Frank Riley Loyd, Jr.

NO. 18013  •  20 April 1928 – 26 September 1950

Died 26 September 1950 in Korea, aged 22 years.


FRANK LOYD was born and reared in the Infantry and no queen ever had more gallant service than Frank gave to the blue-scarfed, valiant Queen of Battles. He was born at Fort Sam Houston on 20 April 1928, the son of an Infantry officer. With his younger sister he grew up on Infantry posts and was intrigued by the drill formations and parades. It is easy to imagine him, at retreat, one of many little boys, washed and brushed, watching as the long shadows grew on the parade ground, dreaming of being a soldier.

Eventually, in 1940, his father was stationed in the Philippines. Frank and his mother and sister returned to the USA with the other dependents and settled in San Antonio before the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. Colonel Loyd fought the long battle for the Philippines, but was never captured by the Japanese, He remained free in the jungles of the Philippine Islands for three and a half years of Japanese Occupation, a feat requiring no small amount of resourcefulness and courage. Finally, as the fighting passed, he walked into Manila, boarded a ship, and returned to his family after over four years of separation.

Frank was fired by the example of his father's exploits in the Philippines. He sought diligently to obtain an appointment to USMA and after considerable legwork in the halls of the Senate and House Office Buildings and after many conferences with congressmen, he entered in July 1946. Although appreciative of the need for a college education, he came to West Point determined to be a soldier’s soldier; He came to learn the service of the blue-scarfed Queen. For four years the biweekly tactics classes and the summer tactical training held far more interest for Frank than the academic courses. During his last three years at West Point he gained two roommates who were very strongly oriented toward the Armored Force. There were many lively discussions about the relative merits of the two branches of service. Despite the odds against him, he never wavered in his devo­tion.

Infantry was the passion and purpose of his life, but Frank had other pursuits.  He learned to fly while in high school and had a private pilot’s license. Planes always fascinated him, but he gave up a desire to join the Air Force in favor of the Infantry. He Iearned very early to enjoy an outdoor life. He became an accomplished fisherman and hunter. During his cadet days be fished at every opportunity and when he was not fishing, he could be found in his room tending his line and equipment. Since cadets have little opportunity for hunting he became interested in rifle competition. In his last year at West Point, he received from his father a target rifle which became his prized possession.

Frank always displayed a warmth and a liking for people that never failed to win friends. As a boy in San Antonio he developed lasting friendships with other sons of Army Officers. Several of them became classmates at West Point. As a Plebe he built still more friendships. Even the upper classmen seldom failed to react to his likable, easy-going manner. As an upperclassman he carried out his responsibilitics in his easy good-natured way. He was a good friend and a good companion, enthusiastic and interested in others.

Frank's boyhood and maturing years prepared him for Infantry leadership and on 6 June 1950 he was graduated a 2d lieutenant of Infantry. Later that month the Korean War broke out and Frank had his graduation leave shortened and received orders to Korea as a replacement. He joined Company B, 35th Infantry, as a platoon leader. On 26 September 1950, a 2d lieutenant for less than four months, he was with his company on Task Force Dolvin when he formed and led an attack that was both daring and imaginative. His company, which had been riding on tanks, had become pinned down with heavy sniper and automatic weapons fire from a hill to the right. Frank was riding near the rear of the column and realized that for his company to proceed with its mission, the enemy must be driven from the commanding ground. He formed an attacking force of 15 men and led it in an assault on the hill. His attacking force itself became pinned down from extremely heavy enemy fire and hand grenades. Exemplifying the Men of Harlock- ". . . He is bravest, he who leads us.. . . " Frank, armed with a pistol and his display of bravery and courage, led his men in a final assault that overran the enemy position causing 150 enemy to abandon their well - ­fortified positions. In the final action of overrunning the positions Frank sacrificed his life. For gallantry, undaunted courage and inspiring leadership, Frank was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross.

Frank Loyd's family, his friends, the Long Gray Line, and the Queen of Battles have suffered a severe loss. His sacrifice, however, adds to the tradition of heroism and courage that made and has kept our country free.

-Philip B. Samsey '50

Warren Carr Littlefield

NO. 17502  •  15 February 1928 – 15 September 1950

Died September 15, 1950, of Wounds Received in Action, in Korea. Aged 22 Years.

 

I am happy to write this informal memorial to Lieutenant Warren C. Littlefield, U.S.A., who died September 15, 1950, of wounds received in action in Korea, at the age of 22 years, approximately three months after his graduation from West Point, and less than one month after entering combat duty in the Korean war.

I have known Warren Littlefield since the time of his birth in Des Moines, Iowa on February 15, 1928. I have been intimately acquainted with his father and mother and have observed Warren during the progress of his life. There have been no finer people than his parents. They possessed the sterling qualities of character, industry, and vision that have made this country a great nation. They were most loyal American Citizens and typified the best qualities of Americans. Warren's father, Ora W. LIttlefield, served as a ser­geant in World War I and was engaged in active duty at the front during that service. When World War II came upon us, he again volunteered his services and died in the Service on March 6, 1944, while stationed at Santa Ana Army Air Base, serving as a Major at Headquarters Squadron Preflight School as Commanding Officer, 2nd Wing. He was survived by his son and only child, Warren, and his wife, Victoria Carr­ Littlefield. Warren and his mother remained in California although still retaining their Iowa residence.

Warren, from his earliest youth until his final acts of service for his country, was outstanding in all that he did. His schooling commenced in Hubbell School in Des Moines. In 1934 his parents moved to Carroll, Iowa, and he attended the public schools there until his family moved to Lake City in 1937. In June 1942 he completed his junior high school work at Lake City, receiving the highest of grades and many honors. He was a member of the debating club and represented his school in competition with other schools. He excelled scholastically. He was also interested in music and played the cornet in the school band, which won several state contests.

In June 1942 the Littlefield family moved to California, at the time Ora Littlefield again entered the Service as an officer in World War II. During Major Littlefield's military service, Warren attended the public schools in Santa Ana, California. He participated in many activities. He belonged to the Spanish club, sang in the glee club and the Presbyterian Church choir. He played the cornet in a small dance band. His father and mother were very proud of his work as a trumpeter, as his father had played the bugle in his World War I service.

His Parents took great pride in his achievements and he was very devoted to his parents. Upon graduation from high school he entered the University of California at Los Angeles, where he studied for a period of two years, when he received an appointment to West Point from United States Senator from Iowa, Honorable Bourke B. Hickenlooper. In the University he was an active member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and greatly enjoyed association with his fellow students. He was employed part-time in the Wilshire Art Gallery so as to aid in defraying expenses. During this period he gave much of his attention to his mother and there was a fine companionship between them which helped both in recovering from the loss of Major Littlefield.

He entered West Point in July 1946, where he continued until graduation in June 1950. He found his work at West Point difficult but interesting, and at the end of the first year he was in good scholastic standing. Each year his standing improved and he ranked high in his graduating class. When it came to choose the type of service in which he would serve in the Army, he found many branches were of interest to him, but he wrote to me that he had chosen service in the Armored Cavalry because he thought that was the place in which he could do the most good. This good became his supreme sacrifice, as it was in this service in Korea that he lost his life.

Lieutenant Littlefield visited me in my home in Iowa City in June following his graduation.  He told me of his contemplated marriage to Betty Zoe Rhame of Sumter, South Carolina, and that the plans for a formal wedding were set for August 5th. Many events had been planned and he hoped to arrive there early to join the festivities. He became acquainted with Miss Rhame in June 1948, while the Cadets were on their Air Force tour. However, he received his orders for active duty in the Pacific and the wedding was advanced, and the marriage took place on July 13, 1950 in New Albany, Indiana. Lieutenant Littlefield and his wife then went to Santa Ana, California, so that he could be with both his wife and his mother before departing west. A close association and the warmest of friendship developed between Betty and Warren's mother, and Betty stayed in California so that they were together after Warren left.

It was with great sadness that the news of Warren's death was received and yet it was faced with the same courage that Warren Littlefield demonstrated in his action in Korea. It created a severe test of mental and moral stamina.  Warren's mother faced the loss of her husband in World War II and her only son shortly after in the Korean battlefields. The  life which  looked so bright to Warren Littlefield and his bride came to a sudden ending.

It was the sacrifice of war which is suffered most by those who remain. In this memorial, in which we honor Lieutenant Warren C. Littlefield for his courage and devoted service to his country, we honor his good mother and his fine wife who survive him. It is the cost of war, yet necessary if freedom is to be preserved and our country is to survive. It is the sacrifice of Lieutenant Warren C. Littlefield and the  suffering of his mother, Victoria Carr Littlefield, and of his wife, Betty Rhame Littlefield, and of the other noble citizens of the United States, who have also carried the  burden of wars, that have enabled this country and the people within it to be free. They  have paid the price for us to live as we  live, and for us to have the many blessings of democracy.

I am sure that Warren C. Littlefield lived up to the full traditions and training he received at West Point and that his service brings honor to that institution. I am happy to place this statement in memory of Lieutenant Warren C. Littlefield, to remain with the records of the many graduates of that worthy institution which have meant so much in the protection of the life of America.

--Mason Ladd
Dean, College of Law
State University of Iowa

Edmund Jones Lilly III

NO. 17873  •  26 May 1928 – 3 September 1950

Killed in action September 3, 1950, in Korea. Aged 22 years.


Edmund Jones Lilly, III, was born in Colon, Republic of Panama, on May 26th 1928, while his father was serving at Fort Davis, Canal Zone, with the 14th Infantry.  He moved about the world in typical "army brat" fashion, getting his formal education here and there, making new friends and parting with old ones. After stations in Michigan and Georgia, he went to Manila with his parents and two sisters in January of 1941. At Fort  McKinley, where his father served with the 57th Infantry (PS), he lived in Quar­ters 44, and attended the American grade school. Here he was graduated in a class of three, with Major General Jonathan Mayhew Wainwright (USMA 06) as the speaker. His two classmates were Gail Francis Wilson and Frank Riley Loyd. Gail and Frank were also his classmates at West Point. In May, 1941, because of mounting tension in the Far East, he was evacuated with his Mother and sisters back to the United States. During his father's stay in the Orient, Ted lived in Fayetteville, North Carolina, his father's birthplace. Here he finished High School in 1945.

Ted enjoyed the out‑of‑doors  ‑  hunting, fishing, swimming, or even picnicking. He took part in sports in both high school and The Citadel, Charleston, South Carolina, which he entered in the Fall of 1945. He was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Fayetteville and took part in activities of the Young People's League. At this time he considered the Episcopal ministry as a career and had many long talks with his rector on the subject. At The Citadel he decided to try for the U.S. Military Academy and the Army. He entered West Point in the Summer of 1946 with the Class of 1950.

Though dedicated to the military, he deplored warfare as the final means of settling international disputes, as fragmentary writings found among his school papers will attest. The following lines are an example:

"Oftentimes I feel a great despair

That fills my soul  with unrelenting fear,

and fires of bell burn deep within my heart.

My mind is doubtful and my view unclear.

Yet through this fog that covers my real self,

That blackens all my hopes and all my prayers,

I have unfaltering trust in Things Divine,

And with this trust I cover up my cares."

His dreams of a better tomorrow are revealed in the following fragment:

"But now in reminiscing through days of long ago,

I realize how methods change of fighting off one's foe.

A gun that shoots a hundred rounds a thousand yards or more

Has ta'en the place of sword‑play in this world of constant war.                   

But soon we know that this gun too will will be entombed in dust,                

And then we'll see a newer world that’s  once more free and just."

At West Point he was a member of Company I-­2. His room was often a gathering place and many happy evenings were spent listening to records or discussing the last week‑end in New York.

On June 7, 1950, the day following graduation, Ted took as his bride, Mary Alma Russ, a lovely El Paso girl he had met on a blind date while on a cadet visit to Fort Bliss. While at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, on honeymoon leave, he became concerned about radio and newspaper reports of world conditions and notified his unit, the Second Division, of his exact location. Several days later his leave was cancelled and he reported to Fort Lewis, Washington. By July’s end he was in Korea with Company B, 9th Infantry. In early September his platoon was on an isolated peak overlooking the Naktong River in the Yongson Sector. The rest of the regiment had been driven from its position. Why Ted's platoon did not withdraw, we do not know. Death occurred September 3, 1950, according to the D.A. wire. The posthumous Silver Star citations read in part: "During the intense automatic weapons fire and grenade explosions, Lieutenant Lilly walked among his men, encouraging them to greater efforts in their valiant defense against insurmountable odds." In other words,  he was in the place he should have been, performing his duty – as he had been taught to do. He was the first member of the Class of 1950  to be killed in action.

He is survived by his widow ‑ now happily remarried since 1952 ‑ by his parents, Colonel and Mrs. Edmund J. Lilly, Jr., and his sisters, Mrs. Jack. D. Dade, Jr., whose husband is a Colonel in the  Air Force, and Mrs. Ralph A. Koch, Jr., whose husband is a First Lieutenant, Signal Corps, US Army, and USMA '53.



Russell Eugene Leggett

NO. 17436  •  

Died December 12, 1951, In an Aircraft Accident at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, aged 27 Years


To those of us who live life with a code, there is a quiet cognizance of the brevity of time on earth during which we consciously or unconsciously build to be remembered. For some it takes all of a normal span of life with a continuous effort. Those who knew Russ Leggett will say that his pristine goodness came to him naturally, and though his untimely departure was announced at a youthful age, a wonderful remembrance of a great fellow will always remain.

Russ was endowed with two great traits of character that make him unforgettable. For determination and devotion he had no equal. While serving in World War II as a pilot he received his appointment to the Academy and leaped at the opportunity to satisfy this long cherished ambition. Despite the privileges he had already had as an officer, Russ readily adapted himself to his new surroundings as a cadet. His diligence was rewarded by his graduation among the top men in his class, and there were many of his classmates who felt grateful to him on graduation day, June 6th, 1950, for his academic assistance and friendship,

Although he successfully completed the course during World War II, he was ordered to go through flying school for the second time because of the lapse in years away from flying. The Air Force found a true blue pilot in Russ Leggett. There were few like him in his persistence to achieve success in his chosen field. He was good enough to be eligible for the best of assignments, but no matter how inviting they were, he remained unchanged to the end. All his fellow officers admired him and respected him.  His work was thorough and efficient. His loyalty was undying and alive with enthusiasm. 

When Russ arrived at Langley Field, Virginia, he was assigned to a photo reconnaissance squadron. Shortly thereafter he volunteered to fill a vacancy in a light bombardment outfit. Now, at last, he was in his glory. It was not long before he was among the most responsible and proficient pilots in the squadron. It seemed as if "Lady Luck" was with him because this squadron became part of the first jet bomber group in the Air Force. Finally, and deservingly after many obstacles through the years, Russ had worked his way into a position that meant a promising future. He knew what he wanted and there was nothing that could prevent him from going on ‑ that is nothing but the nasty hand of fate.

You can read about things like this, you can hear stories and maybe even see one from a distance, but nothing strikes the heart closer than when you actually play a part in such a tragic episode. December 12, 1951 began like any other day. That is until the roll was called. And then the Operations Officer reported that one of our planes on an early morning flight had crashed. An engine failure, the field was in sight, emergency procedures seemed to be working all right, then suddenly silence. A fisherman reports seeing a giant aircraft plunge into Chesapeake Bay. You rush confused up to the tower. Men are screaming orders to rescue boats. You can see helicopters on their way to the scene, our Squadron Commander stands quietly nervous, a thoroughly chewed cigar providing the only indication of his tension and concern. A thousand thoughts race through your mind each second, then, as the excitement subsides to whispers, as assumptions become conclusions and facts, you are struck with the cold hard reality that a fellow man closer than a friend is no longer with you.

The synopsis of this man's life would not be complete without knowing a little of his deep love and affection for Charlotte. As his boyhood sweetheart, as his "One and Only" at West Point, and as his wife, Charlotte was all that Russ could hope for. Understanding and compassionate, she endeared further our sentiments for him. If you knew them, there was only one impression you could have ‑‑ they were two young people who shared a manner of living that won the envy of all. Eight weeks after the birth of their son, Lawrence, Charlotte received the tragic news. Her courageous conduct throughout the ensuing gloom was testimony to her character. Despite her burdened heart of misery she was actually a comfort to those who paid their respects. Only the people who knew her well could realize the magnitude to her of this misfortune.

Russ was laid to rest in a small cemetery very close to the airport in Allentown, Pennsylvania. It seemed the natural thing to do for a man who had dedicated his life to the progress of aviation. A devoted husband, a grand friend, a loyal soldier. God has not created enough like him. Lawrence will never know his father, but he has a magnificent heritage to guide his way through life.

- Elliot E. Heit

Elliott Reynolds Knott

NO. 17851  •  

Killed December 12, 1951, in a plane crash near Honshu, Japan. Aged 23 Years.


DEATH is never a pleasant subject to dwell on and I for one am sure it never entered Elliot’s mind that clear December morning when he took off from Johnson Air Force Base on a routine air to ground gunnery mission. Less than five weeks ago, he had bid farewell to his loving wife, Louise, and had come to Japan ‑ as a jet pilot with the rest of his class from Williams Air Force Base. Now he was finishing up his training in preparation for Korea and actual combat missions. As Elliott was coming up from his second pass at a ground target, his plane seemed to disintegrate. The tail section flew off of his F‑80 and he went spinning into the calm waters of the Pacific Ocean some 200 yards off shore. Thus uncompromising death ended the life of one human and put a void in the lives of many others. His mother, his wife, Louise, and his sister, Barbara ‑ all suffered a great tragedy; and his friends, who knew and loved El will never forget him.

Elliott was a man worth knowing. In all the years of our friendship, I never once saw him discouraged or unsmiling. Whether the problem was getting a weekend pass or passing a flying proficiency check, he always looked on the optimistic side. All of his friends knew of his eversmiling outlook, and he always encouraged those with whom he mixed.

Perhaps lesser known were the reasons for his sincerity and friendship. From the time El learned to talk, he loved to mix with people. An active member of the Boy Scouts, he learned from others, advanced to become an Eagle Scout, and then taught others younger than himself. At an early age he developed first an admiration for West Point and then, an intense desire to go there. That ambition was realized when he entered the Military Academy in 1946. His aim then changed to becoming a Jet pilot and this he also accomplished. With life running in such a smooth pattern for El, it isn't hard to realize why he was so continually happy. Happiness isn't so much getting what you want, however, as it is in wanting what you get. There were many disappointments in his life. His main disappointment was the separation from his wife when he was assigned overseas. He and Louise had built up a wonderful future in their dreams and none of it envisaged their separation. Still, when duty called, El temporarily postponed the fulfilling ‑ to be buried deep inside his heart. No one, especially El himself, knew his postponement  would become a cancellation.

The mortal remains of Elliott Reynolds Knott were recovered and returned to West Point, where he lies today in the Post Cemetery. Having been cheated out of his first love, that of his wife, he will be a permanent part of his second love ‑ West Point.

"Here he lies where he longs to be,

Home is the sailor, home from the sea;

And the hunter, home from the hills."

-F. E. T.

William Harold Kellum

NO. 17975  •  20 October 1926 – 15 June 1951

Died 15 June 1951 (Presumed date) at Pyoktong, North Korea. Aged 23 Years.

 

COURAGE AND DETERMINATION. These were the words by which 1st Lieutenant William H. Kellum lived, fought, and died. Bill Kellum’s dedication to these words constitutes a capsule explanation of his outstanding athletic achievements,  his extraordinary gallantry on the field of battle, and his uncompromising attitude toward his Chinese captors which was directly responsible for his untimely, tragic, but highly courageous and exemplary death.

It is clear that Colonel Earl 'Red' Blaik, under whose tutelage Bill achieved AII‑East honors at the position of end in addition to three foot­ball letters, two of them with Navy stars, was impressed by these characteristics of courage and determination, as he recently recalled that:

"Bill Kellum ... in his quiet, rather self‑effacing, but uncompromising way ... had a depth of determination which would not allow him to play a secondary position even though to do otherwise he was forced to overcome a limited ... (physique by college standards).  Bill's competitive urge had a ferocity of purpose which earned him the lasting respect of the troops both on the field and on the field of battle."

Again, courage and determination are amply evident in Lieutenant Kellum's combat record as illustrated by the following excerpts from his Silver Star citation:

"...He was assigned the mission of maintaining a combat outpost approximately 3,000 yards in front of the main line of resistance.... At the break of day, he could observe the enemy almost completely around his position. Realizing the threat to his security, he immediately began placing his men to meet the new threat... He ran from position to position, continually exposing himself to enemy fire, in order to encourage his men and direct the fire fight.  When last seen, he was running toward the right flank of his platoon to direct that group of men who were then heavily engaged with the enemy .... "

But there was more to Bill Kellum than athletic and military achievements. More even than courage and determination. He was a man of many capabilities and interests, a man who is remembered for his ready grin as well as his courage, a man considerate of and deeply attached to his family, and a man of strong beliefs in God and dedication to country and career. An account which does justice to Bill's achievements and character cannot be told hit and miss: it must have a chronological foundation.

So let us backtrack to Eastland, Texas, on 20 October 1926, Bill's date of birth. He was a strong, healthy baby which gave him a good start towards being the outdoor, athletic type he turned out to be. Bill received his elementary education in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and El Dorado, Arkansas. His high school education was at Haynesville, Louisiana, where in recognition of good grades and citizenship he was elected a member of the National Honor Society.

In forecast of football exploits at West Point, Bill was a much respected terror on high school football fields. He made All‑State two years and All‑Southern one year playing the position of end. Let us look briefly at excerpts from newspaper accounts of games in which he played, for courage and determination were as evident then as they were to be years later playing for higher stakes in Korea:

"...Kellum is a scrapper from whistle to gun...his fine competitive spirit is an inspiration to his teammates... in spite of the fact that opposing coaches have had their linemen double up on the lanky wingman. He has been a standout in every game with his jarring tackles, precision blocking, and fancy pass catching ......"

Of course, football was not Bill's onIy avocation. He was greatly interested in scouting, an interest which may have been given impetus by the action of a Boy Scout who saved him from death from gasoline fumes at the age of four by administering artificial respiration. Bill was also an active member of the First Baptist Church. Another sporting interest, swimming, he turned to profitable use as he served as manager and life guard of the Haynesville City Pool during high school days.

Bill was close to his family in growing up. He and his brother, Herman, now a doctor, were inseparable. In the one letter he was able to write home from prison camp, Bill's primary concern was not for his own situation, but rather for news of Herman's first child. In Bill's words,

"...Have been thinking about (the family) a lot and have wondered greatly about the new addition to the family .... Let the kid know about his Uncle Bill."

Bill's favorite fishing partner was his father who continually encouraged him in his athletic and career ambitions. Bill was close to and always considerate of his mother, never failing in the years he was away from home to call her on special occasions. His only and younger sister, Beth, was the recipient of much advice as well as special concern and protection. An age difference of 12 years was no barrier between Bill and his younger brother, Joe, whose active approach to life was so similar to Bill's.

Thus did William H. Kellum's full boyhood prepare him for the responsibilities of manhood.

Upon finishing high school, Bill served five months in the US Navy in the closing months of World War II. While in the Navy, he won a "golden gloves" championship, evidence of his interest and competence in the "manly art of self‑defense," an interest which was to bring further laurels at West Point.

As a recipient of an appointment to the US Military Academy, Bill left the Navy to attend Louisiana State University where he found time amidst his West Point preparatory studies to be first‑string end on the football team and to win a second place medal in the ROTC boxing matches.

Matriculating to West Point in July 1946, Bill, by graduation day, 6 June 1950, was able to leave an enviable record behind him. Bill's football exploits have already been related. In boxing, he won many more bouts than he lost. Skinny for a heavyweight, Bill is still remembered at West Point and by classmates around the world for "cutting down to his size" ring opponents who outweighed him frequently by as much as 50 pounds. Herb Kroten, one of his boxing coaches, accounts for Bill's success (he went to the finals of the Eastern intercollegiate Championships one year and was elected co‑captain of the boxing team his First Class year) by recalling his willingness "to take on anything."

Athletics were not Bill's only interests at West Point. He was a member of the Fishing Club and Radio Club and ranked relatively high militarily. However. Bill is remembered by his classmates as much for his personality as for his more objective achievements. The Howitzer was indeed right in asserting that "Bill’s warm Southern personality and ready humor will be long remembered by the Class of '50."

Only a few short months after graduation, Bill, in company with so many of his classmates, was called upon to utilize his West Point training on the field of battle sooner than he or anyone else expected. His country and his Alma Mater did not find him wanting! As a platoon leader of Company G, 21st Inf., he distinguished himself on the field of battle being awarded the Bronze Star Medal for valor, the Silver Star, and the Purple Heart. He had every reason to write home proudly when he was promoted to 1st Lieutenant only five months after graduation. Excerpts have already been quoted from his Silver Star citation. Equally stirring and indicative of his courageous spirit and military leadership are the following excerpts from his Bronze Star citation:

"During his regiment's advance his platoon was the leading element .... With complete disregard for his safety Lieutenant Kellum exposed himself to a hail of withering fire in order to place his men in positions affording the maximum fire power and control. Moving far forward, he directed the effective fire of friendly artillery and mortars .... He then led an assault ‑ routing the enemy ... and permitting the continued advance of the regiment ......"

Captured during an action in which he was heroically leading his platoon in defending a combat outpost 3,000 yards in front of the main line of resistance, Lieutenant Kellum was taken to a prison camp in Pyoktong in North Korea. Here he faced his final and perhaps his most formidable test of courage. A classmate whom Bill assisted while he himself was weak and sick reports that:

"...under these difficult conditions Bill was a model soldier. He resisted his captors' every effort to organize a mass indoctrination program in the officers' compound, and did more than his share of the work in helping his fellow prisoners to survive...."

In spite of a complete lack of care and only crackers and rice for food, Bill, by sheer determination, recovered from flu, only to incur the wrath of the Chinese for organizing the ambulatory soldiers at what  was, in name only, the prison camp's hospital. Thrown into detention in a part of the "hospital" from which no prisoners ever emerged alive, Bill died a hero’s death staunchly defending his convictions and the traditions of his Alma Mater and country. Fellow prisoners report that Bill's death occurred approximately 15 June 1951, a date which is more accurate than the year end date, 31 December 1951, assumed in AG official records.

In their tremendous and irreplaceable loss, Bill's surviving parents and brothers and sister have been strengthened by a justifiable pride shared by friends, classmates, and fellow officers in a man who died as he lived: courageous and determined to be true to his own high ideals whatever the danger, whatever the personal sacrifice.

--R.P.L. '50--

Anderson Owen Hubbard

NO. 17836  •  28 September, 1924 – 23 October 1952

Died October 23, 1952 in an aircraft accident near Pargnan, France. Aged 28 Years.

 

It was three years ago today, Son, that you ushered me into the Cadet Chapel at West Point to hear your class sermon. How happy and thrilled we were. That was a beautiful June day -  ­the flrst Sunday in June 1950 ‑ not a cloud in the sky.

Today is another beautiful June day, and I go back in memory, to three years ago today, and of the past twenty‑eight years. God let you come into our lives twenty eight years ago, September 28th, 1924. It is sweet to remember you when you were a baby. Such a beautiful, attractive and lovable baby. You always drew attention with your winsome ways ‑ friendly, cheerful and always smiling. As you grew into boyhood and manhood you grew in favor with both your family and friends. You acquired and developed those qualities which constitute a fine Christian gentleman ‑ friendliness, thoughtfulness, consideration, unselfishness, patience, sympathy, courtesy and respect. You were a lovable and devoted son and brother, and a true friend. If it was family or friend that needed your help you always gave your best. When your advice or opinion was sought your counsel was a result of consideration and deep thinking.

How proud we were when, at the age of fourteen, you won the contest of the Pittsylvania County F. F. A. Judging Contest. A Sophomore, you made the highest individual score, competing with fifty‑three boys from the Agricultare Departments of Pittsylvania County. You scored 804 points out of 900. You graduated from Renan High at the tender age of sixteen and entered college at V. P. I. in Blacksburg, Virginia, at sixteen years of age. So young to leave home and enter college. You made good during the two years you were there. On March 23, 1944 you were drafted into the Army. The grief that came with your departure! You were nineteen, only a boy, so young to be in the Army. You were sent to Camp McCoy, Wisconsin for training, so far away!

It was while at Camp McCoy that you wrote us one of the lieutenants there told you that you belonged at West Point and to get your parents to get you an appointment to the Military Academy. You asked what we thought, and said if you could get an appointment you would do your best to make good of the opportunity. We did think well of it and took the proper steps to get you appointed to West Point by our Congressman, the Honorable Thomas G. Burch. This was in August 1944. In September 1944 you came home on a furlough. On November 22, 1944 you sailed on a crowded ship to France. There you were in General Patton's Army and learned what real war is, what life for a fighting man on the front line is, and what is meant by "Living Hell". Eating frozen "K" rations, sleeping in snow and mud, buddies falling by your side, and weeks without getting letters from home  ‑ Oh! that horror!

It was on January 10, 1945 that we received a letter from Congressman Burch saying: I  take great pleasure in advising that I have nominated your son Anderson Owen Hubbard as principal candidate for the United States Military Academy. The War Department informs me instructions were issued directing that Pfc. Hubbard be given a physical examination. It he is found to be physically qualified for admission to West Point, his return to the United States to undergo special preparatory training will be authorized and a letter of appointment will be issued to him."

At that time you were overseas ‑ hurried to and fro with hundreds of other privates by General George Patton. You were up in the front line in combat when you received orders to report to headquarters one day in March 1945. You were given the physical examination and returned by plane to the United States. You were sent to Cornell University during the last of March, where you had strenuous training, both mental and physical, for three months. On July 3, 1945 we received another letter from Congressman Burch saying: "I am pleased to advise that the War Department has notified me that your son Anderson Owen Hubbard, my principal candidate for appointment to the United States Military Academy, qualified in the examinations and is being admitted to the Academy today, July 2, 1945."

The same day we received a letter from Brigadier General George Honnen, Commandant of Cadets at West Point, dated July 2, 1945, saying: "Your son has reported for duty as a cadet at the United States Military Academy, West Point, N. Y. You and he are to be congratulated on his having met the basic qualifications for entrance. As you no doubt know, this Institution was established by the United States government to train young men for a career as officers in the Military Services."

It was on July 2, 1945 that you became a cadet of West Point. How happy and how proud we were of you!

In October 1945 you received an injury while playing football and spent months in the hospital. On March 1, 1946 you were sent to Florida for two months, on a sick leave. In May, on Mother's Day, you came home to stay until August 25. How we enjoyed having you home where we could help you regain your health and strength and how I  enjoyed preparing your favorite foods for you! Then, when you returned to West Point in August, you passed the physical examination.

At the United States Military Academy you were known as "Andy".

How happy we were to meet you in Philadelphia at the Army and Navy football games ‑ Army always winning!  What joyous times for three years! Then in October 1949 we visited you at West Point. You were a member of the Regimental Staff. You were the first man on the Plain when there was a parade. You were an usher in the Cadet Chapel. How I longed for, and dreamed of the day when you would usher me into a seat in that Chapel to hear your baccalaureate sermon! That dream came true at 11 A.M. on June 4, 1950 ‑ the first Sunday in June three years ago today. How proud, thrilled and thankful I was! I felt God had answered my prayers, and I gave thanks to Him in that Chapel. On Tuesday morning, June 6, 1950, we saw you receive your diploma. Again I said a prayer of thanks to God and asked Him to protect and guide you in the future. The thrill of those days at the Academy in June Week 1950!

After a tour of Europe in June and a visit home you went to Goodfellow Air Force Base, San Angelo, Texas, for Flight Training. You were given a choice of branch of the Service and had chosen the Air Force before leaving West Point. You loved flying. At Reese Air Force Base, Lubbock, Texas, on August 4, 1951 you got your wings. Then you were sent to Langley Field, Virginia, and in November 1951 you were sent to France. In March 1952 you volunteered for a mission to Korea. While there you flew 22 missions. In July 1952  you returned to France via the United States and had a leave to stop a few days with your family and friends. You visited with many. O, my son! ‑ too soon you had to return to France.

At nightfall on October 24, 1952 I was handed a telegram from Washington, D. C. which read: "It is with deep regret that I inform you of the death of your son, 1st Lieutenant Anderson O. Hubbard. He died In France on October 23, 1952 as the result of injuries received in an aircraft accident. A letter containing details will be forwarded to you at the earliest possible date. You will be furnished information concerning the return of his remains to this country. Please accept my sincere sympathy in this hour of grief.”  Signed,  Major John H. McCormick, Director of Military Personnel.

We were shocked and stunned by that message. Why, O why did it have to be! The sorrow and grief have been so hard to bear.

Then came a letter from your Commanding Officer, Col. William L. Kennedy, at the United States Air Force Base in France, which read: "As a member of this wing your son was well liked by all his associates. He was an excellent officer and a very capable pilot, always performing the tasks assigned to him in a cheerful and efficient manner, thereby winning the commendation of his immediate superiors and the respect and affection of his comrades. His death comes as a real shock to all who knew him and his loss will be keenly felt by this organization."

A letter written October 28, 1952 by Donald J. Smith, Major, United States Air Force, Commanding, "In all respects your son lived up to the standards and traditions of the Air Force. His likeable personality was compounded with intelligence, common sense, and outstanding ability as an aviator. The casualty which cost us the life of such a fine gentleman occurred in an instant. Andy had been flying with a formation of five other aircraft. They had completed the first phase of their mission and engaged in single file flying maneuvers with Andy in the lead. His plane was observed completing a turn and descending rapidly into the ground. No fire resulted. All available rescue equipment was immediately dispatched. However, upon arrival it was realized that they were never really needed. The pain of loss can be alleviated somewhat by the knowledge that death came fast and clean and that before death, life had been in keeping with the highest ideals of the Armed Forces and the Nation we serve.

Memorial services were held here on the base by Chaplain Frank M. Arnold. You would have been pleased by the wonderful tribute he paid your son. The entire squadron was present, in addition to many of his friends of the other organizations throughout the wing. A flyover of his fellow pilots concluded the services as both the American and French flags were lowered at retreat."

Then came a letter from the Chaplain, Lt. Col. Frank M. Arnold. He told of the French workers on the base who contributed flowers - ­2 large, lovely wreaths which were used in the service ‑ and sent money contributed by them for flowers for your grave. How touched we were by such an expression of admiration.

Then Capt. Robert C. Young, your flight commander, who had charge of the flight on the day of the accident, and who therefore was a witness, wrote: "There is so much that could be said, but still can be said in the few words ‑ 'He was loved and respected by all those who knew him'."

Lt. Louis Branch, from Texas, wrote: "I got to know Andy quite well while he was in training at Reese Air Force Base, Lubbock, and found him to be one of the finest fellows I've ever known."

A letter from Lt. Charles W. Hammond in Guam‑"I was Andy's roommate at West Point for two years. During that time we became very fast friends and close. During the six years I knew Andy we never had a quarrel or serious argument. You have lost your son and I have lost my friend. None of us will soon forget him."

Another letter, signed by Hoyt S. Vandenberg, Chief of Staff, United States Air Force, said: "Lieutenant Hubbard's military record was excellent. He was held in esteem by all who knew him for his loyalty and attention to duty. His fine qualities were disclosed by his conscientiousness, willingness to assume responsibility, and his consideration for others. His many friends are saddened by his death."

There were many, many more letters, coming from many countries and nearly every state in the United States. They were a help, and we do appreciate them. We are very grateful for their expressions of sympathy and condolence.

The remains arrived on November 21, 1952. Funeral services were held in your church at Riceville, Virginia, on November 22, 1952, and burial followed in the family lot in the cemetery at Gretna, Virginia, with full military honors.

Then came your medals of achievement, merit and honor. There are fourteen in all ‑ decorations and awards earned by you ‑ the Korean Service Medal, the Air Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, and others.

You carried the "torch" and held it high. It was always my prayer that wherever you went, whatever you did, your influence would be good and that others might see "Jesus in you." Ah memory!, how sweet" and yet how cruel!

Your Mother, Christine McCormick Hubbard

George Ervine Hannan

NO. 17685  •  23 August 1927 – 2 October 1950

Killed in Action October 2, 1950, near Wonju, Korea, aged 23 years.


George Ervine Hannon was born at Mobridge, South Dakota on 23 August 1927, the son of Colonel and Mrs. William Seaton Hannan. His early education was secured in a number of South Dakota schools, and In 1945 he graduated with honors from the high school of Pierre, South Dakota.

Soon after his high school graduation, he met his future wife, Miss Georgia Banks, at a Prisoner of War Camp in Wyoming, where his father was Commanding Officer and Georgia's father was Post Engineer.

On his eighteenth birthday, George reported for Induction in the Army and spent some weeks at Fort Snelling, Minnesota. Soon after his Induction he received an appointment to the Military Academy from Senator Harlan Bushfield of South Dakota and was sent to Amherst College as a Student In the USMA Preparatory School there. After a year of training be received a discharge from the Army to enter West Point In July 1946.

His first year was not the easiest plebe year ever spent at the Academy, and he seemed to appreciate his upper class years more than did most cadets. Always a studious person, George managed to survive, and his graduation in the middle of his class was a major victory. During his four years as a cadet, he participated In many extra- curricular activities, Including work with the Howitzer, the Camera Club, the Concert Orchestra, and the Record Lending Library. He was a co-founder of the Record Library, and In his First Class year served as president of the organization. Athletically inclined, his forte was handball, at which sport he easily held his own against all comers.

On 6 June 1950 two of his three goals were reached. He was commissioned in the United States Army and assigned to the Signal Corps, and Graduation Day was made complete by the traditional West Point wedding to his longtime sweetheart, Georgia. Unfortunately, both graduation leave and honeymoon were abruptly cut short in July by movement orders for preparation for overseas shipment. Just three months later he was to give his life In attaining his third goal - that of bringing only honor to his loved ones and to West Point.

He reported to the 205th Signal Repair Company, Fort Lewis, Washington, on 26 July 1960, and on 4 August sailed for the Orient. After a short stay in Japan, George landed at Pusan, Korea, on 16 September.

Although with his unit In Korea only a very short period before his untimely death, George made an Indelible impression upon both the officer and enlisted personnel of his company by his remarkable ability to understand the situation and solve the problem at hand. On one occasion he led a convoy of trucks almost one hundred miles over unchartered roads, with the constant threat of the enemy to his flank, in order to get back to his unit.

On the night of his death, his signal repair unit was attached to the Sixth Republic of Korea Division, a very fluid organization. When word reached George that approximately 2,400 North Korean troops were almost upon them, there was no hope of an organized withdrawal. Being In a walled enclosure, their only hope of escape was in fleeing over the far wall. The proximity of the enemy was disclosed when one man was wounded by small arms fire. George's Distingulshed Service Cross citation reads in part ". . . With total disregard for his own safety Lieutenant Hannan maintained his position, although wounded several times, until all the enlisted men had cleared the area. When the enemy stormed into the compound, by sheer weight of numbers, Lieutenant Hannan was overwhelmed. The gallant sacrifice of life and heroic action of this oflicer saved the remainder of the detachment from certain annihilation. . ."

George Is survived by his widow, Mrs. Georgia Banks Hannan, of 1731 Princeton Avenue, Saint Paul, Minnesota; his parents, Colonel and Mrs. William S. Hannan, of 902 East Capitol Avenue, Pierre, South Dakota; his brother, William S. Hannan, Jr., of Austinville, Virginia; and his sister, Mrs. William A. Griffith of Palmerton, Penn. His family and friends knew him to be a person of high ideals with a great capacity for leadership. An editorial written after his death said in part, " …George Hannon was a gentleman by nature, a soldier by profession, and an officer by merit and Act of Congress…he died in the performance of duty assigned to him In the service his country . . . we hope his sacrifice will promote the cause of peace in a better world. . ." . George’s remains were returned to United States for burial and on 28 May 1951 he was laid to rest with all military honors at Riverside Cemetery in his home town of Pierre, South Dakota. Quite appropriately, the memorial services were closed with the words, "He gave his life so that others might live ... no higher tribute can be paid to any man ... Well done, good and faithful servant."

- His widow Georgia and his classmate Harold G. Nabham

John Richard Hall, Jr.

NO. 17585  •  18 July 1927 – 7 September 1955

Died September 7, 1955 in an Aircraft Accident at Stewart Air Force Base, New York, aged 28 Years.

 

JOHN HALL, the elder of two children of John and Lucille (Cary) Hull, was born July 18, 1927, in South Bend, Indiana.

Between 1927 and 1930 he lived in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and Davenport, Iowa. In 1934 his parents moved to Muscatine, Iowa where he lived until entering the service in 1945.

Perhaps no better theme for John's life can be found than the phrase of his classmates in the Howitzer: "One did not have to know him very long to realize that he was a truly remarkable individual." The qualities of "efficiency", "quick thinking", sincere purpose" and "sense of humor" which fill our memories of this friend are characteristic of John's whole life.

John determined the fine line between enthuslasin und zealotry. He was actively interested in many fields, both intellectual and athletic. In these pursuits, as in his leadership of men, he gained respect and affection by his example.

He was an insatiable reader, and his room in his Muscatine home was lined with books. He created a local sensation when, as a child, he exhausted the resources of the Muscatine Children's Library.

During his early school years John was an outstanding athlete, excelling particularly in basketball. He continued his athletics at the Academy, winning a major "A" in track. He was not a great runner, and at times it appeared that he might not make the team. But then, as a roommate has written, "his tenacity of purpose and determination won the victory." The continuing influence of athletics was revealed just the day before his death, when John happily told his wife that he had at last beaten George VIisides in a tennis match.

Another trait of long standing was a quiet efficiency. His sister gives an example of one of John's earliest attempts at organization, "He ran his paper route so effectlvely that he didn't have to go collecting. He had his customers put their money in a certain place, and would collect it as he delivered the Sunday papers." As a Captain of Infantry, John still had this knack for simple organization and administration which he had first showed as a paper boy.

John was a Roman Catholic. He received his primary and secondary education at St. Mathias School, in Muscatine, where he graduated with the Class of 1945. The tender respect and love with which his former teachers honored his mortal remains was a fitting testimony to the impression which he had made. One of his teachers later wrote, "His faith was deep, and his character strong, even as a child." His steadfast holding to religion, demonstrated by his service as an acolyte, even to the time of his death, reflected the deep impress of his early training.

The life of a soldier had an early appeal to John. His sister writes that his three young nephews now play with the lead soldiers, "red and blue," which John had cast and painted. He also felt the lure of flying. As an eighth grader he entered a kite contest. His kite was huge, and covered with red cellophane with a tissue paper fringe, It won first prize for performance, and also for beauty. John's last flight was an attempt to further explore the mystery and exhilaration of flying: A first ride in a jet, which he anticipated with the same joy and enthusiasm that had gone into building his prize?winning kite.

In November 1953, John married Betty Jo Gregg at Fort Benning. This happy wedding, attended by a great party of classmates, was a fitting climax to a courtship which had started while John was serving in his first station at Puerto Rico. The excitement of the courtship never died, and John's two years of marriage were busy and happy ones. He never forgot the "little things which mean so much."

What tribute can we pay to this man? In the lives of his wife, his family and his friends, there is a gap which can never be refilled. But he has left part of himself with us. His fine abilities, his faith in others, and his personal example have left their mark on all who knew him. May we remember his example, and fill ouir lives with the joy and purpose which characterized his own.

Carter Burdell Hagler

NO. 17798  •  24 August 1928 – 28 November 1950

Killed in Action November 28, 1950 in Korea, aged 22 years.

 

When this historic shaft shall crumbling lie
In ages hence, in woman’s heart will be,
A folded flag, a thrilling page unrolled. 
A deathless song of Southern chivalry.
Fame’s temple boasts no higher name,
No king is grander on his throne;
No glory shines with brighter gleam,
The name of "Patriot" stands alone.

These words are carved in a granite monument beside the first Capitol of the Confederacy. They commemorate the brave soldiers of the South who lost their lives in the terrible war Of 1861-65. They might verywell have been written to honor another soldier who fell in battle almost a century later.

His uniform was not gray or butternut brown, but the green fatigue twill of the modern army. The battlefield on which he gave his life was not in Virginia or Tennessee, but thousands of miles to the west on the barren hills of a small Asian country. The flag which he followed was not the Stars and Bars of the Confederacy, but that of the United States of America, both North and South. But the cause for which he fought was no less noble, and the sacrifice he made no less great!

Carter Burdell Hagler was born in Augusta, Georgia on August 24, 1928, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Waterman Hagler. From the earliest recollections of those who knew him, he always stood out among his fellows. I can verify this. I first met him at a boys’ camp in 1938, eight years before we entered the Military Academy. He was an outstanding camper, completely without pretense - one of those few people that everybody considers a good and cherished friend. Children are often inclined by their very nature to be mean or bullying to those less able than themselves. During the two years I knew him at camp, I never saw or heard him show anybody, from the most popular to the least liked, anything but kindness and friendship.

Carter attended and was graduated with honors from the Academy of Richmond County, Augusta, Georgia. There he won many coveted honors. He was on the track, tennis and rifle teams, a member of the Beta Club, the Literary Society, the Annual Staff, the R.O.T.C. Sabre Club, and the Hi-Y. He was awarded the Gold R, was a Lieutenant in the R.O.T.C., and a member of the Order Of the Arrow of the Boy Scouts of America.

Front the day he entered West Point, Carter was admired and liked by everyone. The way his classmates felt toward him can be best summed up by this excerpt of a letter from a classmate to his family. "You will want to know that Carter was the only one I know who never had an enemy, for Carter was incapable of being mean and unkind to anyone. In countless 'gab’ sessions, which men always have, Carter alone was discussed as being the best in every respect. There is no other fellow cadet or officer who came through those discussions unscathed. I believe this to be the highest tribute." What this classmate wrote, I know to be the literal, unembellished truth.

Along with others of us, Carter went directly from graduation leave to Korea, and the war in progress there. On the 16th of September, a classmate reports seeing him go over the side of a ship and down a landing net into a waiting L.S.T. which was to take him to his first combat. I am certain he was smiling with the same confidence and encouraging others around him in the same inspiring way that he always did.

Less than two months later on November 28, 1950, Second Lieutenant Carter Burdell Hagler poured out his young life for his country on a Korean hillside. The heroic action in which Carter fell is outlined in his citation for the Silver Star for gallantry in action. As a forward observer of Battery C, 57th Field Artillery Battalion, Seventh Infantry Division, he was attached to Company L, 3d Battalion, 31st Infantry, which was in position near the Chosin Reservoir on the east coast of North Korea. "Vastly numerically superior enemy forces threatened to overrun positions held by this battalion and other units of the division. Lieutenant Hagler moved his forward observer section to the highest accessible ground in the area to better direct artillery fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, though exposing himself to heavy enemy fire and observation, Lieutenant Hagler placed himself in an open position from which he could call for artillery fire on the attacking enemy forces. In his effort to hold the high ground, he left the men of his section in the shelter of their covered positions and personally delivered messages to the Infantry commander regarding his observations. During the course of battle on 28 November 1950, the telephone line between Lieutenant Hagler and the artillery fire direction center was knocked out by enemy fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Hagler made his way through enemy lines to the artillery fire direction center and after procuring the needed wire for reestablishing communications, started to lay it back to his position when he was struck down by enemy fire and killed."

About Carter, his battery commander said, "Lieutenant Hagler was a fine officer and a gentleman. Men in this organization, while I commanded it, sought assignment in his section. He was well-liked, and it was a pleasure to have been his commanding officer."

In Augusta, Georgia, an American Legion Post is named for Carter. A window has been erected to his memory in the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, of which he was a communicant.

There are three living memorials which bear his name. Perhaps they will to some degree fill the void that has been left in the hearts of those who knew him and contribute some of the goodness to this world which he would inevitably done, had he lived.

The first of these memorials is his cousin’s child, Carter Burdell Boardman; the second is his brother’s little boy, Carter Burdell Hagler; the third, I am proud to say, is my son..

"Blessed are the poor of heart; for they shall see God." Matthew 5:8.

- Will Hill Tankersly

Thomas Patrick Greene

NO. 17724  •  10 January 1929 – 10 February 1951

Killed in Action February 10, 1951 in Korea, aged 22 Years.


Thomas Patrick, "Pat" as he was known to all, was born at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, January 10, 1929, the sixth son of then Major and Mrs. Douglass T. Greene. From there it was a succession of stations, as it is in all Army families, At each new station "Pat" rapidly made new frIends but never forgot the old.

"Pat" started High School in Fort Smith, Arkansas, where his father was CommandIng General of the 16th Armored Division. When transferred from Fort Smith, his father decided to establish a permanent home for his family in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia. This was home to "Pat"; the former places of living took on the aspect of pleasant tours of duty, but Drexel Hill is where he made his dearest friends and firmest ties. It was in Drexel Hill that "Pat" graduated from Upper Darby High School In the class of 1946.

It was only natural that "Pat" should go to West Point. Both of his grandfathers, his father and two of his brothers were graduates, and he directed all of his efforts to joining them in the Long Gray Line. He won the appointment from the 7th Pennsylvanla Congressional District and realized his ambition when he entered the Academy in July 1946. The following four years were happy ones. His easygoing manner made the routine of the Academy pass quickly and his inherent leadership abilities were brought out and nurtured so that he rapidly advanced toward his goal, a good officer. Underneath his easygoing and jovial attitude was a deeply serious man. "Pat" was one who put his service to GOD first and this seemed to be his inner drive and calm. His comradeship and sympathy were there for all. Graduation for "Pat" was a time of great happiness as well as sorrow. Happiness because he was joining the service he loved and sorrow because of the many friends he was leaving.


His graduation assignment was with the 7th Infantry at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, in the company that both of his grandfathers had commanded years before. The regiment left the States for Korea in September 1950, landed first in Japan to receive its compliment of Korean fillers, then proceeded to Wonsan, Korea. in November; thence inland to cover the left flank of the withdrawal of the Marines and the 7th Division from the Chongijn Reservoir, and finally covered the withdrawal through Hungnam, where Pat was the last officer off the beach. He was back into the line again in the drive up the peninsula during the middle of January. On February 10, 1951 while leading his platoon - a part of the leading elements of the regiment - against the Walled City of Korea, Son-Son-Ni, "Pat" went to the assistance of his lead scouts, who were pinned down by fire, and while covering their withdrawal was instantly killed.

He was awarded, posthumously the Silver Star for his part in this action, with a citation which read: "During this bold action, as he fearlessly drew the enemy attention to him, Lieutenant Greene was mortally wounded by a sniper's bullet. The conspicuous gallantry and steadfast bravery exhibited by Lieutenant Greene reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the most esteemed traditions of the military service."

"Pat" has joined the ghostly assemblage"; the Army has lost a fine young officer; his family a wonderful boy and his friends a marvelous comrade. "Well Done."

- A Classmate

John H. Green

NO. 17652  •  30 Apr 1926 - 15 Oct 1952

Killed in Action in Korea


John Henry Green crammed about as much living, loving, and leading as humanly possible into his short 26-year lifespan. The quiet sterner's young life was snuffed out in a fierce firefight in the rough and rocky terrain near Kumhwa, Korea.

Born in Orville, CA, in 1926, John was raised in Green River, WY, a town of about 11,000, tucked in the southwest corner of the state. Upon graduation from Lincoln High School in June 1944, John enlisted in the Army Air Corps. A professional military career soon beckoned, however, and, in January 1946, Green sought and won an appointment to the United States Military Academy from Senator Joseph O'Mahoney. The young soldier was enrolled at West Point Prep at Amherst College, MA, to sharpen the academic skills he would need as a plebe.

John Green's massive shoulders stood out as hundreds of new cadets formed up for swearing-in ceremonies on the Plain early in June 1946. Cadet store tailors surely worked overtime refashioning dress coats, jackets, and tunics to fit Green's impressive frame.

Academically, John was a good student with a wide array of extracurricular activities. CDT Sergeant Green of I company, 2d regiment, was a member of the camera, debate, ski, and (of course) weightlifting clubs. His first love, however, was gymnastics, where, as a plebe, he mastered difficult high bar routines and won numerals.

As a first classman, John was awarded his letter as a rope climber, helping Army win the eastern intercollegiate team championship that year.

Graduation ceremonies for Class of '50 were on June 6th. Later that month, the handsome blonde officer was in demand as usher and groomsman at his classmates' weddings. The new 2LT John Green wooed and won the heart of Doris Eleanor Bridges, a petite and attractive chestnut-haired native of Greenville, SC. They were married in Greenville on 27 Dec 1950.

The North Korean Communist attack on South Korea shortly after graduation plunged a shocked United States into another Asian war. Green and hundreds of his cadet classmates (along with thousands of American and U.N. troops) headed for the Korean peninsula from 1950-51. When 1 LT Green took over company B of the 32d Infantry in 1952, the one-time air cadet, Army corporal, and cadet sergeant had completed airborne training, platoon leader school, and other specialized training at Ft. Benning, GA.

In early October 1952, the large-scale Operation Showdown was approved by Far East Commander General Mark Clark for elements of the Eighth Army to seize Hill 598, the famous Triangle Hill located squarely in the middle of the DMZ.

Earlier that summer, Lieutenant Green was seriously wounded but returned to action within two months to lead company B of the 32nd regiment in Operation Showdown. Heavy air strikes and artillery barrages preceded the attack. Thousands of seasoned enemy troops responded with vigorous counterattacks during the next eight days. LT Green played a pivotal role, defined in detail by the citation posthumously awarding him the Distinguished Service Cross. His award citation is as follows: "LT Green, a member of an infantry company, distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Kumhwa, Korea. On 15 Oct 1952, Lieutenant Green, a company commander, led his men in an assault on a vital enemy position through a barrage of small­arms, artillery and mortar fire. In the course of the attack, the company was subjected to fire from a camouflaged position, threatening to halt the advance, Lieutenant Green, leaping from cover into a communication trench, without regard for his own safety, hurled hand grenades to neutralize the enemy machine gun. When the company was again subjected to devastating fire from a tunnel under one of the trenches, Lieutenant Green moved forward to destroy the position and, in the process of silencing the guns, received wounds which later became fatal. Resuming the advance despite his painful wounds, Lieutenant Green led his men in an attack against the hostile forces. His courageous and inspirational leadership was greatly responsible for routing the enemy and securing the strategic ground. The extraordinary heroism exhibited by Lieutenant Green on this occasion reflects great credit on himself and is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service."

1 LT Green's broad shoulders could not shield a heroic heart against enemy bullets and shrapnel. Operation Showdown ended major U.S. involvement in the Korean War at a total cost of 365 American soldiers killed in action and 1,174 wounded.

John's battle death "saddened the entire town," when it was reported in his hometown paper, the Green River Star (Wyoming). "Johnny was well known there and had many friends who kept track of his military career."

John's roommate, Luther B. Aull, and his wife, Louise, also of Greenville, SC, named their two sons John and Edmund after John Green and Edmund J. Lilly III, both of whom were killed in action during the Korean War "...as a living memorial to the sons John and Ted never had."

John was survived by his mother, Mrs. Kenneth Young; his wife, Doris Green; and his ten-month-old daughter, Janet Eileen; all living in Green River, WY, at the time of his death.

- Written by classmate Donald E Dunbar

John M. Garrett, Jr.

NO. 17419  •   21 September 1925 - 6 November 1951

Died in air accident over Luke Air Force Base, AZ

 

John Mansell Garrett, Jr., was born in Birmingham, AL. He attended schools in Delta and Lineville, AL and graduated from Messick High School in Memphis, TN, in 1943. Setting his sights on attending West Point, John spent one year, 1943‑44, at the Marion Military institute, AL, to prepare for USMA.

Unable to obtain an appointment to West Point after Marion Military Institute, he joined the U.S. Army in August 1944. During the next 22 months John attended the USMA Preparatory School at Lafayette College, PA. He served out his enlisted duty with the Army Replacement Training Center at Ft. Knox, KY, leaving as a technician (fourth grade) with the Good Conduct Medal and Victory Medal and an Alabama at‑large appointment to West Point from Senator John H. Bankhead. John successfully passed his entrance examinations and entered and West Point in July 1946 as a member of the Class of '50.

John came to West Point well prepared academically and possessed a broad grin that practically guaranteed quick and lifelong friendships. He breezed through academics, finishing in the upper six percent of his class, while spending time and effort trying to keep some of his classmates proficient in their studies as well. That reflected  the concern he had for others. John still had time to plan his weekend parties at the Greystone Mansion or Ft. Putnam and arrange dates for himself and others. His drags were so invariably "pro" that classmates looked on with amazement and even envy.

John credited his cadet success with being "bald and red headed," traits that the fairer sex found irresistible. Many laughed with him and credited his success to his ever‑present smile. John was an excellent team player, "All The Way," whether in sports, company activities, or cadet projects. His extracurricular activities were confined to track, rifle, and a number of clubs that could earn him an overnight or weekend trip. However, he did stay with the Pointer staff and Camera Club from Plebe through First Class years, resulting in countless hours in the club's basement dark room. John’s classmates had no doubt that his combination of intelligence, humor, wit, savoir‑faire, and happy‑go‑lucky attitude made him a perfect fit for the Air Force, which was his branch choice. At graduation he was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Air Force.

After completing graduation leave in August, he reported to Connally Air Force Base in Waco, TX, for Basic Pilot Training, then attended Advanced Single Engine Training at Craig Air Force Base, AL. He left Craig with his pilot wings and reported for Advanced Gunnery Training at Luke Air Force Base, AZ, in August 1951 with follow‑on orders to Korea in January 1952.

On 6 Nov 1951, John took off from Luke Air Force Base with a flight of F‑51s and proceeded to the Gila Bend Gunnery Range on a routine training mission. During the flight, he put his aircraft into a dive attitude following other aircraft in the flight. For some reason, he failed to recover from the maneuver and his plane crashed into the ground. John died instantly. In a letter to John’s father, the commanding officer of the 127th Pilot Training Wing stated, "John was known to all as a capable, sincere, and energetic officer who enjoyed the respect and admiration of his fellow officers and airmen of the squadron."

When John died, he left behind his father, who was a civil engineer with the U.S. Corps of Engineers, Memphis District; his stepmother Sarah Prewitt; and his sister Margaret Thompson. He also left behind among his Academy classmates a lasting memory of a wonderful human being and a dedicated member of the Long Gray Line whose promising career was unfortunately terminated much too soon.

- Clyde Spence and other M‑1 Company classmates

Thomas Francis Casserly, III

NO. 17376  •  16 June 1928 – 1 October 1952

Killed in Action October 1, 1952 in Korea, aged 24 Years.


LIEUTENANT THOMAS FRANCIS CASSERLY, III, was born June 16, 1928, in Englewood, New Jersey, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Casserly, Jr.

Tom entered the United States Military Academy In 1946 with many future friends and classmates. His ability to project his sincere understanding to others was felt even in Beast Barracks, where we first had the honor of knowing him. Through four years of diligent work and training, Tom not only bettered himself but also helped to better others. On many occasions he offered his time and assistance to classmates who were having difficulty in various subjects. He wore academic honor stars during his plebe year, but because he was helping so many other cadets, his own standing fell slightly the last three years. He often told us that honor and achievement did not always have to be visible; what mattered most was what one's heart and soul felt. This was Tom, a true, loyal and sincere friend to all, and loved by all. 0n graduation, Tom took a commision in the Air Force and in his training he again excelled.

On August 9, 1951, he married Elizabeth Fissell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. H. Fissell of Montclair, New Jersey, at Our Lady of Sorrows in South Orange, New Jersey. By January 1952, Tom was off to Korea where he fought his last and greatest battle. The following are extracts from two letters written to Libby after Tom’s death - we know a man by what his friends say:

From a classmate: "There was something magnetic about Tom; I've known many people better than I knew him, but never have I formed such an admiration or affection on actually, a casual acquaintance. He had ability plus - I knew that from the Point. Yet he was so friendly and well-adjusted that to talk to him was pleasant as well as stimulating. I don't think I've ever known a man with more self-respect that came from within. He didn't talk about his ideals, but from his way of living and working they were apparent. On the other hand, his confidence was as far from egotism as black is from white; his conscientiousness was not the eager type by any means. He didn't butter up the right people to get ahead. He just did a better job than anyone and let the record stand quietly".

From his Squadron Commander: "His sheer capacity for work and thoroughness in performance of duty were far beyond that ordinarily found in an officer of his experience. . . I feel that you should know that prior to his accident, he was recommended for the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and the Silver Star, the latter for uncommon bravery in action against the enemy while attempting the rescue of another downed pilot. It is the consensus of all of us who have served with Tom that he represented the highest ideals of the service he so genuinely loved".

Tom was killed on October 1, 1952 in Korea, as the result of a plane crash while returning from a combat training mission. He had been indoctrinating a new officer in the type of formation being flown in Korea when his ship developed a mechanical failure.

Tom was a true Christian, whose sole ambition in life was to help others. Towards this end he dedicated his short but full life.

Tom has a daughter Susan, born on June 29, 1952 whom he never saw, and it is she to whom we would like to dedicate this article. Like your father, Susan, may you always be able to place your ideals ahead of personal achievement and consider your greatest reward personal satisfaction from helping others.

- Five Company Classmates

Lynn Holt Camp

NO. 17700  •  27 March 1929 - 25 July 1950

Died July 25, 1950, At Tucson,  Arizona. Aged 21 Years

 

It was a bright sunny morning late in July in a little cowtown of Willcox, Arizona, but everywhere there was sadness and gloom in the air. Today one of Willcox's heroes was to be buried. Lieutenant Lynn Holt Camp came home to be laid to rest. The largest crowd ever assembled at Lynn's home Methodist church was there to tell him good-bye.

There were the West Point graduates, Lt. Frank Borman, Lt. Ross Mayfield, Lt. Jack Magee, Lt. Al Crawford, Lt. Geo. Cannon, Lt. Joe Love, and Lt. John Hurst, to be his active pallbearers. Davis Monthan Air Base had sent its representatives to be the Guard of Honor. There in the family pew sat his parents, Lynn and Edith Camp, and his two sisters, Helen and Janet -- whose grief everyone shared and hoped that their thoughts and prayers would comfort the Camps in their trying hour.

Many people throughout the state were horrified when they read their papers on July fifth to see that Lt. Lynn Camp and his fiancee, Miss Diane Holley, had plunged off the bridge at the ill-famed Cienga Wash in southern Arizona.

Lynn and Diane had left for Tucson early that July morning, to make plans for their impending wedding. There was a slight drizzle of rain and as the car came around the curve it slid over the edge of the bridge and plunged down the canyon for a distance of 200 feet. Rushed to Tucson, Diane and Lynn fought for their lives. They were both given a very slim chance to survive. For twenty days Lynn carried the fight but the Lord called him on July 25th. Diane is presently at the KessIer Institute in West Orange, New Jersey, where she is improving until she can come back to Arizona to make her home.

Lynn was born March 27, 1929 in Superior, Arizona. His early grammar school days were spent in various schools throughout Arizona until his folks made their home in Willcox. Already noted for a very keen mind, Lynn, upon entering high school, began to devote much of his time to music. Blessed with a very fine voice, he was very much in demand for singing engagements in the church and school. Also, at an early age, he choose the trumpet as his musical instrument. He became known as one of the finest trumpeters in the state, appearing in music concerts and festivals. "The Teen-Agers", a high school swing band, was formed and directed by Lynn, and supplied dance music for Willcox and the surrounding communities during war.

Athletics were not slighted by Lynn because of his musical career. In his freshman year he was the first string center on the football team, a position he held until he graduated. Also, he was a three year letterman in basketball. track, and tennis, and a one year letterman in baseball. He holds the distinction of being one of the three men in Willcox's history to win five letters in one year.

His scholarship was unexcelled in high school, and he finished the work in three years instead of four. He led his class throughout those three years and on graduation night, Lynn gave the valedictory address for the class of 1946.

All kids have dreams as to what they want to be when they grow up, but Lynn had only one goal in mind - to attend West Point. He was young when he graduated from high school, being only seventeen years old. He applied for his appointment, took the examinations and was relegated to the position of alternate. The chance came sooner than expected because the boy ahead of him failed his physical examination, and in July 1946, Lynn was West-Point bound.

The surroundings were new for the Arizona boy, but with determination and this inward motto, "To try to surpass one’s seIf should be an occupation as long as life itself', he assumed the task of becoming an Army officer.

First came his nickname, "Bongo", and then his interest in the very fine West Point musical organizations. He sang all four years with the Glee Club and Chapel Choir. In his last two years he was choral director of the "100th Night Show". He also served as Secretary -  Treasurer of the Dialectic Society.

Lynn didn't lose his desire for sports activity at the Academy. There, with the many fine facilities available he became adept in many skills that he had not had the chance to develop while in Willcox. He played on the B squad team in football for two years. His valuable experience in tennis added much to Company D-1's championship team.

In June 1950, Second Lieutenant Lynn H. Camp had reached his first goal - graduation from West Point. Next came his orders to report to the Air Force at Randolph Field, Texas, for flight training. Another ambition had been fulfilled. Then came the trip to Arizona for a vacation before reporting for duty.

Last on the calendar of Lynn's life was the fateful accident while he was home before going to Texas. Looking back over Lynn's past life we will always be able to say he fought the good fight -- his family, his community, his state, and his country gained much by his devotion and his loyalty to them.

- Written by Marvin "Swede" Johnson

Howard Gallaway Brown

NO. 17942  •  12 January 1928 – 22 September 1950

Killed in Action September 22, 1950 in Korea, aged 23 Years.

 

HOWARD GALLAWAY BROWN was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, on the 12th of January 1927, the third of four sons of Dr. and Mrs. George L. Brown. The days of his boyhood and youth were lived in his hometown, where he acquired the qualities of character and personality that made it a pleasure to know him as a man.

His high school days were spent at Tupelo in preparation for entrance to West Point. In High School he was an outstanding guard on the football team and played in the school band.

After high school he attended Mississippi State College for a year prior to entering the Military Academy in 1945.

He entered West Point determined to carry on the military tradition of his family. His grandfather fought with the Confederacy in the "War Between the States". His father fought in the Spanish American War and served as a medical officer in World War I. An uncle and two cousins are graduates of his Alma Mater.

Howard entered the Academy with the Class of 1949. His plebe days were interrupted when he received a knee injury playing football which resulted in his being awarded a large star to wear on his bathrobe. After a few months at home he joined the Class of 1950 as a member of Company L-2 In January 1947.

It was not long after his arrival in the company that Howard was tagged with the nicknames "Tupe" and "Brownie", both of which received equal usage. His sincere unselfness and friendliness, his sense of humor, and his winning smile immediately won the friendship of everyone in the company. Although those were the most apparent of his attributes, close association with him as a roommate for three years revealed his wholehearted application of effort to attain his goal of becoming a thoroughly competent officer.

His attitude was always wholesome, and he possesssed well-rounded capabilities of leadership. These attributes were bolstered by his steady personality and his knack for influencing others with good judgment and common sense. He never aspired to stars on his collar as a cadet, but he never lost sight of his goal of being the best officer possible, which might easily have resulted in his wearing stars on his shoulders as an officer.

The lighter side of his cadet days was devoted to frequent waving of the Confederate flag during discussions of whether or not the South would rise again. He played the harmonica both well and loud. He participated In intramural athletics, and was a sprinter on the Corps swimming team during his First Class year.

When graduation rolled around "Tupe" was commissioned in the Infantry.

His graduation leave was divided between home, a fishing trip to Canada, and a trip to Louisiana, before reporting to Camp Stoneman for shipment to Okinawa.

Instead of a boat to Okinawa, he took a plane to Japan and reached the front lines of Korea on September 3, 1950. He was assigned as 1st platoon leader of Company "A", 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Division. He joined his unit in the midst of a North Korean break-through during some of the roughest touch-and-go fighting of the Korean War. He weathered the last few days of the Pusan Perimeter, in which the enemy launched numerous attacks. In the allied offensive after the Inchon landing, he was killed by small arms fire on September 22 while attacking a heavily fortified enemy hill. Colonel Michaelis, his regimental commander, wrote his parents:

"As a member of this command your son was liked by all his associates. He was an excellent soldier performing all tasks assigned him in a cheerful and efficient manner, winning the commendation of his immediate superiors and the respect of his comrades. News of his death came as a real shock to all who knew him, and his loss will be felt keenly in the organization".

Details of his death were received in a letter from his Battalion Chaplain:

"You have every reason to be proud of your son. He died a hero's death. As platoon leader of the 1st platoon, Company "A", he gallantly led his men into action on the assigned mission of attacking a heavily fortified enemy hill. By his courageous personal example and the display of qualities of leadership in the finest traditions of the United States Army, the mission was successfully accomplished. Howard was instantly killed by enemy small arms fire. The few men left in Company "A" who were with him at the time still remember Howard as an exceptionally able officer and a very fine person. In the few days that he was a member of the company he succeeded in winning a warm place in the hearts of his comrades.

"Howard's body was brought by litter jeep to the regimental station where it was noted that his face had a reposed and peaceful appearance."

When his personal effects were sent home his class ring was not among his belongings. Months later his ring was found on the person of a dead North Korean and turned over to a classmate who sent it to his parents.

Howard now rests in the Tupelo Memorial Park Cemetery. In dedication to the memory of a gallant soldier, a chapel of the First Presbyterian Church in Tupelo has been named the Howard Gallaway Brown Memorial Chapel. Many of us who knew him may not have an opportunity to visit his memorial, but his friendship, his character, and his ability will be a living memorial in our hearts.

A fitting tribute to his memory is contained in something which Shakespeare wrote about another military leader:

"His life was gentle, and the elements
So mIx'd in him that nature might stand up
And say to all the world, This was a man".

 

- Alfred L. Griebling, First Lieut., C.E.

Thomas Wesley Boydston

NO. 17480  •  26 April 1928 – 26 April 1951

Killed in Action April 26, 1951 in Korea, aged 23 Years.

 

THOMAS WESLEY BOYDSTON was born April 26, 1928 at Marquette, Kansas. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray T. Boydston and moved with his family to McPherson, Kansas at the age of six. He received his elementary education in the McPherson Public Schools, graduating from McPherson High School in May 1946. He received his appointment to West Point in July of that year.

McPherson was proud that July morning when word went around that he had received his appointment. The discussion on Main Street was not of the wheat which was being harvested, but of the honor Tom had brought to his town and himself in receiving the appointment to the United States Military Academy. That evening the local paper carried a front page story of the event. Just four months before, Tom, as captain of his high school basketball team, had led that team to the finals of the State Tournament, where, with practically the entire town witnessing or listening by radio, his team lost by only one point in an overtime game.

As a boy in high school, Tom was everything a parent might dream his boy would be. In Junior High he received the American Legion Honor Award as the outstanding student. In Senior High he earned letters each year in football and basketball, and yet found time to devote to his studies so that he graduated us Valedictorian of his class. In his senior year his classmates elected him "Prince Charming", during the biggest event in the local community, the annual May Day celebration.

In his younger days Scouting was one of Tom's first loves. His Scoutmaster writes: "Tom entered into his scouting in a way that gave the leader a wealth of compensation for his service. He especially enjoyed "the full fellowship and comradeship that a boy finds in a good troop. Tom was the troop's first song leader, and I clearly recall the joy he had in singing the songs learned in camp, always wearing that infectious grin that we cannot, nor ever will forget. On October 4th, 1944, Tom was awarded the Eagle Badge by his wonderful mother who was ever his inspiration. Among his classmates, friends and townspeople it was the unanimous opinion that Eagle Scout Tom Boydston typified the ideal in American boyhood. Tall, handsome, and friendly, with all of the fine qualities in the out-of-doors or on the Athletic Field. He lived a clean, Christian life".

Concerning his life at West Point, Colonel John K. Waters, Commandant of Cadets, wrote Tom's parents: "Tom demonstrated from the early days of his plebe year, 1946 - 47, his ability to be outstanding among the select group of young cadets who were his contemporaries. He was neat and soldierly appearing; he was capable in practical matters such as drill, physical education and administration; he was well equipped intellectually for the academic work; and he was of good moral fiber and character to base a career as a military leader. Tom's approach to cadet life was balanced and mature.He was serious about his studies and he took an active interest in athletics and other extra-curricular activities. His graduation standing of 134 out of 670 speaks well for his academic and military efforts. In sports he won the Academy athletic monogram playing soccer in his third class year. He was an outstanding forward on the Army Basketball team, earning a monogram his third class year and a major "A" award in his second and first class year".

John Mauer, Tom's basketball coach, a man Tom greatly admired, wrote: "In my twenty-five years that I have coached, I have never had a boy who did as much to improve himself or work harder than Tom did while playing for me. He had every characteristic that a coach wants in a boy along with fine morale and warm spirit".

After graduation from West Point, Tom reported to Fort Riley on August 1, 1950 for his first assignment - the 91st Reconnaissance Squadron - where he was stationed until he received his overseas orders. He reported to Fort Lawton, Wash. on October 11th and was flown to Japan on the l4th, arriving in Korea in the latter part of October. Almost immediately he was at the front line, serving for a few weeks in an Infantry Division until he received his permanent assignment with Company A of the 70th Tank Battalion. He was promoted to First Lieutenant early in January 1951. On April 26th, 1951 - just one day after Tom had passed his twenty-third birthday, he was killed in action.

Captain O'Neal, Tom's immediate superior, wrote to his parents: "Tom's death was a blow to all of us here. He was a friend and ideal to the men of his platoon. They would, and have, followed him any place. Tom was one of the most promising young officers I have met in fourteen years of Army service. I have two sons and I hope they will be as good men and soldiers as your son. . . I can tell you a little of the action when Tom was killed. Our company, with the Infantry Regiment we are attached to, was ordered to Kapyong to plug a gap in the lines made by the Chinese in their spring push. On this particular day we had pushed several miles out in front of the Infantry, shooting up the enemy rear areas. We were moving up a valley, tank platoon leading, when we came under fire from about three hundred Chinese at close range. Tom's tank was hit by several bazooka rounds and a fragment hit him in the back of the head, killing him instantly. We withdrew shortly afterward and Tom's body was turned over to the Medics".

The news of Tom's death came as a terrible shock to his family and friends. He leaves his father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Ray T. Boydston of McPherson, Kansas, and his sister, Mrs. E. B. Sundahl with her husband and two small sons, Thomas and Kevin. We are grateful for the privilege of having known such a fine personality. We know that we are better for having had his fellowship. I sincerely believe he met the ideal of the poet who wrote:

"Four things a man must learn to do if he would make his record true:

To think without confusion clearly;

To love his fellow men sincerely;

To act from honest motives purely;

To trust in God and Heaven securely."

- Rice Brown, Jr.

Warner Turner Bonfoey, Jr.

NO. 17677  •  21 December 1927 – 29 October 1951

Killed in Action October 29, 1951 in Korea, aged 23 Years.

 

The tense, anxious days of waiting for Bud's next letter were over. The dreadful message came twenty four days from the date he had last written, October 17th.

Bud had been so faithful writing to us every week since his arrival in Korea, the first week of June 1951. He had written three or four letters each week. He treated the dangers of his being a forward observer very casually, and stressed the amusing little incidents that occurred among the men, and the beauty of a Korean sunset. . . Our local newspaper carried his picture with an account of his life and activities at school, on Monday, November 12. Then on Thursday, December 13, the following appeared in the newspaper: "Lt. W. T. Bonfoey Rites Tuesday. Memorial services for First Lt. Warner T. Bonfoey, Jr., 23, killed in action in Korea October 29th will be at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday in the House of Hope Presbyterian Church, Summit and Avon.

"Born December 21, 1927 in St. Louis, Lt. Bonfoey came to St. Paul as a child with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Warner T. Bonfoey, 2146 Sargent Avenue. He was the only child. Lt. Bonfoey was graduuted from St. Paul Academy in 1946. He played on the academy football, hockey and baseball teams. He entered West Point, played hockey for four years, received three letters on the varsity squad, and stood above average in scholastic work. He was graduated with a bachelor of science degree. Assigned to Fort Bliss, Texas, he was ordered to Korea in April 1951, and was assigned to the First Cavalry Division, 61st Field Artillery Battalion as forward observer and for patrol work with the Infantry. He also had duty with the Republic of Korea troops and a company of U.S. armored tanks. He was wounded by an enemy grenade while on outpost duty for his own battalion and died before aid could reach him."

Bud's childhood was an unusually happy one. Our home movies show a lively, joyous little golden haired boy with laughing blue eyes. He was so loved - the joy and delight not only of his parents but of his grandparents, who adored him.

Of the many, many letters of tribute to Bud, the following seem to express the overwhelming grief and shock his loss meant. . .

"Of all the boys that I have had in the last forty-five years, Bud was one of the very rarest. His young friends and all of us older people felt just the same way about him - we loved him. It seemed as if when he was around, the sun was shining."

-John de Quedville Briggs, Rtd. Headmaster, St. Paul Academy.

 

"On Monday I announced it to the school as best I could, telling them that the flag would fly at half-mast In Bud's memory. The burden of my brief remarks was that Bud was one of the finest boys ever to graduate from this school - or any school. If there is any comfort to be had, perhaps it comes from our good fortune in havlng known and lived with, however briefly, a boy of Bud’s disposition and calibre. Certainly the Academy is a better school for his having been here."

-Edward M. Read, Headmaster, St. Paul Academy.

 

"My heart is at half-mast, just like the flag at the Academy. You have lost your dearest hope. We have lost the boy of whom we have been most proud for all those qualities that make a charming boy, a young man of true nobility.

Wherever the boys today and tomorrow are trying to do their best in all humility, with an untaltering step in spite of trials and difficulties, the spirit of Bud Bonfoey will be walking right along beside them to cheer them on and lend a helping hand."

-Bob Blampied, Master of French, St. Paul Academy.

 

The following appeared in the December issue of the St. Paul Academy paper, the Now and Then:

"Warner T. Bonfoey, Jr.

'Buddy' Bonfoey came up through the Junior School, graduated with the versatile and talented Class of 1946, and entered West Point. He graduated from the Military Academy in 1950, a Second Lieutenant, and was promoted to First Lieutenant this fall. The shocking news has come to us that he was killed in action in Korea on October 29th.

"In the Academy, Buddy made a fine scholastic record, and played on all three major teams; he played Plebe and Varsity Hockey at West Point. But it was neither his high scholarship nor his athletic prowess that made him one of the best loved boys ever to attend the Academy. When he was in the Prep Form, one of his small classmates was heard to remark that Buddy 'had the best disposition of anyone in the class'. He might truthfully have said 'anyone in the world'. He took everything in stride, unperturbed, with a smile. and did his job, as he must have done it to the end. When I visited him at West Point, on a miserable, cold, dark winter day, most of the cadets there looked strained, unhappy and depressed, When Buddy appeared to have dinner with me at the Hotel Thayer, it was as if the sun had burst through the clouds. Just to know him made the grim world a happier place. That combination of strength with sweetness and gentleness is a rare and precious thing.

"The English poet Henry Newbolt, in a poem 'Clifton Chapel', refers to a memorial tablet on the chapel wall, in that old English school:

"'Qui procul hine' the legend's writ- The frontier grave is far away

"Qui ante diem perlit: Sed miles, sed pro Patria"

'Who died In a far off land, before his time, but as a soldier should, in the service of his Country.' No brass tablet Is needed to keep alive the memory of Buddy Bonfoey. He will live and be loved forever in the hearts of those whose lives he touched."

-John de Quedville Briggs.

 

There has been a scholarship set up at the St. Paul Academy in memory of Bud, and an Inter-city Hockey trophy, called "The Bonfoey Hockey Trophy".

From the boys he had grown up with:

"I cannot express to you how I share your grief. Bud was such a grand friend and such a wonderful boy, and I always admired him to the utmost. His loss is a shock that will stay with me as long as I live."

-Dick Quinn.

 

"It was with a great feeling of shock that I just heard of the loss of Buddy. He had always been one of the best friends that I ever made at school and on all counts was certainly one of the finest and most respected boys that St. Paul Academy ever turned out. You can take great pride In Buddy's entire life, as I and his friends can feel proud that we just knew such an outstanding person."

-Jay Levine.

 

"The news about Bud left me with a feeling I shall never forget. It’s still difficult for me to believe that it's all actually true.

"Bud was one of the finest men I have ever known. We spent some wonderful times together; from guarding the defensive left flank of the Academy (St. Paul) team to double dating on Saturday nights. I shall always consider him among the very best of my friends. He was liked by everyone. Bud was just that kind of a guy. His pleasant personality, his good natured disposition, his conscientious way of accomplishing every task, are just a few of the many qualities about him which appealed to everyone with whom he came in contact. His memory will dwell in all of our hearts forever."

-Arnie Bockstruck.

 

From West Point classmates:

"Most of my contacts with Bud were with the hockey team. I shall never forget them. The assist he made in scoring the winning goal over Yale in 1948-49, the winning goal over Royal Military College in '49. Every now and then he would stop in the room for hockey business or to see Mike. Believe me, it was fun, every minute of it. It was a pleasure to have known Bud. We shall all miss him very much."

-(Lt.) Richard Trefry.

 

"I was very close to Bud from the time we both reported for duty at Ft. Bliss in August 1950 until April 1951 when he left for Korea. We were roommates from the time Tony (Lt.) de Jenuary married until April when Bud left. I realize that nothing I can say will help to ease your grief of losing him. Bud was undoubtedly the most clean-cut boy I've ever known in my life and as devoted a friend as anyone could ask for. His whole outlook on life was so wholesome, and he saw so little evil in both people and environment around him, that I often felt that I and others were cheating ourselves inasmuch as we couldn't appreciate life as completely as he did. So I hope and pray that, despite the fact that his life was cut so short, he gained something from life that I shall never be able to gain as long as I may live.

"If I told you I felt some of your grief, it would probably sound like a meaningless platitude, but I can assure you I feel his death deeply. I only wish I could make you understand how much he was loved by all who came in contact with him."

- (Lt.) Bill Jones. (Lt. Jones (Wm. R. D.) was Bud's Military Escort when Bud was laid to rest at West Point.)

 

"It was a great shock to me to read in the Army-Navy Journal of Bud’s death. Although my association with Bud lasted only a few months, we were very close friends and I was anxiously looking forward to the day when I might be stationed with him again.

"Bud, with his happy outlook on life, was the type who made friends easily and then kept them due to his cheerful spirit, kindness, unselfishness and other desirable traits of character. It is these things and many other attributes that are hard to describe which cause myself and his other associates to feel that we have lost a fine friend.

"While my connections with Bud have always been on an off-duty status, I do know that he established an outstanding record as an officer at Fort Bliss and that, although only a second lieutenant, was highly respected by the other officers and men of his battalion. With Bud's courage and devotion to duty I am confident that his superior record was continued in Korea. He definitely had a promising career ahead of him, and the Army has suffered an irreplaceable loss.

"It seems such a short time ago that I received a letter from Bud saying that he had received his overseas orders that very day. It is hard to believe that he is gone. Knowing how much Bud thought of his parents, I know that his loss is quite a blow to you. Yet I do want you to know that your loss is shared by many people upon whom Bud made a lasting Impression."

-Richard C. Tuck (Capt.), U.S.M.A. '46

 

"I enjoyed so much my last visit with Bud at El Paso. I shall always remember the sparkle in his bright eyes, his winning smile and the feeling I had while I was with him and since, that here was a young man destined for great things if he could be spared the scars of war. I am sure I knew Bud much better than he realized. I was deeply interested in him and his future. I admired his intellect, his courage and his manliness. I have often thought how happy I would have been had I the good fortune to have had a son like your Bud.

I know how proud both of you have been of him, and with such right to have been proud. He has now given his life on the battlefield for us all. May I be so bold to hope that in the knowledge that you have of his devotion to his country in making the supreme sacrifice, will in some measure allay your grief on his passing."

-James E. Kelley.

 

The usual letters of sympathy came from the General, and Bud's Commanding Officer;

"I cannot begin to tell you how deeply sorry I am to hear of Bud's death. It was a shock to me, as well as to my classmates. General Ridgway has asked me to convey to you as much information as I can concerning Bud.

"Here is the exact account of Bud's death extracted from the Adjutant General Casualty Branch here In Tokyo, Japan, as received from Bud's outfit:

"Bud was forward observer on hill of unnown number near Yanjimal, when an incoming rifle grenade landed ten feet from Bud; flying shrapnel hit him in the lower legs, and from loss of blood and shock Bud died.

"I believe Bud was the most congenial, affable person I have ever come in contact with. Never once did Bud pass a disparagIng remark to or of anyone. I know that consolation or sympathy could never bring Bud back, but I do want you to know that I thought a great deal of him."

-Arnold A. Galiffa (1st Lt.)

 

From Walter Reed Hospital, Washington, D. C., came the following:

"I learned a few days ago, of the loss of your son. It came as a terrible shock. Bud and I met that first day of July, 1946, as we were about the same height. We were close friends for the following four years. This past October we met unexpectedly in Korea. Our forward observer had broken down with battlefield fatigue. Bud had volunteered to take his place. He joined us one evening and aided us considerably in saving another company and a part of our company with covering artillery fire. This job was typical of Bud’s fine work while he worked with my company.

"On October l7th I was hit, with our objective in sight. I was happy to think that Bud had come through all right. He had the respect of all of us who worked with him. Then I read the bad news in Assembly.

"I saw your son when the going was tough - and he had in his constitution what you will find in the makings of a fine officer and gentleman. I know I speak for all his classmates when I say we are proud to have known him."

-Joseph T. Griffin, Jr. (Lt.).

 

A letter from young Sgt. Steve Kolstad, who was constantly and closely associated with Bud during June through part of October, on observation duty, states; "I have recelved a letter from Paul Welsh (radio operator on duty near the front the day Bud was killed). As you can see Bud was liked by everyone. I am proud to say that I served with him in Korea".

At the Memorial Service, our minister. Dr. Irving West, spoke simply and factually of Bud's life.

"Bud was one of the first acolytes of this church. He was always the finest example of young Christian manhood in the life of the church and community. Bud graduated from the St. Paul Academy in 1946, then he went into West Point, where he received his commission in 1950. Always his Christian faith shone from his life. This was very evident during his service in the Armed Forces. Words, always so feeble at best, can never convey the grace and strength and beauty of his life. Like Cyrano de Bergerac, he has crossed over with his 'white plume unsullied'.

"'Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."'

A few days after the bright cold day of the Memorial Service, came the following:

"I can think of no surer evidence that no life is incomplete than that great church filled with people who came - both to share your sorrow and to show reverence to the glory of your son's sacrifice. So I shall never again hear 'Glory, Glory, Hallelujiah' that I do not think of that beautiful boy of yours and be grateful to him."

-Elizabeth Kennedy (Mrs. Walter) and Walter Kennedy.

 

On Monday morning, March third, Bud was laid to rest In the cemetery at West Point. Chaplain Pulley read the simple sermon, as cadets from Bud's Company L-2 acted as guards of honor, and Lt. Wm. R. D. Jones was present as Bud's Military Escort. The dark gray day and the sad tones of the muffled drums seemed to reflect the deep grief In our hearts.

We are thankful to have had Bud with us for the twenty-three years, and we shall think of him as just "being away."

- His Parents

Medon Armin Bitzer

NO. 17778  •  5 June 1927 – 8 January 1952

Killed in Action January 8, 1952 in Korea, aged 24 Years.

 

For those of us who knew Don, there is nothing that might be said which could tell us more; and for those who did not know him, these words can never express our sorrow at his passing nor give any measure to the depth of his friendship.

Don was born 5 June 1927, in New York City. His childhood and elementary school days were spent in Johnson City, Tennessee; then for high school, Don first put on a military uniform at Tennessee Military Institute. In 1945 he graduated from Castle Heights Military Academy and became a member of the Army Air Force. When he received his appointment to the Military Academy, Don was transferred to the USMA Preparatory School, then at Amherst College, Amherst, Massachusetts. On 1 July 1946, Don put on his grays and was sworn in at Battle Monument with the Class of 1950.

The military aspects of his life as a cadet were nothing new to Don - and he fast became a friend in need and in deed to those of us who found the rigid beast barracks life difficult. Plebe Russian and the other academic pitfalls gave Don his share of late Iights--but, somehow he managed to find time for trips with the varsity boxing team - as its lightest contender. For four years Don represented West Point in the Eastern Inter-Collegiates only to be out-pointed late in the eliminations on each occasion. In his "cow" year, he was a corporal; and in his First Class year Don carried the Supply Sergeant's saber and shouldered the additional job of being the Duty Committee Representative for Company E-2.

We had a fine company when Don was a First Classman, and it was due in no small measure to Don's hard work, level head, friendly smile, and common sense. Don's exemplary character and devotion to duty left a lasting mark on his classmates, upperclassmen, and underclassmen. In four years of close association at school, during times when nerves were especially on edge, never was there ever anything said of Don which was less than complimentary . . . Don was a standard of fine American manhood.

Upon graduation Don chose the Air Force and was assigned to Goodfellow Air Force Buse, San Angelo, Texas, for basic flying school. Basic was completed in January of 1951, and Don elected to become a conventional engine fighter pilot. For the next six months flying the F-51 Mustang, and hazing our classmates in the multi-engine and jet aircraft were Don's primary considerations. On 4 August 1951, at Craig Air Force Base, Selina, Alabama, Don received his wings and orders to Korea. There was a pleasant leave at home in Johnson City; then a happy three months in Combat Crew Training School at Luke Air Force Base, Phoenix, Arizona. Another visit at home preceded the trip to Camp Stoneman, Hawaii, Wake Island, Tokyo, and Korea.

Once in the Far East Air Force, Don was assigned to the famed 18th Fighter Bomber Group ... the last operational fighter group flying F-51's. He was among friends in Korea, for seventeen of his USMA classmates and most of his flying school classmates were also assigned to the Mustang group at WonJu, Korea. Combat check-out and missions came slowly because of the lack of airplanes and the presence of bad weather.

The 67th Fighter Bomber Squadron, to which Don was assigned, had a streak of heavy losses; and prior to his fifteenth mission Don saw two of his classmates and four of his friends from flying school killed or taken prisoner by the Communists. On 8 January 1952, Don was on his 15th mission, a dual purpose, two target, fighter strike in North Korea. Don dropped his bombs on the railroad deep in enemy territory; then on the return trip to his base, hit an important secondary target of supplies and personnel near the front lines, with his rockets and machine gun fire. As he broke away from the target after firing his first rocket, he and his aircraft were hit by enemy automatic weapons antiaircraft fire. Because he was hit personally and was at a low altitude, he was unable to abandon his burning aircraft and crashed into the target area.

Don, like his older brother, Conrad, who was killed in World War II in Germany, in 1945, found a "soldier's resting place beneath a soldier's blow" . . . part of the heavy price we have paid for our participation in two recent wars. As a soldier, Don would have been the last to expect combat without casualties; and as a Christian, he would be the last to have us mourn his death . No finer soldier has graduated from West Point; and Don was as fine a Christian as a soldier. He was never one to parade his beliefs, but no one was ever more sincere or devout. To know him was to realize that he was a sound Christian with the deepest kind of practical religion.

Medon Armin Bitzer, First Lieutenant, United States Air Force, Purple Heart, Air Medal, is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. M. A. Bitzer of Johnson City, Tennessee; his sister, Edith; and brother, Carl Wilfrid.

No words can express how deep is our sorrow or how great our loss at the death of this young soldier - airman . . . a soldier by even Kipling's rugged standards; but our personal loss cannot compare with the loss to the United States and to the Christian world of so promising a leader and citizen as Don.

- W.H.B and R.W.S.

Aubrey Lee Benson

NO. 17971  •  13 December 1927 - 1 August 1950

Died August 1, 1950, at Colorado City, Texas aged 22 years

 

AUBREY LEE BENSON was born December 13, 1927 in Colorado City,Texas. He was the elder son of Mr. and Mrs. Aubrey C. Benson.

His life followed the usual pattern of a small‑town boy, except that he was unusually serious of purpose and deeply interested in learning. He was one of the honor students when graduated from grammar school, and also when graduated from Colorado City High School in May 1945. Immediately following graduation, he enrolled in the University of Texas and remained there until June 1946.

During his school years he gave much time and attention to Scouting and earned numerous merit badges. He was enthusiastic about all phases of school activities, and was popular with students and teachers because of his dependability, efficiency, and good fellowship. He loved athletic sports so much that he gave them the time they required; then put out of his mind all else and became completely absorbed in his studies as he had been in football, basketball, or tennis. One of his most admirable characteristics was his ability to do whatever task was his in the best possible manner, never being satisfied with anything half done, whether it be study, a game, or wrapping a Christmas package.

Through Congressman George Mahon of the Nineteenth District, Texas, Aubrey Lee was granted the privilege of taking the entrance examinations for West Point and entered the Academy in July 1946. He received the appointment with great humility and wrote his parents saying, "The credit is yours for my having this chance to realize an earnest desire and ambition to attend West Point. I am grateful for the  training I have had through the years. The thought of the responsibility that is mine almost frightens me. I shall give the best that is in me to be worthy of this honor".

Aubrey Lee was serious and conscientious, and adjusted himself to the discipline maintained at the Academy because he knew that every part of it would be helpful in the years ahead. He knew that being a good soldier meant more than drilling, and marching and fighting. It meant living in a man's world as men should live.

Upon graduation on June 6, 1950, Lee was assigned to the 11th Airborne Division at Ft. Campbell. Ky., and was to have reported August 5, 1950 to Ft. Benning, Ga., for parachute jump training, after a sixty day leave with his family in Texas.

During his vacation at home, much of Lee's time was spent with the young men who had been his friends since his first grade in school. They laughed and talked of the fun they had had through the years and speculated on the future. Often their conversation was about the world situation, Army life, and life in general.

It was July 26, 1950 when the fatal automobile accident occurred that took Aubrey Lee from us. His mother and father were with him at the time. They and Don, his brother, were constantly at his bedside in the hospital until his death on the morning of August 1st. The very best medical and nursing care were given him. Captain Pheil, neuro‑surgeon of the General Hospital at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, came by plane and operated within a few hours after the accident, but the injury was so serious that it could not be overcome.

Lee's funeral was in Colorado City, Texas, in the First Baptist Church of which he had been a member since he was fifteen. Rev. R.Y. Bradford officiated. The church was filled with flowers and with the friends he loved so much. Honorary pall‑bearers were the boys from his high school graduating class. With military honors he was laid to rest in the Colorado City Cemetery. His grave is on a little knoll which overlooks the town and from which can be seen the tall poplar trees that grow near his home.

We can hardly believe that Lee is not still with us. We all feel a deep personal loss. His slow smile, his good humor, his kindness, and his seriousness of purpose endeared him to those with whom he came in contact. He was devoted to his family and their happiness was uppermost in his mind. His love for his mother was often expressed in little notes of appreciation which he would write at night after he finished studying. She would read them the next morning as she went about her work. The deep affection Lee and Don had for each other was unusual and beautiful. Lee was vitally interested in Don's every activity, and Don idolized "Buddy". The relationship between Lee and his Dad was more than that of a father and son. They were comrades and friends.

Aubrey Lee's life cannot be measured by the number of years that were allotted to him but by the things which were accomplished in that brief span. As we watched him unfold the pattern of his life, we were never disappointed, because he achieved at every turn what he set out to do.

One of his close friends who is now in the Army wrote this to his mother and dad, "I think about Lee quite a lot. When the going gets rough, I try to think as he did about it. No doubt there were times when he, too, was discouraged, but I know he decided to give it his very best, as he did everything. I would like to be the kind of soldier he was. Maybe he knows how hard I'm trying. I can't hope to do as well as he did. I am probably just an average G.I, but I'm trying..."

Aubrey Lee as a soldier felt that he personally was a guardian of American Freedom and could have sincerely said the words of Frederick S. Wilson: "Let each and everyone of us remember that Liberty is a gift not lightly given: that we within ourselves, must preserve for generations yet unborn, a vision of brotherhood among men, until one day all the world shall be ready to share it."

- Written by N. H. White, Jr. and Lena V. White