while at Oxford Industries. At the age of 49, he set out to achieve this goal with the same energetic approach he had used in his earlier years. Art enrolled in the University of South Carolina Law School, graduating in 1979.

He was a member of the South Carolina Bar Association and the Cherokee County Bar Association. Art practiced law in Gaffney for 14 years. In his work, he took great pride in doing what was always central to his nature ‑ helping people.

Arthur and Joan loved to boat and water ski. When it came time to retire, they chose Fripp Island on the coast of South Carolina. They moved to Fripp in 1990.

In 1991, the cancer that caused Art's death was discovered. Art is survived by his wife Joan; daughters Andrea Jones of Hendersonville, TN, and Dr. Gale Rudolph of Highlands Ranch, CO; sons LTC Arthur L. Shernwell III of Ft. Belvoir, VA, and Eric Shemwell of AtIanta, GA, and 4 grandchildren.

His family, friends, and fellow officers remember Art as a scholar, leader, gentleman, friend, husband, and father.

- His family, friends, and classmates

Vaughn Lee Shahinian

NO. 17525  •   14 January 1928 - 18 September 1997

Died in Los Altos, CA.
Interred in the hills of Sierra Nevada.

 

TO KNOW VAUGHN LEE SHAHINIAN was to love him. This vibrant young man from the sun burnt hills of the San Joaquin Valley, CA, was ready for anything and everything with a beaming smile and ready wit. Like so many of our class, Vaughn joined the Army in 1945 after high school graduation, with hopes of earning an appointment to USMA. For Vaughn, this was prompted by the recommendation of a high school counselor.

With other future members of the Class of '50, Vaughn boarded a troop train at Union Station in Los Angeles and headed for a USMA preparatory assignment to a New England college. Always quick to adapt to his environment, Vaughn found time to enjoy the beauties of New England - scenic and otherwise. Vaughn’s appointment to West Point came through, and he entered the Academy in July 1946.

Academics came easily for Vaughn. He studied but was not a grind, and he always was ready to help others less inclined. Vaughn’s ability and determination showed not only in academics but also in sports and other activities. Vaughn had a habit of making hard things seem fun and easy - even picking up rocks off the "new golf course" during Beast Barracks. Later, as B-2's First Sergeant during our First Class year, he made all of us stand tall. Vaughn was a skilled camera enthusiast and gladly introduced many of us to the joys of photography and the creativity possible in the darkroom. A bright moment during Vaughn’s cadet years was noting his father's great pride when his father saw him in cadet gray, as one of the Corps of Cadets.

Conscientious, but not to a fault, Vaughn found pleasure in life, often livening things up for the rest of us within those gray walls. Quick to gather a boodle session and envied for always 'dragging pro, Vaughn was there with the best of them, yet respected enough by his companymates to be their Duty Committee representative. Vaugn’s patience, though, was sometimes stretched to limits because his unmusical roommates could not seem to grasp the simplicity of playing "My Dog Has Fleas" on a ukulele.

Perhaps Vaugn’s friendly smile and demeanor came from the warmth and sunny hills of his native California. Nevertheless, he accepted the faults of others, and never uttered a word of disapproval to those of us who tried to beat the system with short cuts. His sharp wit always enlivened discussions and seemed to set things right. During branch selection, when a roommate noted for occasional forgetfulness considered the Air Force as a choice, Vaughn questioned how one so absent minded could fly a plane. His roommate selected Infantry, and was the better for it.

Ranking in the upper third of the class, Vaughn easily got his choice of assignment in the recently formed Air Force. Part of his graduation leave was passed in a grand tour of Europe with other classmates. After graduation leave, he reported to flight school at Perrin AFB, TX, but, unfortunately, learned that he and the airplane were not quite compatible.Though disappointed, Vaughn, with his typical optimism and perseverance, continued in the non-flying element of the Air Force.

After Airbome Electronics training at Keesler AFB, he served two years at Clark Field in the Philippines as the squadron electronics officer. His final duty was as armament electronics officer for a fighter-interceptor squadron stationed in England. Vaughn resigned as a captain in 1956.

With his usual positive determination, Vaughn put his grasp of science and math to work. He successfully completed a two-year program for a master's degree in structural engineering at Stanford University in 1958, the same year he married Barbara Baird.

In the years that followed, Vaughn worked as a civil engineer until he founded his own company - Vaughn Shahinian Associates - a firm involved in civil and structural engineering projects throughout California and the western U.S.

Vaughn pursued many interests. He was an accomplished skier and even kept up with Barbara's tennis game. At West Point, Vaughn often talked about the royal sport of kings – falconry - he had practiced as a young lad in California. Now, in the great expanse of the California hills, Vaughn and Barbara practiced the great sport with their trained peregrine and goshawks for a number of years. Interestingly, falconry is a sport pre-historic in origin and dating back to Vaughn's ancestors - the ancient kings of Persia. Indeed, Shahinian is Armenian for "king of kings." Though proud of his ancestry, Vaughn never spoke of royalty, although his life certainly reflected well on his noble heritage.

Vaughn’s sudden illness and passing was a shock to his family. Barbara, his wife of 39 years; his sister, Paula Kuklinski; and his uncle, Lee Shahinian, survive him.

- Roommates Vernon A. Quarstein and Dick Steuart

Lilbern Beryl Roberts

NO. 17743  •  9 September 1924 – 13 February 1991

Died 13 February 1991 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, aged 66 years
Interment: The Washington Crossing Methodist Church Cemetery, Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania


LILBERN WAS BORN 9 September 1924 in Rochester, Missouri to Garnet and Norman Roberts. He was a serious young boy who excelled in school, especially in mathematics and science. He was very active in the Boy Scouts and inevitably became an Eagle Scout.

He graduated from Central High School in St Joseph, Missouri and attended St Joseph Junior College for a semester until he joined the Army Air Corps in March 1943. Lilbern became "Bob" upon enter­ing the service, but he remained Lilbern to his family and friends in Missouri.

He completed a six‑month airplane (B‑24) mechanics course at Keesler Field, Mississippi and an aerial gunnery school at Laredo, Texas. He remained at Laredo and served as a gunnery instructor for the re­mainder of World War II.  Bob was appointed to West Point through the Army. He attended Amherst College from 1945-­46 in preparation for his studies at West Point, and in July of 1946 he began his four years at the Academy, along with many other World War II  veterans. As a cadet, he was a member of the Radio Club, the photographic editor for The Pointer magazine and var­sity manager of the cross country team.

I met Bob on a blind date in November 1949 at the Penn‑Army game in Philadel­phia. For me, it was love at first sight. I never doubted that he would become my husband. After graduation Bob was as­signed to Fort Bliss, Texas, and was soon transferred to Fort Dix, New Jersey. We were married in Teaneck, New Jersey on 3 February 1951.

Bob served in Korea from 1952‑1953 with the 105mm Field Artillery Battery and was reassigned to Japan for an additional year. He resigned from the Army in No­vember 1954 and started his civilian career with Alcoa in Edgewater, New Jersey. Bob completed his Master's Degree in Indus­trial Engineering at New York University night school. Bob also became active in the National Guard and, later, the Army Re­serves, attaining the rank of colonel.

He worked for ITT for about 10 years. Some of that time was with Federal Elec­tric Corporation, a subsidiary of ITT, which was involved with maintaining the DEWLINE‑ Distant Early Warning System.

In 1976, Bob joined Mobil Oil Corporation's engineering department in Princeton, New Jersey, and we settled in Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania. Bob worked in Indonesia a short time and trav­eled to Saudi Arabia and Australia.

In 1979, Bob was diagnosed with non-­Hodgkin's Lymphoma, which curtailed most job‑related traveling. Bob main­tained a positive attitude all his life. He lived with cancer for 11 years, and I can't remember him ever complaining. He was concerned only for others, and he could always reverse the conversation to center on friends and family rather than on himself.

Bob was well liked and respected by everyone who knew him. He had a special rapport with children of all ages. I know he touched many of their lives. To me, he epitomized the word "gentleman," for he was always such a kind and gentle man.

Bob remained loyal and faithful to "The Corps" and to his country. He had a strong Christian faith which was a comfort and strength for him.

He is survived and deeply missed by four children: Dwight, David, Linda and Cornelia; his wife, Nancy; and nine grand­daughters.

"That which we lose, we mourn, but must rejoice that we have ever had."

- C.J. Wells

Louis Arthur Reinken, Jr.

NO. 17912  •  

Died 14 January 1993 in Little Silver, New Jersey, aged 65 years
Interment: Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia


MERE WORDS cannot describe or explain the deep loss felt by the family and friends of Colonel Louis A. Reinken, Jr.  As Major General J. K. Stoner, who eulogized Lou stated:

"Lou is remembered as a man whose gift to life was a combination of caring, concern, happiness, and enjoyment along with an ever‑present smile. He was a dedicated soldier, friend, loving father and husband, respected community leader and successful businessman."

Lou participated in the landing at Inchon, Korea in September 1950 and was awarded the Silver Star for bravery in action in Hung Nam, Korea. Following an assignment at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, he was then posted to Stuttgart, Germany, where he served as aide‑de‑camp to the Chief of Staff, VII Corps Artillery. He later commanded a 280mm battery of the 868th Field Artillery Battalion in Baumholder, Germany.

Lou also served with the 3d AAA Group of Norfolk Air Defense followed by the Advanced Course at Fort Sill in 1956. He remained there as an instructor in the Gunnery Department until 1959. His next assignment was advisor to the Commandant of Cadets at the Vietnamese Military Academy in Dalat, Vietnam.

Nineteen hundred and sixty‑one brought him to Clemson University as Assistant Professor, Military Science (ROTC). Returning to Korea in 1965, he commanded the 6th Battalion, 37th Artillery. Upon his graduation from the Command and General Staff College in 1967, he served as Chief, Unit Training Branch, DCS, OPNS, Third Army, Fort McPherson, Georgia.

Lou loved Europe, and in 1969 he returned as Chief, Special Weapons Branch, in the Land Operations Division of Allied Forces, Central Europe in Brunsom, Netherlands. Upon his promotion to Colonel in 1970, he was stationed in Stuttgart again as Depuly G3, VII Corps, and then as executive officer, Vll Corps Artillery.

While stationed in Germany at Kelly Barracks, Lou met and fell in love with Renate Haas, a fashion designer. Lou and Renate were married on 28 October 1972.

Notwithstanding these wonderful career and personal accomplishments, Lou was a private and behind‑the‑scenes person. He rarely ever appeared in the front row. That just was not the central focus of his life. This was reserved for Renate and his two sons of a previous marriage, Louis Ill and Dirk Christian. In conversations with Lou's many friends, it was agreed that the love and devotion that passed between Lou and Renate was as no other. This is the inner Lou we all will remember. He was a man whose greatest goals seemed riveted to the standard of service to his family, his friends, his community, his Army and his Country. His motivation always related to making somebody else happy or at ease in their life.

In July 1974, the Reinkens returned to the US and Lou became Director of Plans and Analysis in the US Army Electronics Command, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. They made their new home in Little Silver, New Jersey. In January 1979, Lou was assigned as Chief of Staff of the US Army Communications and Electronics Material Readiness Command and retired on 31 July 1980 from active duty with great honors after 30 years of dedicated service.

After retirement, Lou became more involved in community affairs, real estate, traveling and remodelling their home in Little Silver. Fort Monmouth stayed close and to quote General Stoner again: "Louis' influence on the human side of the Fort Monmouth Community expanded beyond the limits of his assigned tasks into areas like the interaction of Fort Monmouth and the governances of the surrounding communities, and ultimately into every niche in which people interaction was key."

The feeling of warmth and friendship always surrounded Lou and Renate through the years. They were content, happy and fulfilled with their lives and love for each other. Lou's 65th birthday was celebrated on 28 August 1992. Louis III of San Francisco and Dirk Christian of Rhode Island were surprise arrivals.

The celebration continued, and, on 28 October, the Reinken's celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary. Lou's words to friends were always, "Well, we like the first 20 years, so let’s renew the contact for the next 20."

On 4 November, Lou was hospitalized with phlebitis and diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer. He was given less than two months to live. Lou came home from the hospital and spent his remaining time with his family and friends without a single word of complaint despite tremendous pain. Lou passed away quietly at home on 14 January 1993, demonstrating his strength, dignity, love and faith. His last words to Renate were, "I love you, sweetheart."

No words can describe the void, pain and loss to family and friends. The gift of his life, love and memory is eternal and  will serve as a bridge to the future for all who knew Lou and miss him so much.

Lou typified the true spirit of a caring and loving father and husband; an outstanding officer and gentleman; and a true son of this country and a man of West Point.

Colonel Louis Arthur Reinken, Jr.'s decorations include the Silver Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and the Legion of Merit.

Lewis Andrew Pick, Jr.

NO. 17767  •  

Died 28 October 1993 in Opelika, Alabama, aged 65 years
Interment: Pine Hills Cemetery, Auburn, Alabama

 

LEWIS ANDREW PICK, JR., was born in New Orleans, where his father was serving with the Corps of Engineers. During his boyhood he lived at various Army posts and civil works locations. His father was to become one of the outstanding Army engineers of World War II, the builder of "Pick's Pike," a 425 mile section of the Ledo Road. Andy attended Culver Military Academy, graduating in 1945.

Andy's red hair and dynamic personality brought him early attention from both the upperclassmen and his congenial classmates in K‑2. The Howitzer highlighted his self-confidence, friendly manner, and ability to add zest to any gathering.

Andy's first assignment after graduation in June of 1950 was with the Field Artillery, 3rd Infantry Division. He deployed with the Division from Fort Benning to Korea, where he served as a forward observer. He took part in the division's 1950 and 51 campaigns and was awarded the Silver Star.

Upon returning to the United States. he transferred from the Field Artillery to the Corps of Engineers and was assigned to the

Engineer School as an instructor in tactics. He next was detailed to military construction projects in the Savannah District. After a year he returned to Fort Belvoir to attend the Advanced Course. In December of 1954, he and Frances Boddie of Valdosta, Georgia were married and made their first home at Fort Belvoir. It is hard to imagine a better suited pair than Fran and Andy.

About this time Andy began to show an interest in finance. He could stay abreast of his classes and still display a thorough familiarity with the contents of the Wall Street Journal. He wanted to know how businesses worked and knew that finance was the language of business. This interest was to be helpful in his later business career. After receiving a masters in engineering at Princeton, Andy and Fran sailed for Germany in 1956 where he was assigned to the 540th Engineer Combat Group. He commanded a separate Engineer company and later served as an operations officer for the group. Andy was a man of ideas; ideas he supported enthusiastically but with a fervor tempered by realism and humor. He ran a good unit and was willing to share his ideas. He also shared the credit for successes, resulting in more successes.

Troop duty in Europe was followed by ROTC duty, C&GSC, and service in Vietnam as Engineer advisor to the Vietnamese I Corps at Danang. He then was assigned as assistant director of Civil Works in the Office of the Chief of Engineers. His expertise in policy issues on the Army's civil functions resulted in his assignment as executive officer to the assistant secretary of the Army for Civil Works.

In 1972 Andy had a difficult decision to make: to remain on active duty or retire to Auburn, Alabama to direct his family's real estate and construction business. Regretfully, he gave up the certainty of positions of great responsibility in the Army to shoulder his  family obligations. He returned to the small southern town that had been home to his family since 1892.

On the morning of the first day on the new job in Auburn, Andy had a small framing crew, one truck and an office in his mother's house. "Let's go to work" was the brief assumption of command speech. From these humble beginnings Andy became the man labeled "The Forefather of Development in Auburn." Fran joined in the fray, going to work for the first time since her marriage. Raw land was cleared, subdivisions were developed, houses and commercial buildings were constructed and sold, and the business prospered. Andy believed in making the American dream of home ownership available to the residents of Auburn.

While helping to fulfill the needs of Auburn's new home market, Andy looked at the student body of Auburn University and saw a potential market for students wanting to escape the substandard housing that existed. In 1977 he built Eagles West Apartments, a 240‑unit complex located across the street from the campus.

At an age when most people were retiring and relaxing, Andy gained ownership control and became chairman of MESA Industries, Inc., which was transformed from a struggling company to a successful corporation with operations in seven states.

An idealist as well as a practical person, Andy entered into local politics and supported worthwhile organizations. He was a Sunday school teacher until the end of his life. Although he shared his time and laughter with old and new friends, he was, at heart, a family man who adored his daughter Betsy and sons Andrew and Charles and well as grandchildren Cary Frances and Edward.

Although he had undergone open heart surgery eight years before his death, it did not seem to affect his enthusiasm or energy. The news of the final attack was a shock to everyone, including his classmates who had seen him at a mini‑reunion in Florida two weeks earlier. His last words before  leaving to join the Long Gray Line were  "When do we start?"

John Victor Parish, Jr.

NO. 17427  •  4 August 1926 - 9 August 1993

Died in Huntington Beach, CA
Interred, in Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, CA


John Victor Parish, Jr. was born to John V. and Helen Hahn Parish in Youngstown, OH. He attended Bullis Preparatory School for several months following graduation from South High School in Youngstown, OH, in 1944. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving from July to December 1945 and was appointed to West Point by Representative M.J. Kirwan of the 19th Congressional District of Ohio. He entered the Academy as a member of the Class of '50.

Jack arrived at the Academy well‑prepared to cope with its challenges and with a disposition, extensive experience, and the abilities to help his classmates cope with them too. A generous and gifted person with an abundance of energy, his never‑failing optimism and good humor were inspirations that touched us all. And for Jack, humor began with his ability to laugh (invariably at himself). Those who knew Jack would agree with the 1950 Howitzer, that says of him, "Jack had a habitual good nature and a friendliness toward all that is very rare. If ever a man needed some timely assistance, Jack was always ready and quick to help. He was dependable in every way, and worked hard in studies and athletics. Jack faced life as a sportsman should. His presence in any outfit or command in the Army will be most welcome."

As a cadet, Jack seemed to find time for everything, including a class standing in the top 12% of his class. Corps squad boxing, lacrosse, and track along with belonging to the Cadet handball, Camera, and Art Clubs were all part of his interests and activities. Quick intellectually, articulate,. and widely read, it was common to witness Jack devoting study periods to reading a novel, composing poetry, or listening to classical music while his roommates labored to keep up with daily assignments. Following Jack's discovering Peg Darragh in his third class year, letter writing, dragging, and occasional trips to New York City impinged even further upon time that most of us reserved for academics. Long before branch choices were made, it was well known that Jack would be an Engineer. And, an outstanding Engineer he became.

Jack’s contributions over his entire Army career reflect his most significant attribute: leadership. Ranging from his first assignment in 1950 as a second lieutenant platoon leader in the 18th Engineer Combat Battalion in Germany followed by command of a company as a first lieutenant, to Division Engineer, Huntsville, AL, he sought leadership positions throughout his career. Although Jack’s tour as an Army attache at the U.S. Embassy in Cairo from 1958‑60 was a departure from the normal career pattern for an Engineer, he once said that he must have been an effective, hard‑working, and impartial attache because he was appreciated by both the Egyptians and the Israelis. In 1967, while a battalion commander in the OCS command at Ft. Belvoir, he requested assignment to Vietnam, serving for one year with great distinction as commander of the 35th Engineer Combat Battalion.

In addition to branch courses, Jack's education included a master of science in civil engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology; study of Arabic at the Defense Language School, Monterey, CA; and the Army War College.

After retirement from the Army in 1977, Jack joined the Federal Railway Administration, where he worked on engineering projects for the Northeast Corridor. After a year and a half, however, separated by the breadth of a continent from their children and lured by memories of the Pacific Coast, Jack and Peg decided they were ready for another major change in their lives. Jack sought employment with Fluor Corporation in California and, when an opportunity occurred, the Parish family made their last move ‑ to Huntington Beach. Here, for the next fourteen years, Peg and Jack spent the most satisfying period of their lives. In 1990, Jack was unexpectedly diagnosed as being in an advanced stage of cancer. Following a period of treatment and a promising remission, the cancer recurred. Offered participation in a pilot immunotherapy program conducted by the National Institutes of Health, Jack accepted. He dealt with this difficult period in a way true to his character – he joked, for example, that Max, his German Shepherd, didn’t recognize him any longer. Mcdications in the experimental treatment had changed his scent and the dog was puzzled, causing Jack to ask on one occasion, "How will I ever again convince Max that this strange‑smelling man is his master?" The experimental treatment was not successful. Jack died and was buried in Riverside National Cemetery. He is survived by his wife Peg of Huntington Beach, CA; and children: Richard of Irving, CA; Christie Gillis of Hayward, CA, Carolyn Curtis of San Diego, CA; and David of Seattle, WA. Jack is also survived and will always be remembered by his many friends. We all carry a part of Jack with us.

Charles Junior Osterndorf

NO. 17449  •  12 January 1927 – 16 November 1990

Died 16 November 1990 in San Antonio, Texas, aged 63 years
Interment: Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas

 

CHARLES JUNIOR OSTERNDORF was born in Platteville, Wisconsin on 12 January 1927 to Charles and Minna Osterndorf. In 1944, like many American families with no previous condition of military service, the Osterndorfs had two sons fighting in Europe and the Pacific. Chuck, only 17 at the time, sought to join them. He was inducted into the Army Reserve and assigned to the Army Specialized Training Program (ASTP) in engineering at the University of Wisconsin. At the conclusion of the academic year, Chuck was inducted into the Army and sent to Fort Robinson, Arkansas for basic training. He was offered the opportunity to continue in the ASTP and was sent to the Virginia Polytechnic Institute for additional schooling in civil engineering. He subsequently was accepted to Engineer Officer Candidate School at Fort Belvoir, where, about a month and a half into the program, his commanding officer, offering congratulations and a cigar, informed Chuck that he had been accepted to West Point.

Thus, Chuck was a little more worldly than most of his classmates when he joined the Long Gray Line that fine summer day, 1 July 1946. His experience notwithstanding, Chuck found Beast Barracks quite a challenge, one that he was sorely tempted to forego. However, a family with a newly established military heritage and a generations ‑ old tradition of never quitting, wouldn't hear of it. With firm resolve, Chuck applied himself to the task and graduated in the top 20 percent of his class on 6 June 1950 and was commissioned into the Corps of Engineers.

His post‑graduation leave was cut short, however, with the advent of the Korean War. Within months, Chuck found himself with the 62d Engineer Construction Battalion in Korea. This hazardous and demanding first assignment was the cornerstone of a distinguished career that found Chuck serving in a variety of demanding positions. Subsequent assignments included Resident Engineer on Baffin Island in the Aleutians, Assistant Resident Engineer in the Azores, a tour in the Military Assistance Advisory Group in Taiwan, and command of the 13th Engineer Battalion in Korea. West Point also beckoned, and in 1957, after obtaining a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering at MIT, Chuck returned to the shores of the Hudson to teach in the Department of Mechanics. Chuck's last several assignments  with the Corps of Engineers, Huntsville District, and with the New England Division, and finally with the Engineer School as Deputy Assistant Commandant, capped a distinguished career. He retired in 1977 and headed for Texas.

Chuck's love for the Army remained strong, but devotion to his family was his first priority. He had met Evelyn Kruschel in Milwaukee, and they married on 31 May 1952. Though Evelyn had never left Milwaukee before, she became his steadfast partner throughout the ensuing odyssey. They were joined by Brian in 1954 and Steve in 1956, and life became a series of Cub and Boy Scout meetings, Little League games and church activities. Chuck had always said that the only success that really counted was measured by and through the children. He was quite a champion.

Retirement from the Army brought an unaccustomed but welcomed stability. Chuck and Evelyn bought a house on a golf course in Austin, Texas and quickly came to enjoy life in the Hill Country. Chuck's work with the Texas State Department of Parks and Wildlife kept him busy, but he continued to pursue lifelong bobbies of golf and playing the piano. Happily, his enthusiasm for both avocations was never diminished by his inability to master either.

The happiness ended far too soon with the diagnosis in 1987 of the rare and incurable blood disease that led to Chuck's death. The physical toll of the disease, which robbed him of all his vigor and strength, could not daunt the spirit, and he faced the certain end with courage and composure. West Point lost one of its finest on 16 November 1990.

Chuck is survived by Evelyn, who now lives in San Antonio, Brian (USMA Class of 1976), Steve, Steve's son Daniel, whom Chuck greatly enjoyed, and Brian's daughter, Lydia, whom Chuck never had the chance to meet.

William G. O'Quinn

NO. 17714  •  30 April 1928 - 12 September 1999

Died 12 September 1999 in Jackson, SC
Interred in St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church, Augusta, GA

 

WILLIAM GEORGE O'QUINN was born in Waycross, GA. in April 1928 to Mr. and Mrs. James Foster O'Quinn. He lived in Patterson, GA, where he attended Patterson High School. He left Patterson High his junior year and enrolled in Georgia Military College. Bill received his appointment and entered West Point in 1946.

At the Academy, Bill was popular, well-liked, and known for his easygoing, unhurried attitude. When those around him were in real tizzies, Bill was cool, calm, and collected as if in the eye of the storm, frequently declaring "Ah, jes ain' gonna worree 'bout it." His intelligence allowed him to handle academics easily, and indulge himself in all phases of photography and spend considerable time playing bridge. His real passion, however, was dancing. It is said, in four years, Bill never missed a hop.

In June 1950, Bill was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Infantry and was off to Germany for three years. Upon return to the U.S., he was stationed at Ft. Jackson. Because of arthritis and hearing problems, he received an Honorable Discharge on 21 Jan 1955 and returned to Patterson.

In 1956, Bill attended the University of Georgia to earn his master's degree. He taught math and physics and tutored students as well. When offered a position with the Atomic Energy Commission in Aiken, SC, he accepted and purchased a home in Beech Island, SC. During his employment with the Department of Energy he attended North Carolina State University.

In August 1963, Bill married Lorraine, who had four children from a previous marriage - Constance, Marilyn, Alan, and Joan. Bill and Lorraine established residence in Jackson, SC, and Bill became involved in school activities. He provided endless opportunities for the children, ranging from flying lessons to photography, music lessons, and ballroom dancing. He allowed them to make their own academic choices, while giving them unconditional love, support, and experiences they passed on to their children and extended families.

Bill's hobbies were flying, sports, television, playing bridge, chess, reading, and ballroom dancing. He owned a Tri-Pacer plane and another plane called "The Zulu," in which he enjoyed flying and visiting family and friends.

Developing a taste for fine wines, Bill was very proud of maintaining his very own wine cellar, installing an air conditioner to control the temperature. In 1974, while still with the Atomic Energy Commission, he established a real estate business that became a very successful venture. Bill interviewed prospective candidates for entry into West Point and was an active member of the West Point Society of Augusta. He also was a member of the Elks Lodge 205 in Augusta, GA.

Though his loyalty to Army’s Black Knights never wavered, having earned his graduate degree at the University of Georgia, he was an enthusiastic supporter of the Georgia Bulldogs. He attended all their home games and never missed the  trip to Jacksonville for the notorious Georgia-Florida game.

Bill was a kind man. He was gentle. patient, caring, and loved by all who knew him. He was a silent giver, expecting nothing in return. He left his family a great legacy and will be missed. On a Sunday morning in September 1999, at 6:15, Bill died from a stroke and an inoperable brain tumor. He was cremated and interred in the Memorial Courtyard at St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church, Augusta, GA, where he was a member.

James M. Nold

NO. 17846  •  12 February 1928 – 23 August 1999

Died in Littleton, CO
Interred in Ft. Logan Cemetery, Denver, CO


JAMES MILLER NOLD was a great guy, and we miss him dearly. It seems like it was only yesterday, but it was “way back” in 1946 when those of us in Company H-2 first encountered Jim’s friendliness, enormous enthusiasm, generosity, ready smile, and his relentness  determination to succeed in the face of all obstacles – characteristics we admitted then, as we do now.

Jim was an “Army Brat,” as his father was a distinguished Army Engineer. He was born at Fort Leavenworth while his father was PMS&T at the University of Kansas – Lawrence. In the course of his dad’s assignments, Jim attended various secondary schools, including Ketchikan High School in Alaska and Culver Military Academy and Nappanee High School in Indiana, from whence he received his congressional appointment to USMA.

While a cadet, Jim engaged himself impetuously in a wide variety of activities. He had a particular passion for “inter-murder” football, and as luck would have it, in the first game during Plebe year, he broke his jaw and was constrained to eating his meals with a straw. That hardly slowed Jim down, however, and certainly did not dampen his enthusiasm. He continued to strive, and he continued to experience more injuries. As one acquaintance put it, “It wasn’t that he wasn’t athletic, but ‘things’ just happened.” The following year, he ended up with a broken collar bone, but neither incident dampened his enthusiasm for football.

Jim and Mary married just after graduation, and together they headed for Jump School at Fort Benning, followed by an assignment to the 82d Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, N.C., where son Bobby was born. While Jim was an avid paratrooper, the Korean War was taking place and Jim “chomped at the bit” to ride to the sound of the guns. He was impatient at the unavoidable attendance at the Company Officers’ Course at the Infantry School before deploying to Korea, where all those in the course had orders to report to the Port of Embarcation with a delay en route during Christmas.

In his eagerness, Jim reported ahead of the others and was already proceeding by ship when they checked in. He was assigned to the 35th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division. Shortly after his arrival, while conducting a reconnaissance in the Punchbowl, Jim was seriously wounded in the head.

For a while, the prognosis of his recovery was discouraging. The injury to his brain left him paralyzed on his right side, strongly affecting his ability to speak. Miraculously, though, he began to mend. After a lot of hard work and a brace on his leg, he gradually regained his ability to walk. While he was recuperating at Walter Reed Army Hospital and still unable to talk, one of his doctors predicted, in his presence, that Jim would never recover his math ability. Jim strongly disagreed, but since he was unable to speak, he grabbed something to write with and began scribbling math equations.

Speech, however, was tougher, and Jim struggled to be able to talk. He clearly had his heart set on returning to active duty, for one of his first spoken words – expressing his determination to get back on parachute status – was “Geronimo!” Despite Jim’s heroic efforts, his injury ultimately limited his progress. Nontheless, resourceful and determined to be able to communicate, Jim developed a sort of shorthand way of speaking, using stock phrases that enabled him to be understood. “Fine as frog hairs” was one many recall, because it illustrates his unfailing good humor and sunny outlook on life.

Mary’s splendid support and encouragement helped enormously with Jim’s recovery. She was a tower of strength. She once told us in good humor, “He and (his son) Bobby are learning to walk and talk at the same time!”

Jim was medically retired from the Army he loved, but he continued to fight hard to recover his physical abilities. He enrolled in college, worked hard physically and academically, and became a successful electrical engineer.

He was first employed by Martin-Marietta in Denver and then by the Bureau of Reclamation in the Department of the Interior. Jim’s department was later transferred to the Department of Energy and became the Western Area Power Administration. He was very much admired there, in 1987, retired. Jim, Mary, son Robert, and daughter Emily settled in Littleton, CO, just outside Denver, where he formed a coterie of close and admiring friendships.

Despite some lingering effects of his injury, classmates visiting Jim were amazed at his almost miraculous recovery from his catastrophic wound. He was “sharp as a tack,” and he played good bridge. Associates in the Department of Energy attest to his excellence in chess and to his love for fine classical music.

Jim died in August 1999 and is interred at Fort Logan National Cemetery outside Denver. As one classmate put it, “He was certainly the stuff from which good soldiers are made.”

Howard S. Mitchell

NO. 17671  •  10 Sep 1927 - 7 Mar 1998

Died in Columbia, SC
Inurned in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA


Howard Savage Mitchell was born in Queens Village, Long Island, NY, to James Murray and Alta Anderson Mitchell. He grew up in Long Island, along with his brothers James Edisto and Francis William Mitchell. Just prior to Howard's birth, Howard's father, an ex?serviceman and aspiring young artist, had gone on board the liner Leviathon to receive the congratulations of GEN Pershing and Howard Savage, the commander of the American Legion, for winning the $ 1000 prize in the American Legion poster contest. James and Alta thereupon decided to name their son Howard Savage. Commander Savage was advised of this action and radioed back the following reply: "Deeply honored news your radio. Convey to Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell my best wishes and that I shall look forward to seeing my young namesake on my return." This naming continued the Mitchell family tradition of more than 200 years of service to the country, earning the family the title of "one family, seven wars" in the 4 Mar 1991 issue of Life magazine. That Howard would choose a military career was no surprise.

Howard was an honor student at Brooklyn Technical High School for three years (1941-44). For his final year of high school, he attended the Wooster Boys School in Danbury, CT, from which he graduated in 1945 as the class valedictorian. At Wooster he played varsity basketball, football, and baseball. Prior to receiving a principal appointment to the Military Academy by Congressman Henry Latham, Howard attended Tufts College in Medford, MA, in the Navy V5 program, and then the USMA Preparatory School at Ft. Benning, GA, graduating in June 1946.

Nicknamed "Mitch" by his Academy classmates and blessed with a keen mind and sense of humor, Howard adjusted well to cadet life. He served as the art editor of The Pointer for all four of his cadet years, and he was a member of the Art Club and the Cadet Chapel choir. Activities similar to these continued on after graduation, reflecting his lifelong passion for the finer things in life ? from Dixieland Jazz to painting still?lifes of his beloved Edisto Island, SC, where his parents were born and raised.

His first assignment after graduation was with the 33rd Infantry Division at Ft. Kobe, Panama Canal Zone. He returned to his hometown, Queens Village, to marry JoAn Thompson on 5 Aug 1951. They returned to Ft. Kobe, remaining there until 1953. Howard's next assignments were with the 101st Airborne Division, Ft. Jackson, SC (1954-55); duty as a rifle company commander with the 7th Infantry Division, Korea (1956-57), for which he was awarded a Commendation Medal; and service as an assistant professor of military science at DePaul University, Chicago (1958-61). It was during his assignment at DePaul that daughter Suzanne Mary and son Michael Murray became members of the Mitchell family.

In 1962, the family departed for Okinawa while Howard was serving with the First Special Forces Group (Green Berets) in Viet Nam as the "B" Team Commander (1962-64). While there he was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge. After graduating from the Army Command and General Staff College in 1965, he went to the US. Continental Army Command (CONARC) at Ft. Monroe, VA until 1966, where he received another Army Commendation Medal. He then was the assistant chief of staff, G-3, Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division, Korea, until 1968, when he returned to Headquarters, CONARC. He earned the Meritorious Service Medal for his service there. In 1970, Howard went back to Viet Nam, this time serving as deputy, assistant chief of staff, G-3, Headquarters, XXIV Corps. The Bronze Star and Legion of Merit were awarded to him for this service. In 1971, he was the commander of the 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Division in Viet Nam, earning another Bronze Star and an Air Medal. From 1972 to 1973, Howard was assigned to the U.S. Combat Development Command, Ft. Belvoir, VA, receiving his third Army Commendation Medal. Also in 1973, the family gained another member, son Christopher Thomas. From 1973 to 1978, Howard was the Senior Advisor for the 218th Infantry Brigade of the SC National Guard, Newberry, SC. At the end of this tour, on his retirement on 1 Aug 1978, LTC Mitchell was awarded a second Legion of Merit. His other awards included the National Defense Medal, Senior Parachutist Badge, China and Viet Nam Parachutist Badges, the Viet Nam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, the Viet Nam Service Medal, the Viet Nam Campaign Medal, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.

During retirement, Howard earned an MBA from the University of South Carolina. Unfortunately, in 1982, he suffered a massive stroke when he fell from the roof of his home in Columbia, SC. True to form, his first words in the hospital were, "Get that damn dog off of me!" The family boxer had been licking his face for several hours comforting Howard until his accident was discovered. He spent months recovering, eventually learning again to drive, swim, and pilot his motor boat on nearby Lake Murray. He enjoyed painting with a local artist, "Griff" and visiting his family and friends. In December 1997 he suffered another stroke and died a few months later at the VA Hospital in Columbia. Howard is survived by his beloved wife, JoAn, his daughter, two sons, and two grandsons.

Howard was proud to be a lifelong "grunt" and also proud of how his family has always been part of the military. In the 4 Mar 1991 issue of Life, he said, "I sometimes wonder how I got wrapped up in the Service. I went to the Academy and then just kept at it. It was my career. I guess old Francis Marion would be happy."

We are happy and proud to have had you as a husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Your achievements earned you the deepest respect of all who knew you. We miss you deeply.

- Daughter Suzanne Mitchell

David S. Meredith III

NO. 17772  •  26 Jun 1928 - 12 Nov 1998

Died in Hobe Sound, FL
Interned in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA


David Sutton Meredith III was born and grew up deep in east Texas. He had his first taste of life as a soldier in high school, attending Kemper Military School in Boonville, MO. He earned his diploma and left with a love of military life that never waned for the rest of his days. He was a soldier's soldier.

Dave entered the Academy in 1946 to face the joys of Beast Barracks but took plebe year in stride, breezing through with a minimum of demerits - four years of military high school prepared him well for the rigorous discipline and the other pleasures of the 4th estate. Dave assumed a laid-back attitude regarding academics and neither excelled nor struggled. One course, however, fired his enthusiasm - Military History. Always an avid student of the American Civil War, he devoured everything he could find written on his favorite subject.

After graduation, Dave was commissioned Infantry and joined the 82d Airborne at Ft. Bragg. There he met and married, on 10 Feb 1951, the love of his life, a local belle, Anne Byrd MacArthur. Dave found himself Korea-bound in early 1952 for a tour with the 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team. There he earned his first Combat Infantryman Badge, as well as a Bronze Star. Anne Byrd joined Dave in Japan, and they had a wonderful time traveling and learning about Japanese culture, which fascinated them.

For the next few years, Dave had a number of stateside airborne assignments, serving in the 504th Airborne Infantry Regiment and with Headquarters, XVIIIth Airborne Corps, before being assigned as a Reserve Officer Training Corps instructor at Dayton University. After ROTC, he attended Command and General Staff College.

Next came one of his toughest assignments, the Naval Intelligence School in Washington, DC, where he was given the formidable task of mastering German. Not a linguist by nature, his classmates could detect the toll taken on his usually sunny disposition by his intense study of German. Dave finally mastered the language well enough to give lectures in German on counter-insurgency, teaching at the NATO school at Oberammergau, the familys favorite assignment. Next, Dave became an exchange officer with a German unit, learning the art of mountain warfare in the cold, clear air of the German mountains.

After Germany, Dave earned an MBA from the University of Alabama, in preparation for a stay in the Pentagon. There, he prepared material used by his bosses to testify before Congressional committees to justify financing the development of new weapons systems for the Army and earned a Commendation Medal.

In 1968, Dave was posted to Viet Nam, initially as a brigade executive officer, later as a battalion commander in the 27th Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. Dave caught a round in his right leg, which shattered several bones and came to rest in his thigh, where it remained for the rest of his life. He was hit while defending Fire Support Base Mahon, constructed by Dave's battalion, at Cu Chi. The firebase had come under mounting pressure from a large enemy force for several days, culminating in a massive night assault that penetrated the base defenses. Although Dave was wounded while

leading his troops in the firefight, they repelled the attackers, saving the firebase. The citation for his Silver Star stated, "With complete disregard for his own safety, Colonel Meredith exposed himself to the deadly hail ofenemy fire directed at him as he personally led the counter attack against the insurgents." His wound dictated a return to the United States with his well-deserved Silver Star, a Legion of Merit, two Air Medals, a second Combat Infantryman Badge, and a Purple Heart.

After a year in the Pentagon, Dave attended the Army War College, then returned to Germany, to the delight of the Meredith family. Dave's daughter recalls her father, ever conscious of his obligation to care for his troops, relieving the sentry at the Post gate on Christmas Eve, taking the sentrys place so the soldier could enjoy the holiday. Dave's final duty assignment was at Ft. Meade, where he served as Deputy Post Commander before retiring in 1980.

Anne Byrd and Dave chose Hobe Sound, FL, for their retirement home, selecting a house on a canal so Dave could pursue his interest in sailing. He attended a school to learn seamanship and celestial navigation but soon found that Anne Byrd did not share his love of matters nautical. Because they liked doing things together, Dave did not find much use for the handsome sailboat that sat moored to the dock behind their house.

Ever the lover of history, Dave discovered a former coast guard facility in nearby Jupiter that had been taken over by the Navy during VvViII (to play a vital role in combating German depredation of U.S. shipping). The Navy operated a listening post that gathered naval intelligence by monitoring German radio communications. Little was known about this activity, but after some arm twisting, Dave persuaded the Navy to provide him with the material, much still classified, upon which he based his book, S

py Station Jupiter: A History ofthe US. NavalSupplementag Radio Stationjupiter, Flo?ida. When not reading or writing history, Dave served as treasurer of the Florida chapter of the "Rakkasans," veterans of his old Korean outfit, and participated in numerous Veterans of Foreign Wars aflairs. Dave, his sense of duty alive and well, never stopped contributing.

No memorial to Dave Meredith would be complete without a few words about the warm generosity that was so much a part of his character. He was generous to a fault, as was Anne Byrd, and the hospitality they lavished upon their friends had no peer. Many of us will always cherish the memory of their company and the good times they invariably provided to those fortunate enough to have been their friends.

- By his daughter Leland Livingston, and his classmate, Dick Slay

Mark McGuire

NO. 17777  •  6 July 1928 – 11 September 1991

Died 11 September 1991 in Oakton, Virginia, aged 63 years
Interment: Cemetery the Holy Rood, Westbury, New York

 

MARK McGUIRE WAS BORN in Far Rockaway, New York on 6 July 1928, the third of four children of lawyer Thomas Joseph McGuire and Agnes Powers McGuire. Mark grew up in Cedarhurst, Long Island in the family home his grandparents built at the turn of the century. He graduated from Lawrence High School.

Mark was influenced in a military career by his father, an officer in the 59th Artillery in the battles of the Marne and St. Mihiel; by an uncle who led an infantry platoon in the "Fighting 69th," was seriously wounded at Chateau Thierry and was awarded the Silver Star; and by his mother, a Yeomanette in the US Navy.

The Howitzer notes: "Mark came to West Point as the pride of Long Island, a natural hive with a goat's ambition. Mark floated through academics but maintained himself a ramrod for duty and a tower of virtue in matters of honor. His Irish smile and unusual sense of humor won him fame, if not renown, throughout the Corps."

After graduation, Mark joined the 71st Field Artillery in Germany. A month later, Mark's wife Ruth arrived and it was during this tour that Michael and Kathleen were born. In 1953, the family left Germany for Fort Sill. Mark attended the Basic Course, taught gunnery and completed the Advanced Course. In 1957, Mark left Fort Sill for an unaccompanied tour in Vietnam, initially as an advisor and later as a General's aide.

In 1958, when Mark returned, his marriage ended with a divorce. Mark reported to the 82d Airborne Division. He considered duty with the 82d the best of his career. He enjoyed jumping out of airplanes and became a master parachutist. Mark experienced an artillery officer's dream of commanding three different airborne batteries: a mortar battery, a 105mm Howitzer battery and an Honest John battery. The highlight of his tour occurred on 14 March 1960 when Mark married Sallie Miller.

ln 1962, Mark and Sallie moved to Maxwell Air Force Base to attend the Air Command and Staff College. Mark continued in an academic environment by becoming fluent in Swahili and attaining a Master of Arts at the American University in Washington, D.C. In January 1966, the Army recognized Mark as a Foreign Area Specialist in South Africa and assigned him to the U.S. Strike Command staff in Florida. Mark was able to utilize his knowledge of Africa and fluency in Swahili during his trips to Africa and in studies and planning.

In February 1968, Mark, Sallie and their family (Lisa, Julie and Christine) moved to London, where Mark served on the US‑UK Planning Group. Mark and Sallie enjoyed their warm relationship with the British people, and the girls were happy to attend English schools. The family had many pleasant experiences traveling in the United Kingdom and on the Continent.

In 1970, Mark retired as a lieutenant colonel to take a job with Cheeseborough‑Ponds. Unfortunately, a corporate shake‑up in New York in 1972 left Mark without a job, and the family moved to Northern Virginia.

In March 1975, Mark began his second career with the Voice of America as a political analyst. In 1999, he received the Director's Award for "holding the mirror of truth before the Chinese people and their leaders during China's quest for democracy."

Part of "In Memoriam," written about Mark by a colleague, stated: "As an editorial writer for the Voice of America, he hammered away at the Communist edifice, testing the power of truth against the Big Lie. Legend has it that Brian Born, the greatest of Ireland's warrior kings, died on the battlefield at Clontarf at the moment of his final victory over the Viking invaders. Like so many Irish heroes and martyrs, his death was the crown and seal of his life. So it is, somehow, fitting that Mark would leave us late in this victory year of 1991. He had lived to see the spectacular triumph of American arms ‑ one of the most remarkable in military history... Mark was no mere spectator to these events. He was, as always, right in the thick of the fight. On his very last day, his words were still being heard by millions throughout the world ‑ bringing a message of courage, hope and freedom. And now that his fight is fought and his race won, Mark has gone to the reward of a lifetime well spent. I believe he would want to remind those of us who remain that there are some things left to do. For freedom will still need defending. So let us strive to be worthy to carry the torch he has passed us and dedicate our lives to duty, honor, country."

Well done, Mark. May God bless you, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand.

Mark is survived by his wife Sallie of Oakton, Virginia; daughters Julie Bethea, Lisa Bennett, Christine and Kathleen; son Michael; two grandchildren, Erin and Richard Bethea; brothers Thomas Joseph McGuire (Brigadier General, USA Retired) and Philip; and sister Patricia.

Robert D. McBride

NO. 17976  |  5 Nov 1927 - 14 Aug 1996

Died in Grosse Pointe Farms
Interred in West Point Post Cemetery, West Point, NY


In the Korean War, Bob parachuted behind the enemy lines and landed in a mine field, surviving through patience and imagination. He would encounter other challenges almost as dramatic in his military and civilian careers. Bob had the integrity, initiative, intellect, and imagination necessary for leadership at the highest level. He validated his capabilities by becoming a recognized captain of the steel industry.

As the eldest of four children of BG and Mrs. Glen McBride, "Army brat" Robert Dana McBride was expected to meet high expectations and responsibilities. In 1945, Bob graduated from the Oklahoma Military Academy, and with his somewhat boisterous, yet warm personality, he sought to prepare for West Point by attending USMA Prep at Amherst College.

As a cadet, Bob participated in the 100th Nite Show, sang in the Cadet Choirs, and was active in boxing, handball, and the Goat Football Team. He had a well-rounded, likable personality and was tagged "Muck" because of his broad shoulders and strength. He and D-l classmates Bell and Jones were on the winning Goat Football Team. During Christmas leave of 1948, Bob met a petite charmer from St. Louis, Glory Haefner. His roommates noticed the change from a droll, tight-lipped, somewhat depressed or grim persona to a sharply brightened, happy persona. Following a whirlwind romance, Bob and Glory were married on 8 Jul 1950, just two weeks after the Korean War began. They honeymooned in Canada before Bob reported to his first duty station.

After airborne and ranger training, LT McBride was assigned to a clandestine unit that conducted operations off the coast of Korea. The unit was so secret that neither Bob nor his classmates assigned had an entry in their 201 files about that assignment. Bob's performance in ground conflict in Korea earned him the nation's third and fourth highest decorations. The Silver Star was awarded for gallantry in action, displayed when McBride led his men in a surprise assault against the Communists and captured 82 of them. While withdrawing, he stemmed an enemy assault and saved one of his men who could not swim to the rescue boats. The Bronze Star Medal was presented when he and his men went through a hail of enemy fire to capture a strategically valuable island off the mainland of Korea. His next assignment was as aide to the J-3 General in Tokyo Far East Headquarters, where Glory and his son joined him. They were present when the Silver Star and Bronze Star medals were pinned on Bob.

When Bob left the Army, he sought a career that would be as challenging and tough as his Infantry experience. He obtained an industrial engineer position with Granite City Steel (GCS), the largest steel company in the St. Louis area and a major provider of flat-rolled steel. With his leadership abilities, he quickly advanced from junior industrial engineer through foreman, superintendent, vice president and general manager, to president of GCS Division in 1976. In 1977, he was named president of Great Lakes Steel Division. Granite City and Great Lakes Divisions ultimately became National Steel through a series of complicated conglomerate mergers. Bob went on to become the only president of National Steel promoted from within. Bob and Glory moved to the Pittsburgh area, where corporate headquarters was located. In 1982, while president of National, he was named president of the 13,000 member Association of Iron and Steel Engineers. There, they renewed a friendship with classmates Don and Sally Dunbar, forming a close, lasting relationship.

One of Bob's greatest challenges was to facilitate a partnership between National and Japans Nippon Kokan KK. Bob knew he had to overcome differences in cultures and operating philosophies. The Japanese officials liked his gruff, straightforward approach, which eliminated misunderstanding. Under McBride, National Steel used Japanese processes, improving the operation and becoming the first major steel corporation to return to profitability after the 1982-83 steel industry disasters. Pinnacle, a popular television show in the 1980s, and the Wall Street Journal ran features on Bob as a captain of the steel industry. Bob was always concerned with the morale of his people. He used the Infantry style of direct, honest exchange of information between leader and follower, even with the union. Many in the industry considered him a maverick, but he was respected for his achievements. To raise the standards of ethics and behavior in the steel industry, Bob used his charisma and initiated a Management Prayer Breakfast policy.

When Bob retired from National, the McBrides left Pittsburgh. They moved to Washington, DC, to be closer to the family, but Bob was called out of retirement to be the CEO and lead the Mclouth Steel Corporation in Michigan. Again, he returned an organization to profitability before he retired in December 1995.

Despite having quit smoking long before, Bob was diagnosed with lung cancer in February 1996. Again, he displayed courage and handled chemotherapy and radiation with humor and elegant acceptance. He was doing well, but then suffered a relapse, dying on 7 Aug 1996 at his home in Grosse Point, MI. Bob showed his family how to die with great faith and dignity. He was a man at peace with God and with himself.

Bob, who loved West Point and worked for it through the years, was a decorated soldier and a successful industrialist. Muck always tried to make a difference. He served on four corporate boards and did pro bono work for the University of Detroit and the Marine Biological Laboratory at Cape Cod.

Bob and Glory were blessed with four children: Scott, Susan; twins Kelly and Kitty; and eight grandchildren. He cherished his family, and they admired and adored him. For Glory, it was a lasting love affair since meeting at Christmas time during Cow year. Glory, the family, and classmates were on hand when Robert Dana McBride was interred at West Point, joining the other heroes buried there, overlooking the Hudson River.

--Classmate and family

Raymond Maladowitz

NO. 17775  •  6 September 1928 – 25 March 1991

Died 25 March 1991 in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, aged 62 years
Interment: Cremated in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

 

WILL ROGERS MUST have used Ray as a model when he made his famous statement, "I never met a man I didn’t like." In all my time as a cadet and in the Army as well, I never met a man who did not like Ray Maladowitz.

Ray was born to Rose and Wasyl Maladowitz on the 6th of September 1928 in Garfield, New Jersey. He joined a close‑knit Ukranian immigrant family of two brothers and five sisters. In Garfield High School, Ray became known throughout the state as a bright, promising scholar‑athlete. The Garfield football team won the Northern Region State Championship and Ray starred as a fullback, passer and kicker; a true triple threat man. He was

heavily recruited by major eastern universities, to include the Ivy League, but West Point won. Ray became one of "Blaik's Boys" and entered West Point with the Class of '50.

Ray was as successful a cadet as he had been at Garfield High School, and he was very proud of being a starting member of the Army football team. Ray also went out for the lacrosse team and went on to become one of the outstanding lacrosse players on the East Coast. Ray was recognized on the All Eastern Team.

All of Ray's time was not, however, spent studying and participating in athletics. He frequently could be found escorting his high school sweetheart, Gladys Bobacker, a pretty, vivacious strawberry blond. They "dragged" for four years; completely discrediting the old cadet theory that said, "If you enter the Academy with one sweetheart, you will graduate with another." Obviously this didn't happen. Ray and Gladys were not in a hurry to get married and were not the first couple to be married after graduation; they were the second.

Ray hit the ground running in combat in Korea, commanding troops of the 24th Infantry Regiment, 1950 – 51. Many of our classmates made the supreme sacrifice during this same period. Ray left Korea well decorated, along with a reputation as a fighting platoon leader who looked out for his men; both exceedingly important for a career soldier.

After completion of the Associate Infantry Company Officers Course at Fort Benning, Ray was assigned to the 47th Infantry Regiment at Fort Dix, New Jersey, as a company XO and commander. Next, Ray was chosen to be the aide‑de‑camp for Major General Zwicker, the Commanding General at Fort Kilmer. From there back to Fort Benning for the Advanced Course followed by Ranger School. Ranger Maladowitz next went to Europe as a company commander in the 86th Infantry Regiment and Plans Officer in the V Corps G‑3 section. After completion of the Russian course at the Army Language School, Ray returned to West Point as a Russian 'P"  - 1960‑63.

Ray also attended Middlebury College, Vermont, and earned his master's degree in foreign languages. After his USMA tour, Ray attended the Command and General Staff College  at Fort Leavenworth and from there back to Korea as a member  of the Korean Military Advisory Group (KMAG), but this time Gladys and the kids went along, a great family experience. From Korea back to the U.S. for a tour on the Army Staff, OACSFOR, at the Pentagon. Ray and Gladys became homeowners, the girls busied themselves with school and community activities, and Mark formed a very energetic, loud, amateur rock band. Not many people knew that Ray was a pretty good violinist in spite of having the biggest hands in the class. He passed on his musical skills to his son Mark.

Ray left the Army staff for battalion command in Vietnam, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division. Ray demonstrated the same leadership characteristics that made him successful in Korea and was an outstanding battalion commander. Ray next was Deputy Brigade Commander. After a year at the Army War College, he returned to West Point, this time as Commander, 3rd Regiment, USCC.

Ray then went to Fort Bragg to the Institute for Military Assistance (IMA) at the JFK Special Warfare Center, where he was responsible for the Army's Foreign Area Officer (FA0) program. Upon promotion to colonel, he commanded the 5th Special Forces Group. Ray was the ideal man for this job. His rugged physical stature, understanding of indigenous forces, knowledge of foreign languages and proven leadership in command positions was exactly what was needed. Next, back to the JFK Center as Deputy Commandant, responsible for the FAO Program and all Special Forces Training as well. Ray retired from the Army from the JFK Center in 1980, after 30 years of service.

Ray was a devoted and faithful husband and father. His children, Mark, Lynne and Leslie, were the apple of his eye. Intellectual activity was balanced with sports and outdoor and cultural activities.

After retirement, Ray and Gladys moved to Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, just outside Charleston. Ray worked for General Business Services for one year and then established his own business consulting firm, working with small businesses in the Charleston area. Ray’s business was successful, and his clients had complete confidence in his recommendations.

Ray died suddenly while playing tennis in a seniors tournament, competititive to the end. Ray is survived by his wife Gladys; children Mark and wife Leslie and son Ray;  Lynne and husband, Lieutenant Colonel Jay Hood, son Jason and daughter Katherine; and Leslie and husband Davis Barnett and daughters Kristen and Brooke.

Ray may be gone but he will not be forgotten. Everyone who knew Ray Maladowitz will remember him for his kindness, willingness to help his friends and love for his family.

Jack and Gladys

Donald Richard Langren

NO. 17621  •  

Died 4 July 1990 in Onawa, Iowa, aged 64 years
Interment: Whiting City Cemetery, Whiting, Iowa


FORTY YEARS AGO DON was described in our Howitzer: "From the Middle West came this Iowa State lad with curly hair and a ready smile that made him everybody's friend. Slipping easily into cadet life, he applied himself to academics with good results. Never too busy to help the goats, he still found time to pursue his interests in numerous activ­ities. Don's perserverance and diligence assure his success in future en­deavors."

Truly a prophetic assessment, missing only a few other important characteristics: a permanent twinkle in his eyes, a deep and ingrained modesty and a sincere concem for others. From early life until his passing, he was a model friend, husband, father, neighbor and citizen.

Upon arrival at Beast Barracks, he shared a secret with several of our class ‑ he had been to "tin school," Kemper Military School. Revelation of this to the Beast Detail or any intimation of prior military training usually resulted in additional harassment. Don kept his secret and, with his usual calm, made it through with relative ease. He enjoyed his four years at the Academy, his education, the expansion and exposure to new friends, new social opportunities and experiences. Throughout our Cadetship he remained devoted  to his bride-to-be Mary "Frant." He was an easy person to like and one who, in a very quiet way, extended his friendship to most everyone he met. These characteristics of his youth were maintained throughout his life. Good humor, thoroughness, competence and sincerity were his attributes, and he had them in unusual abundance.

Following graduation and his marriage in June to Mary Frant, Don was assigned to the 10th Field Artillery Battalion, 3rd Division, which shortly went to Korea. Reports on his performance by fellow soldiers were that he was calm, thorough and very competent. The Army recognized his worth by awarding him the Silver and Bronze Stars.

However, the call of the Midwest proved greater than the peacetime call to arms, and in 1954 Don and Mary Frant settled in Onawa, Iowa, where they raised a wonderful, close‑knit, loving family of two sons, three daughters and six grandchildren. Don was successful in many areas of agri‑business, grain, cattle and banking and was involved in his community and a variety of civic organizations.

What more could be said than "Well Done; Be Thou At Peace."