Phillip E. Nicolay

NO. 17727  •  12 Feb 1927 - 20 Apr 2005

Died in Naples, FL. Ashes scattered in the Gulf of Mexico.


Phillip Elmer "Pete" Nicolay's home town was St. Louis, and he was a loyal Cardinal fan and member of Branch Rickey's original Knothole Gang. As a boy, he loved to go fishing and hunting with his father hobbies that became lifelong interests.

Pete attended Western Military Academy in Alton, IL, and when he applied to West Point, he was a third alternate for a congressional appointment. The first man resigned his appointment, however, and the second failed the physical, so Pete entered the Academy in 1945. A Plebe football injury held him back a year, so he did not graduate until 1950.

Those who remember Pete from his West Point years recall a fine bridge player, an avid skeet enthusiast, and a member of the Fishing Club and Skeet Club. He could also be found on the ski slopes during snowy New York winters and became a competent skier.

Upon graduation, Pete chose the Infantry and trained as a paratrooper at Ft. Benning, GA, before serving in the 11th Airborne Division at Ft. Campbell, KY. There, in 1950, he married Marion Barnes an 'Army brat.' In early 1952, Pete was assigned to Korea with the 3rd Division, transferring to the 612th Field Artillery Battalion on Okinawa in 1953, where Marion joined him for a year.

In early 1954, Pete resigned from the Army as a first lieutenant and became an aerospace engineer with Rocketdyne at Edwards Air Force Base in California, working there for six years. He eventually became chief of all Rocketdyne operations on the base. During Pete and Marion’s time there, they adopted two children, Julie and Phil.

Pete then took a year off from engineering to own and operate a small casino in Carson City, NV a heady experience. He and Marion greatly enjoyed the beauty of the scenic area, the friendly people, and the best climate they had encountered during their nomadic life together.

In 1961, Pete returned to his first profession, accepting a position with Pratt and Whitney in West Palm Beach, FL, as a supervisor in their rocket testing program. He later transferred to Connecticut, working with aircraft engines and fuel cells.

Raising their children was a challenge and a delight for Pete and Marion, and he enjoyed watching them grow and mature. He encouraged his talented daughter Julie in her musical ambitions and helped Phil by teaching him to fish and shoot. He also coached and managed Phil's Little League teams. Julie now lives in Tucson, AZ, and Phil divides his time between New England and the Florida Keys, captaining boats for a New York businessman.

While living in Connecticut, Marion pursued a master's degree to teach art in a Connecticut high school, and Pete encouraged her in her efforts. During those years in New England, Pete fullfilled a lifelong dream of becoming a private pilot. Soon Marion also took up flying, and they purchased a small plane of their own. They ultimately owned five such planes at different times and established an aviation mail order business that they ran out of their home for several years. Pete was proud that they took their last plane, a Cessna Skyhawk, into 49 states (they never made it to Hawaii). They also flew to Canada, Mexico, and the Bahamas in that plane, nicknamed the Bluejay.

In 1982, Pete retired and spent a short time working in real estate. In 1988, he and Marion moved to Marco Island, FL, where Pete thought he'd gone to heaven. He was a happy boat owner, loved the fishing in Southwest Florida, and played golf and bridge. Pete also served on the board of the Marco Men’s Club for several years and was a member of St. Marks Episcopal Church on the island. During their retirement, he and Marion traveled to Europe several tunes and spent many happy days cruising on commercial liners in the Caribbean. Some of these trips were with small groups and others were just as a couple. In 2000, they celebrated their 50th anniversary by flying to Vancouver and boarding a liner to sail down the West Coast, through the Panama Canal, and finally to Puerto Rico a memorable trip.

After moving to Florida, Marion began writing a column on cooking for the local paper Occasionally, Pete also wrote a column. He was a superb and innovative cook and assumed at least half of the kitchen duties later in life. For a year, he wrote a humorous column for the same paper, "My Nickel’s Worth," in which he poked gentle fun at local politicians, tourists, and other tempting targets.

When computers entered his life, he determined to master them and in time acquired enough expertise to untangle Marion's frequent computer problems and help friends with their own computers. He never lost his love of bridge and history and acquired a large library of historical books and atlases along the way.

Pete once said to his children, "Don’t miss me too much when I'm gone I've had a good run for my money and done almost everything I ever wanted to do." It is a fitting tribute to a much loved man who enjoyed life to the limit and made the same thing possible for the people around him.

- His wife

John E. Miller

NO. 17909  •  7 Sep 1927 – 13 May 2003

Died in Fircrest WA
Ashes held by family

 

John Elbridge Miller was born in Fitchburg, MA, to Elbridge and Marion Miller He spent an idyllic childhood with his sister Shirley and brother Donald in the small towns of Waterbury and Montpelier, VT. John graduated from Montpelier High School, where he excelled in public speaking and won the Statewide Oratory Contest. He also loved acting and singing.

John reported to West Point in 1946 and managed to survive Plebe year. He sent many letters home describing cadet life, letters his family preserved. One of his memories was of arriving late at the Army Navy Game. With spectators cheering him on, he raced around the stadium in full-dress coat, arriving just as his company marched onto the field. He walked the area a long time for that one. At West Point, John sang in the Cadet Glee Club, performing for President Harry S. Truman and meeting his daughter Margaret. He also sang in a barbershop quartet, beginning his Iife long passion for four part harmony. Roommate Clark Martin remarked that no one could believe that such a booming bass voice could come from someone so slight.

John was commissioned in the Coast Artillery (which became Air Defense Artillery) and was assigned to Okinawa as a platoon leader in the 97th Anti Aircraft Artillery group. He later served as the battery executive officer for two years. According to classmate D.S. Wilson, John, D.S., and classmate Stan Prouty were like the Three Musketeers and became lifelong friends. During this time, John, Stan, Lake Churchill '48, and another singer formed a barbershop quartet!

Returning to the States, John commanded a battery near Washington, DC. He was next assigned to Ft Bliss, TX, to attend guided missile staff officers school. He remained for three years, teaching Nike Air Defense System maintenance. In Texas he met the love of his life, Barbara Winter. They married in 1954, and two daughters were born in rapid succession: Katherine in 1955 and Deborah in 1956.

In 1957, the family moved to Ft. Sill, OK, for the advanced Artillery officers school, and then to Philadelphia, PA, where John was the staff guided missile officer. During that tour, the headquarters moved to Pedricktown, NJ; hence, the next two Miller babies were born in separate towns John, Jr., in Swarthmore, PA, and Sharon in Pedricktown, NJ. In 1961, when Barbara was expecting baby number five, John received orders for Viet Nam. The family moved back to El Paso, TX, where Barbara’s family lived, and ten days after baby Jean arrived, John left for Viet Nam. Their oldest child was only six! Barbara and the family remained in El Paso while John served in Viet Nam for a year as combat advisor to the South Vietnamese 2nd Infantry Division Artillery. He was in charge of planning & training and combat operations.

Fortunately, John was then assigned to Ft. Bliss, where for three years he worked in the Nike Hercules guided missile program. In 1965, he began a three year tour in Germany, where, again, the family moved three times from Stuttgart to Heidelberg to Wurzburg. In Germany, John was chief of the air defense section of Headquarters, U.S. Army, Europe. Subsequently, he was executive officer of an Air Defense group and then served as group commander. For his services in Europe, he received the Army Commendation Medal.

Returning to CONUS, John was assigned to the North American Air Defense Command, known as "NORAD” , based just north of San Francisco. True to form, that headquarters soon closed, and John was assigned to McChord AFB, WA, in the same command. There he received the Meritorious Service Medal.

In January 1971, John, as a 43 year old lieutenant colonel, suffered a major heart attack. He survived but decided to retire from the service. The family bought a home near Tacoma, WA, and John attended the University of Puget Sound, earning a bachelor's (1973) and master's degree (1974) in accounting. His degrees were conferred the same two years his two eldest daughters graduated from high school! John then went to work for the State Auditor in Olympia but left that organization to establish his own accounting business.

John rekindled his love affair with barbershop harmony, singing in a Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Singing in America District Championship Quartet: The Commencement Bay Flounders and Seafood Conspiracy. Following the demise of the quartet, he went into acting, even appearing as a featured extra on an episode of the television show Northern Exposure. John and Barbara participated in community theater productions of On Golden Pond, The Gin Game, and many others. John’s favorite musical roles were Alfred P Doolittle in My Fair Lady and Captain Andy in Showboat.

In 1988, John suffered a second heart attack, followed by open heart surgery. Using his usual determination, he soon recovered, still busy and optimistic. In 1990, while auditioning for a play, he suffered a full cardiac arrest. Later he would muse that not only did he not get the part, but he was not even cast as the dead body, a part for which he had had EXPERIENCE' 'The following years were spent in and out of the hospital, but John still remained very active in theater and in barbershopping. In March 2003, John’s weakened heart finally began to fail, followed by end-stage renal failure. He exited "stage left” on 13 May, leaving behind his wife of 49 years, five children, and five grandchildren.

John was beloved by all and was a truly honorable man. He was a courageous man, cheerful and optimistic despite health problems and surgeries. Even in retirement, John lived the concept of "Duty, Honor, Country." We were so blessed to have had him, and he is sorely missed. Now he is truly our butterfly and lives on in our hearts. Well done, John; be thou at peace.

- Wife Barbara and Classmates

Arthur A. McGee

NO. 17739  •  18 May 1928 - 30 Sep 2001

Died in Stanford, CA
Interred in Holy Cross Cemetery, Menlo Park, CA

 

By everyone's admission, Arthur Alten McGee led a wonderful life. His childhood was spent in Loraine, OH, along the shores of Lake Erie. With parents, siblings, and an extended family of uncles and aunts, Arthur was a member of a close knit Irish Catholic family during the difficult years of the Depression and World War II.

A superior student at St. Mary's High School, Arthur's decision to attend West Point did not surprise many. His father had applied to the West Point Class of 1917 but was denied admission because of a heart murmur. Arthur's father then entered the Army during World War I, served in France, and rose to the rank of captain in the Artillery. His wartime experience fostered in Arthur’s father a deep respect for West Point officers, and Arthur grew up listening to stories about these great men.

Arthur attended West Point in the halcyon days after World War II. He was in awe of the officers who served on the faculty, each a proven war hero. When asked to record his special memories of West Point for the 50th Reunion, he wrote: "Winning the brigade intramural cross country championship in May 1949 [and] attending the Army-Michigan football game in Ann Arbor with about 200 classmates. The stadium was filled to capacity with 102,000 fans [witnessing] the underdog Army team defeat one of the top ranked teams in the country... Marching in Harry Truman's inaugural parade in Washington D.C.... the parades when we marched down Fifth Avenue in New York City... and our entry into the stadium for the Army Navy game in Philadelphia.” West Point gave Arthur full, rich memories for the rest of his life.

Fifty years after graduating, Arthur reflected on the pivotal role West Point had played in his life. "West Point permitted me to leave a small town in Northern Ohio and enter a larger world with greater opportunities and broader experiences.... It developed in me a willingness to assume responsibility and leadership of major projects during my service and civilian careers.... I learned basic concepts, such as the role played by line and staff, the chain of command, delegation of authority, the need for oversight of subordinates and respect for superiors. Finally, it instilled in me the importance of service to find fulfillment in life. . . .'

Arthur’s classmates remember his common sense approach to any task or problem, which, along with hard work and a sense of humor, helped him find solutions to complex problems. Arthur’s success as an intramural runner depended on his approach: the first two of his three years of competition yielded mediocre results. Through persistent effort, however, he improved in each competition and ultimately won the coveted brigade championship.

Upon graduation, Arthur entered the Air Force, where he served for nine years in assignments at bases in the United States and Europe. In 1954, while earning his masters degree at The Ohio State University, he met Lorette Marie Devine. Recognizing that he had met his 'one and only' and never reluctant to seize the moment, he asked her to marry him on their first date. She accepted, and they were married nine months later on 11 Jun 1955.

In 1959, Arthur left the Air Force to work for IBM. After three years, he joined the Stanford Research Institute (later SRI International) in Menlo Park, CA where he remained for 30 years. He served as the manager for many interdisciplinary studies for business and government, work requiring extensive foreign and domestic travel. His coworkers remember him as intellectually curious, gentlemanly, and an effective colleague.

Simultaneously, Arthur was the head of a large family with five children: three girls (Ann Marie, Kathleen, and Noreene) and two boys (James and Joseph). Arthur and Lorette’s family eventually included five in laws and nine grandchildren. Arthur excelled as a father. Although he traveled frequently, he forged a deep and personal relationship with each of his children, recognizing each child’s attributes and abilities, fostering individual growth, and helping each to realize his or her dreams. At home, he focused on his family. One of his hobbies was long distance bicycle riding. He led a team of his children on grueling 800 to 1,000 mile bicycle expeditions annually, and he made these rides thrilling adventures that his children cherished. Most importantly, the rides allowed him to spend special time with his children and to impart valuable lessons about life. During these rides, he would instill in them the importance of duty, hard work, and the need to be a good person. A devout Catholic, Arthur would share examples and lessons to impart his faith.

In May 1990, he returned to West Point for his 40th Reunion and then stayed another week to watch his youngest son, Joseph, graduate from the Academy. Joseph continues to serve in the Army as an Infantry officer. After retirement, Arthur attended classes at a local college in subjects as diverse as the classics, art, history, and piano. He also volunteered to help students who were struggling. Many of them were young immigrants trying to make better lives in the United States.

In the early hours of 30 Sep 2001, Arthur suffered a massive and unexpected heart attack and passed away in the arms of his wife of`46 years. A diverse assembly of people gathered for his funeral: young students, business leaders, gardeners, doctors, bus drivers, and retired Army officers. They came to say goodbye to a friend who found the best in each person he met and to a man for whom the ideals of "Duty, Honor, Country" formed the core of his existence. His example continues to inspire all those who were fortunate to know and love him.

- Family and classmates

Joseph M. McCrane, Jr.

NO. 17879  •  11 Jul 1924 – 28 Sep 2003

Died in Napa, CA
Interred in West Point Post Cemetery, West Point, NY


Joseph Mathew McCrane, Jr, born to Joseph and Margaret McCrane in Clifton, NJ, was one of nine children and the oldest of seven boys. After graduating from St. Anastasia Grammar School in 1938, he received a scholarship to Mt. Carmel Seminary in Niagara Falls, Canada. After three weeks there, he discovered they did not play football and, therefore, at age 13, he gave up his priesthood ambition and hitchhiked home to enroll at St. Francis Xavier Jesuit Military School in New York. Upon graduation, he received nine football scholarships but chose Fordham because freshmen there could play varsity.

At age 17, with the outbreak of WWII, he quit Fordham and joined the Marine Corps, becoming a specialist in bomb disposal. Shortly thereafter, he was on his way to Guadalcanal, landing there in February 1943. From there, he went to Green Island, Bougainville, Rabaul, Samar, and Okinawa, earning five battle stars. Joe returned from the Pacific as a corporal in December 1945.

While on Samar, he received a letter from Andy Gustafson, one of West Point’s football coaches, asking if Joe wanted to play football at West Point. It was a dream come true. Joe summed up his years at the Academy, "I came to West Point from a different perspective. I was 21 years old a big difference. I had been to Guadalcanal, to Okinawa, had five battle stars. I wasn’t a kid. West Point to me was fun! I looked forward to every day because I was having a ball compared to my previous life where I was making $21 a month. At West Point, I got paid, got three square meals a day, and could play football. Me! Playing football at West Point. They would have to drag me out of this place!"

The 100th Nite Show was one of the highlights of Joe's Academy experience. Through his work on this show, he met his future wife, Joan Mori. He and Elliot "Stud" Heit went to New York City and hired the famous ballet teacher, George Balanchine, to teach the football team chorus line dancing. While in New York City, Joe and Stud crashed a party, and there he met Joan, who was attending Skidmore College. As a result, the college in the 100th Nite Show was called Slidemore College.

After graduation, Joe was assigned to Panama. Since the Korean War had broken out during graduation leave, Joe regularly requested a transfer to Korea, but his requests were continually denied. In 1953, he resigned his commission and joined the Reserves. In 1957, he formed the nation’s first Special Forces Reserve Unit at Kearny Shipyards in New Jersey. Later, after attending paratrooper school, he became a lieutenant colonel in charge of nine Special Forces units. In 1961, he volunteered his 3,000 reservists for action in Viet Nam, but that request also was denied.

In addition to his Army activities, Joe had his share of business ventures. He worked for his father in law, who owned the Hialeah and Garden State Race Tracks. Under Joe’s supervision as general manager, the Garden State Race Track thrived, and he reinstituted the Jersey Derby. He later became president of the Cherry Hill National Bank, director of Camden National Bank and Trust Company, and president of McAndrews & Forbes, an international licorice and paperboard firm. He also joined a conglomerate to purchase Shannon Airlines and was one of the producers of a British horror film, 'The Vulture', starring Akim Tamiroff. Joe joined with "Red" Blaik and Vince Lombardi in a failed attempt to purchase the Philadelphia Eagles. He also made unsuccessful bids for the Washington Redskins, the San Francisco 49ers, and the Miami Dolphins. With Robert Kennedy in the group, Joe dealt with Sonny Werblin in another failed attempt to purchase the New York Jets.

In the political arena, Joe was appointed to the New Jersey State Treasurer under Governor Cahill and played a major role in the construction of the Meadowlands Sports Complex. "I was the one who dreamed it up. That was my creation. I chose the Meadowlands because there were 16,000 acres of land, and NYC was like an offshore oilrig. And the NY Giants were nearby. It was perfect!"

Joe then got what he described as the best job ever: international vice president for Hess-Eisenhart, maker of bulletproof cars. Joe sold them in 57 countries with contacts supplied by the State Department. In one sale, he was paid in diamonds.

Joe enjoyed life, crediting faith for much of his success. Red Blaik, whom Joe described as a "West Point combination of MacArthur and Lombardi," also had a great impact on him. Joe thought of Blaik as the ripples created by throwing a pebble in a lake. "The ripples go out, and they never stop. They touch everybody. That’s what a great teacher does. He touched thousands of lives. And I was one of them." Joe, too, sent out ripples that touched off who knew and loved him. Joe's passing was sudden and unexpected from a heart attack at age 79. One of his last accomplishments was to write his biography, as yet unpublished, entitled, 'The Next Best Thing to War the Joe McCrane Story', written with Lawrence Babich and Harvey Marc Zucker.

Joe's five children, Maureen, Mathew, David, Constance, and Siobhan, and six grandchildren survive him. His second wife, Janet Shaheen, to whom he was happily married for 15 years, predeceased him. 

The family would like to thank all who helped make Joe's funeral at West Point so memorable, specifically: his brother, Father Gerard McCrane, to whom we always look for spiritual guidance and strength, and Joe’s classmates for their lasting friendships and respect, and for guiding us to West Point. We appreciate all their thoughts and prayers and will treasure these lasting memories forever.

- Family and classmates

Jack V. Mackmull

NO. 17911  •  1 December 1927 - 3 April 2011

Died 3 April 2011 in Melbourne, Florida, aged 83 years.
Interment: West Point Cemetery. West Point, New York

 

Jack Vincent Mackmull was born in Dayton, OH, to Melford F. and Olivia A Mackmull. He attended Roosevelt High School. The Roosevelt "Teddy Times" newspaper graduation issue displayed each graduate's picture and noted for Jack, "Happy and smiling, athletic, smart, friendly, and loyal." Jack was considered one of the city's top athletes, winning letters in football, basketball, and baseball.

Upon graduation from high school, Jack had numerous offers of college scholarships but "destiny" stepped in and offered him a chance to attend West Point if he could pass the entrance exam, which he did. Jack entered West Point in July 1946 with the Class of 1950. He wasn't the "Happy and smiling Jack" that first year and would later laugh and say, "The only good thing that year was plebe Xmas." The years did improve. He was on the varsity football team and baseball team all four years and graduated in June 1950, selecting Infantry as his Army basic branch. Eleven days after graduation he married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Marie Boehm, and during their 60 years of marriage they had three children: Jack Jr., Stephen Jeffery, and Kimberly Ann.

Second Lieutenant Mackmull's first duty station was Alaska for two years, back to Ft. Bragg for two years, and then to Korea. When he returned from Korea, Jump and Aviation schools came next. Jack was selected for the Command and General Staff School in 1960 and remained on as an instructor.

The following was said at Jack's induction into the Army Aviation Hall of Fame: "Few Army Aviators have had the variety of important aviation assignments throughout a career as Lieutenant General Jack V. Mackmull." While Chief of the AWO Branch during the early days of the Vietnam War, he managed the greatest expansion in the history of the branch. Recognizing that Aviation Warrant Officers had no definite career program, he personally wrote the forerunner of today's Aviation Warrant Officer Program.

He had three combat aviation tours in Vietnam, first commanding the 13th CAB in 1964, and then one of only three aviation battalions in USARV. On his second tour, he commanded the 164th CAG that included all aviation in the Mekong Delta and effectively integrated Air Cavalry, airmobile, and attack helicopters and aviation logistics in all combat operations.

In 1972, he returned to USARV for a third tour to command the 1st Aviation Brigade, which encompassed all Army Aviation in Vietnam. He effectively managed the drawdown of all aviation units and equipment - a retrograde movement of some 15,000 men and more than 1,000 aircraft - without stopping aviation combat operations.

As Deputy Commanding General of AVSCOM, he participated in the source selection of the Black Hawk and Apache, and designed and implemented "Systems Management" which is used today. As the Commanding General of the JFK Special Warfare Center, he established the original requirement for Aviation and Tiltrotor Support of Special Operations Forces and helped organize the Delta Force and Special Operation Aviation.

As Assistant Division Commander, and later as Commanding General of the 101st Air Assault Division, Lieutenant General Mackmull designed and implemented the Combat Aviation Management System, several FM's on Air Assault Operations, and preselected aviation battle drills. While at Ft. Campbell, he organized Task Force 160, a major innovation.

In 1982, Lieutenant General Mackmull chaired the Tactical Employment Committee at the Army Aviation Review. This committee's actions led to the establishment of the Army Aviation Branch and recognition of the requirement for the helicopter-air-to-air combat. He completed his career as Commanding General, XVIII Airborne Corps.

This highly decorated and respected Combat Infantryman, Special Forces Officer, and Master Parachutist has been called "Mr. Aviation" by the Chief of Staff and FORSCOM and TRADOC commanders. He considered his greatest award to be Master Army Aviator.

After Jack's retirement in June 1983, he continued his association with the Army by acting as a consultant on Army, Special Operations Forces, and computerized Command and Control Systems.

Jack always made time (when not overseas) for his children while they were growing up: school, work, Boy Scouts, hunting, fishing, swim team instructor, basketball, baseball, and golf. He was a loving and devoted father and had the patience of Job.

Jack called Charleston, SC, his home for ten years after retirement. In 1995, Jack and Bev moved to the Indian River Colony Club (IRCC) retirement community in Melbourne, FL. Jack was active in IRCC, serving a term on the Board of Directors. While on the Board, Jack served as Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee. He also managed the development and installation of the fitness center and was actively involved in the IRCC chapel. After a round of golf (every week) Jack was a fountain of fascinating stories with his "beer group" (he was usually the main character, but not necessarily the hero of his stories).

Jack was in ill health the last few years of his life but always maintained a positive attitude and kept his wonderful sense of humor. He died Apr 3, 2011, and was buried at West Point. Jack was a teacher, a leader and a great friend. He loved God, was devoted to his family, and was proud to be a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and a member of the Long Gray Line.

- Beverly Mackmull

James E. Lynch

NO. 17462  •  1 Apr 1928– 16 Aug 2003

Died in Oftersheim, Germany
Interred in West Point Post Cemetery, West Point, NY

 

James Edward Lynch was born in Peabody, MA, to William, who had served in both world wars, and Mary Lynch. Perhaps because of his father's background, Jim seemed to be preparing for West Point and Army life even before he entered elementary school. According to his older sisters, Marie and Eileen, Jim was often seen marching up and down their driveway wearing their father’s WWI Army cap with a toy rifle on his shoulder. As he advanced in school, studies came easily, leaving him time for athletics and other activities. During the summers, Jim worked for the local water department, where the engineer became his mentor.

During his senior year in high school, Jim went to Washington to see his congressman, George Bates, about an appointment to West Point. Jim attended Millard Prep School in Washington, DC, and entered West Point on 1 Jul 1946 with the Class of '50. Jim had no difficulty with academics and, in Plebe year, played hockey and sang in the Catholic choir. During Yearling year, he joined the weight lifting, camera, and German dubs and directed the Catholic choir. Jim continued his participation in cadet activities for the remaining two years, continued to excel in academics, graduated in the top fifth of the class, and was commissioned in the Corps of Engineers.

During graduation leave, Jim and some other classmates toured London and Paris before their leaves were cut short to send them to Korea, where Jim was assigned as a platoon leader and, later, company commander with the 3rd Engineer Combat Battalion, 24th Infantry Division. Jim served with great distinction for 20 months, having supported the division in several battles, for which he received two Bronze Stars, an Air Medal, and a Commendation Medal. Jim’s next assignments were at Ft. Belvoir, VA, as a company commander at the Leaders Course; the Engineer District in New England; Princeton University for a master's degree in civil engineering; aide to LTG Uncles, VII Corps commander; instructor of military science and tactics at the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn; and aide to LTG Walter Wilson, Chief of Engineers. Attendance at Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth followed.

Jim’s next assignment was in Viet Nam in the construction division of the Military Assistance Command headquarters located in the Victoria Hotel in Saigon. On Jim’s 38th birthday, the headquarters was bombed, and Jim was injured and awarded the Purple Heart. For his work in that assignment, he was awarded his first Legion of Merit. During 1967-68, he served with an engineer support team for NASA and, in 1969, with an Engineer Base Development Team in Korea. On his second tour in Viet Nam, he commanded the 554th Engineer Construction Battalion, earning another Legion of Merit and Bronze Star. He was next assigned as a student at the Army War College. After graduation, he went to Viet Nam for the third time as a senior advisor to the Vietnamese. He served during 1971-75 at USAREUR Headquarters and, from 1975 until his retirement in 1980, was the commander of the Labor Service Command in Heidelberg, where he spent the rest of his life. Upon retirement, he was awarded his third Legion of Merit.

Although Jim retired from the Army in 1980 after 30 years of distinguished service, he continued to serve. For many years after retirement, Jim was a volunteer at the Heidelberg base hospital, where he assisted Army retirees in health matters. He coordinated hospital care for retirees and their families and for years was an active member of the retired community. In the early 1990s, Jim suffered a severe allergic reaction to prescribed medicine, resulting in six months in hospitals, including three at Walter Reed, followed by five years of medication. Upon regaining his health, he was asked by the Heidelberg hospital commander to be his representative on the consumer health committee. This position gave Jim a greater opportunity to serve retirees, and he used that position to advance their cause.

Jim brought life and enthusiasm to his work, and although he appeared quiet and unassuming, he had quite a sense of humor. In the Class of '50 40 Year Book, Jim reported that, because of his ancestry, he has been an Irish citizen since birth and had certain benefits due to his Irish passport, writing, "So now I sign myself Jim Lynch of Heidelberg, Germany, and Kilrush, Ireland." In the 50 Year Book, as a life long bachelor, Jim commented that, although most classmates were reporting about their grandchildren and maybe even great grandchildren, Jim noted, "I can report no runs, no hits, and no errors."

After an illness of a few days, Jim died in his sleep at his home. A memorial service was held for him on 28 Aug 2003 at the Nachrichten Kaserne chapel. The true measure of a man is how others regard him. COL Don Daniels, deputy commander for clinical services, said Jim "was an icon at the hospital. He was well liked by everyone, was present at every ceremony and event at the hospital. He especially liked to attend our soldier events. COL Lynch will be greatly missed." Another friend noted Jim’s devotion to his church and regular attendance at the local U.S. Army Mark Twain Village Catholic parish. Others who knew him were equally lavish in praise of Jim and counted him as a friend.

Jim, you are a true son of West Point. You have carried the banner of "Duty, Honor, Country" as nobly and as completely as any graduate. We will miss you dearly.

- Classmate Louis Genuario

Melville J. Lougheed

NO. 17981  •  28 Dec 1928 – 21 Jun 2003

Died in Dallas, TX
Interred in Restland Cemetery, Dallas, TX

 

Melville John Lougheed, known as "Jack,” was born in Jamestown, ND, to Melville John and Johanna Middelman Lougheed. Jack's mother was from the Netherlands, having immigrated to the United States with her mother, four sisters, and two brothers. They had come to North Dakota to take advantage of land offered by the state government. Jack's father met Johanna in Jamestown, and that is where they were married. On the occasion of Jack's birth, a relative remarked how proud they were to have a son born in the United States.

Jack lived in Jamestown and attended the public schools there until 14 Jun 1945, when he enlisted in the Army Specialized Training Program and reported for duty at South Dakota State College. He subsequently sought and received an appointment to West Point from Senator Milton Young. In December of 1945, Jack was called to active duty and ordered to report to Ft. Snelling, MN. Afterwards, he spent several months at Amherst College, Amherst, MA, attending the Academy preparatory training conducted there. In March 1946 he reported for duty at Ft. Benning, GA, but was discharged from the Army on 25 Jun 1946, just prior to reporting as a new cadet at West Point on 1 Jul 1946 as a member of the Class of 1950.

Jack,s familiarity with the military helped him take cadet life in stride. A true son of the West, he was known to his classmates as someone who was always ready to extol the virtues of North Dakota and his hometown of Jamestown. His fellow cadets also regarded him as a level headed and self assured cadet who would go on to make a fine officer. During his cadet years, Jack earned the Expert Rifleman Badge and participated in the Camera Club and Model Railroad Club activities which reflected his boyhood experiences on the prairie.

At graduation, Jack was commissioned in the Infantry, and his first duty station was at Ft. Ord, CA. In 1952, he was sent to Korea, where he served with the 15th Infantry and the 19th Infantry of the Eighth Army. In Korea, Jack braved enemy fire while leading a platoon in an attempt to recover the bodies of two fallen comrades. As his platoon approached the bodies, small arms fire was concentrated on them. Exposing himself to this fire, Jack led an assault against the entrenched enemy force. Only when their ammunition was exhausted did he give the order to fall back. For these actions, he received the Silver Star, and as the citation that accompanied the medal reads, "he supervised this move with such calmness and confidence that he effected an orderly withdrawal through heavy artillery and mortar fire with a minimum of casualties.' For his outstanding combat service in the Korean War, Jack was awarded not only the Silver Star, but also the Purple Heart and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Jack's assignments after Korea included service in Japan; Camp Atterbury IN; and Camp Carson, CO. In January 1954, Jack married his first wife, Clara M. Van Arsdall, at Camp Atterbury. Three sons and a daughter were born to Clara and Jack before their marriage eventually ended in divorce. In July of 1954, after serving as a company commander with the 24th Infantry Division, 21st Regiment, in Honshu, Japan, Jack resigned his commission as a first lieutenant.

During his civilian career, Jack held several positions with industry, including one with managerial responsibilities with the St. Regis Corporation in 1967. Subsequently, in 1972, he accepted a position in Dallas, TX, with the United States Government in the Department of Housing and Urban Development. For HUD, Jack specialized in home inspections and home appraisals. He retired from this career in 1991.

In 1975, Jack married his second wife, Dorothy Mebane Earle. Following his retirement, they enjoyed a lifestyle in which travel played a large part. They took several trips overseas and many trips stateside, visiting New England and other places, including a visit to Jack's hometown of Jamestown to celebrate its centennial. Their global travels included visits to China (where they walked the Great Wall), Germany, Italy, Scotland, and France. His children, all of whom lived close to Jack and Dorothy, also helped make their life in retirement even more enjoyable.

The regard Jack had for his West Point classmates was clearly evidenced in his submissions to the Class of '50 10 Year Book. These entries stressed that he and Dorothy would gladly welcome any classmates to stop and visit with the Lougheeds in Dallas. Unfortunately, this idyllic existence came to an end in 2003. As a result of heart failure, death came for Jack on 21 Jun 2003. Dorothy passed away about a year later.

Jack is survived by three sons, two daughters, seven grandchildren, and one great grandchild. He will be remembered as a wonderful and loving parent, grandparent, and great grandparent who, as a loyal son of West Point, also served his country well in time of war.

Roger C. Lind

NO. 17609  •  22 Nov1926-26 Mar 2007

Died in Missoula, MT
Interred in Greenwood Cemetery, Park Rapids, MN


Roger Charles Lind was born in Park Rapids, MN, on 22 Nov 1926 to Charles T. and Grace T. Lind. He had one brother, James F. Lind. In Park Rapids, Roger became an avid sportsman, participating in local sports and learning to hunt and fish. After graduat-ing from high school in 1944, Roger joined the Army as a private. He was awarded the Victory and Good Conduct Medals. From June 1944 to March 1946, he attended South Dakota State College, Cornell University, and Amherst College.

In 1946, Roger was appointed to West Point by Congressman Harold Knudson of Minnesota. While there, he participated in hockey and football, as well as the choir and the Spanish, Glee, and Ski Clubs. Roger stud-ied civil engineering and obtained his bach-elor of science degree in 1950. After gradua-tion, he was assigned to Battery C of the Field Artillery group, 82d Airborne Division, at Ft. Bragg, NC.

There Roger met Mary George Cline of Atl anta, GA, a Red Cross social worker, and they married in December 1951. In June 1952, Roger sustained permanent damage to his left knee in an athletic accident at Ft. Bragg. This injury would plague him the rest of his life. After the injury, he was assigned to the IG section of the 82d Airborne Division in October 1952. Their first child, Roger C. "Chip" Lind, Jr., was born in 1953 at Ft. Bragg. RogerÕs knee injury led to his resigna-tion from the Army as a 1st lieutenant in 1954 to further his career in civil engineering.

Roger then moved his family to Atlanta, where he attended the Georgia Institute of Technology and specialized in geotechnical engineering. He earned his Master of Science degree in civil engineering in 1956. After grad-uation, Roger moved his family to Houston, where he joined McClelland Engineers, Inc. He and Mary were then blessed with their second child, Teresa Howard Lind. In 1959, his employer moved him to New Orleans to open a branch office. Their third child, Jack Cline Lind, was born there in 1960.

In 1961, Roger moved his family again, to Jackson, MS, where he started Ware Lind Engineers, Inc. with Georgia Tech classmate Edwin Ware. Their firm specialized in geo-technical engineering, providing engineering services to the Southern states. Roger's fourth child, James F. "Marty" Lind II, was born in Mississippi in 1963. Roger continued his engineering career in Jackson until his even-tual retirement in 1988. During his career, he engineered numerous buildings, roads and bridges, dams, and other structures. He became well known and respected for his ca-pabilities. Roger served as President for Ware Lind Engineers, President of the Mississippi Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers, and President of the Mississippi Engineering Society.

Roger's roots in Park Rapids were very im-portant to him. He often returned there on vacation with his family, visiting his parents and friends and enjoying the "Great North Woods." Roger's father had taught him to en-joy and respect the outdoors, a trait he would share and pass on to his family. He spent many days fishing, hunting and camping with family and friends from Minnesota to Mississippi to Alaska. Roger was a true out-doorsman and knew how to enjoy the won-ders of God Ôs creations.

In the 1970s, Roger had an authentic log cabin built on several acres of land outside of Park Rapids. The logs were cut directly off the land and the rocks for the fireplace were obtained from nearby lakes. His plan was to spend part of the year at this cabin after re-tirement. Over the years, this cabin became a focal point for family gatherings, a location for friends to visit, and the starting point for fishing and hunting expeditions to Canada.

As a result of a medical condition Mary had, Roger retired in 1988. The two of them then traveled, visiting friends and family while living in Jackson and Park Rapids. As Mary's condition worsened, Roger built a new home in Tampa, FL. He moved Mary there to be close to their daughter. In 1999, while in Tampa, Mary passed away. She was buried in Park Rapids, MN.

Roger remained in Tampa and became reacquainted with Lynne Ries of Hamilton, MT, whom both Roger and Mary had known in Jackson. They spent time together remembering their spouses and the time they all had spent together in Jackson. Roger and Lynne realized they had a lot in common and much to share, so they eventually married. Roger moved to Montana, and he and Lynne purchased a small ranch in Stevensville to raise Arabian horses ... a passion of Roger's for many years. This ranch was nestled in the Bitterroot Valley looking onto the Bitterroot Mountains. Roger spent the remainder of his life there with Lynne, raising and enjoy-ing his horses, sharing stories with family and friends, and expanding his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Roger devoted his entire life to the Lord and to his belief and faith in his savior Jesus Christ. He spent many hours teaching Sunday school, attending church, and reading his bi-ble. He was very open and sincere about his religious beliefs and willing to share his faith with anyone who would listen to him. Roger passed away on 26 Mar 2007 in Missoula, MT, after a long bout with diabe-tes-related problems. His body was interred at Greenwood Cemetery in Park Rapids along-side his first wife, Mary.

Roger left behind his wife Lynne and children: Dr. Roger C. "Chip" Lind, Jr. of Tennessee, Teresa L. Davis of Florida, Jack C. Lind of Texas, James F. "Marry" Lind II of Mississippi, and Mary Lind-Horwitz of Montana, as well as Lynne's children: Ron Ries of Wisconsin and Mark Ries of Montana. He also left behind ten grandchil-dren and two great-grandchildren. Although he has departed this life, he has rejoined his deceased friends and family, including two grandsons, Conner Lind and Tyler Lind.

Roger and his stories and poems will be missed around the campfire but never forgotten!

- Jack C. Lind, son

George E. Lear

NO. 17472  •  17 July 1927 – 15 November 2000

Died in Silver Spring, MD 
Interred in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA


When we lost George Emory Lear, we lost one of the bravest men to ever live. After a grueling nine‑month battle, he succumbed to cancer. He left behind three distinguished careers: as a military officer, a nuclear engineer, and a sailor.

George was born and raised in Weirton, WV. He graduated from Weir High School in 1945 and attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute for a year before entering West Point in 1946. He was an impressive flanker in M‑2 Company, and a member of the Cadet Chapel Choir, the Pistol and Ski Clubs, from which he would later make a big jump to sailing.

As a cadet, he worked hard, always was prepared for the next day's lesson, and then turned to help others. These qualities, combined with his intelligence, made him an outstanding officer. His academic achievements are memorable: a bachelor of science from the Academy; a master's in civil and nuclear engineering from Northwestern University; a second master's in nuclear engineering from Catholic University of America; and certification as a professional engineer. He leaves behind many technical publications on nuclear reactors and radioactive waste management.

George's military career took him from combat engineer platoon leader in support of the 7th Infantry and 1st Marine Divisions (1950‑51) in the Korean War to engineer company commander, tactical officer at Engineer OCS, duty on the USAREUR Engineer Division staff, and CGSC. As he rose in seniority, he served in the Office of the Chief of Engineers as a project officer in the Nuclear Power Division, designing and building a nuclear power plant for an isolated post in the Alaskan wilderness. For that, he received the Meritorious Service Medal. Next, he served as the plans officer, Engineer Section, Eighth Army, Korea, followed by a tour at West Point as an associate professor of mathematics.

After further service with the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), George retired as a colonel and continued a civilian career with the AEC, which was redesignated the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). With the NRC, he joined the Senior Executive Service, working on commercial nuclear reactors and radioactive waste disposal problems. He became a director for licensing, construction, and operation of commercial nuclear power plants, requiring expertise in nuclear power plant design, supervision of reactor operation, monitoring of environmental concerns, and the hydrologic and geotechnical aspects of plant sites. Upon his second retirement, he became a consultant to the World Bank, working with the Chinese National Nuclear Corporation on control of radioactive waste from peacetime nuclear facilities.

George's 25 years of sailing were equally impressive. He raced sailboats competitively with his wife Mary Ellen and with midshipmen of the Naval Academy. He and Mary Ellen also spent many happy days cruising the Chesapeake Bay. They purchased their last boat, Souffle, shortly before George was diagnosed with his terminal illness. While fighting cancer, he spent his time looking forward to the day when he could again pack his golf clubs and tennis racket on the boat and sail away with Mary Ellen to another adventure.

His other activities include volunteering as coach at the Naval Academy for 22 years and teaching midshipmen how to sail. While there, he served as a safety officer and officer in charge on the Naval Academy yacht's racing in ocean competition, including many Annapolis‑to‑Bermuda races, for which he received numerous awards. As a volunteer, he taught piloting and celestial navigation for the Naval Academy Sailing Squadron and for his own company, Lear Enterprises. In addition, George earned his Coast Guard 100‑ton captain’s license on inland waters.

His most recent contribution was as chairman of the West Point Sailing Foundation. George was a dedicated supporter of cadet sailing at West Point, generously giving his time and resources to develop a competitive Army sailing team. In his memory, the foundation annually presents the George E. Lear Outstanding Cadet Competitive Sailing Award to a member of the Army sailing team.

George's other hobbies included studying French, which brought him great satisfaction; playing golf, which gave him great challenges; and playing tennis, which brought him many competitive hours of pleasure. He was a man who always was reading, studying, and actively pursuing new challenges.

One of his challenges, in later years, was serving on the board of directors of the Planned Lifetime Assistance Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the support of the handicapped. He worked diligently for that cause. In addition, he was the Vindo Sailing Club commodore of Chesapeake Bay, Spring Cove Yacht Club director, member of the Southern Maryland Sailing Association, and a member of the board of the Annapolis Naval Sailing Association.

He also was a member of the Sigma Xi Research Society, a leadership donor to the Bicentennial Campaign for West Point, a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, the American Nuclear Society Silver Certificate, Baltimore‑Washington Health Physics Society, the Cullum Society, the U.S. Naval Institute, the Institute of Navigation, the National Society of Professional Engineers, and the Military Order of the Caribou.

Survivors include his wife Mary Ellen Shepherd Lear; four daughters from a previous marriage: Amy, Mary, Georgianna, and Dorthy Lear; two stepdaughters: Beth and Heather Scharf; and four grandchildren. He dearly loved his family and, shortly before his death, said of them, "All the women are beautiful, the men handsome, and the grandchildren above average."

George loved West Point. Later in his life, when he sang the "Alma Mater," he did so standing a bit taller, chest extended a bit further, and chin up a little higher. "And when our work is done, our course is run, may it be said, 'Well done. Be thou at peace.' "

His wife, Bill Davis, and Frank King

Melvin H. Johnsrud

NO. 17538 •  1 Oct 1924 - 8 Aug 2007

Died in Falls Church, VA
Interred in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN

In his military career, Melvin Henry Johnsrud always seemed to be moving on to bigger things. As an Infantry rifleman during World War II, he fought across France into Germany; as an Artilleryman during the Korean War, he commanded a battery of the Army’s largest caliber howitzers; and as a group commander during the Cold War, he held responsibilities for the Army’s most powerful weapons in a Theater Army Support Group deployed along a long sector of the Iron Curtain. Yet, for all the destructive capacity that was entrusted to him, he always remained gentle, thoughtful, and caring.

Mel was born on 1 Oct 1924, in Minneapolis, MN, to Martin and Johanna Johnsrud, both of whom came to America from Norway in 1915, met here, and married. Mel was the second of three sons. The others were Bernard, Class of ’45, and Sherman.

Born into a railroad family, Mel traveled extensively during his youth. He visited the Chicago, San Francisco, and New York World Fairs, several national parks, and the Canadian Rockies. Mel was ever appreciative of Army travel opportunities, and during retirement he seemed to be always on the road, averaging three trips a month through airline/hotel travel memberships.

Immediately after graduating from North High in Minneapolis, Mel enlisted. Assigned to the Army Specialized Training Program (ASTP), he attended the University of Nebraska and St. Louis University. When the planning for the invasion of Europe revealed the need for more manpower, ASTP students quickly transitioned into the Infantry. Just prior to his departure, Mel had taken competitive exams for the service academies, but he was not aware he had won appointments to West Point and Annapolis until he found himself in Germany.

Mel entered the Military Academy with the Class of 1949 but graduated with the Class of 1950. Upon graduation, he chose the Field Artillery and took airborne training. During the Korean War, he was assigned to the 780th FA Battalion in X Corps. His 8-inch battery also included a self-propelled howitzer that roamed from the Korean Punchbowl eastward to the coast, providing direct fire against bunkers and caves from hills along the front. After returning stateside, he was assigned as assistant professor of military science at Harvard, where he met colleagues who became national security advisors during the Kennedy administration.

Adding to Mel’s academic laurels was graduation from Georgia Tech as an MSEE and subsequent assignment to the Defense Atomic Support Agency in the Pentagon. There, Mel established and became secretary for a committee of AEC and DOD scientists assessing the vulnerability of nuclear weapons in all environments. This experience led to later nuclear weapons assignments with NATO forces and Theater Army Support Command in Germany; as Chief of the Nuclear Branch, J-5, JCS; and as a Director in the Defense Nuclear Agency in Washington.

Between these assignments, Mel served with the 11th Airborne Division and later with the 82d Airborne as battalion commander of troops at Ft. Bragg and in the Dominican Republic during the crisis there. He qualified for the Senior Parachutist Badge. His awards also include the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, Bronze Star Medal with “V” for Valor and three oak leaf clusters, and several campaign and service medals.

In 1975, Mel established his residence in Alexandria, VA, and he retired from the Army as a colonel in 1979. After retirement, he was employed by BDM Corporation for six years as special assistant to Dr. Joseph V. Braddock, one of BDM’s founders.

Before his Army retirement, Mel was a victim of an automobile accident near Worms, Germany, while on official business. Two vertebrae were crushed. He recovered from this accident; however, after a heart attack in November 1993, he was in the hospital and convalescent homes until June 1994. These medical difficulties severely reduced Mel’s mobility and travels, but he still managed occasional flights to visit relatives and friends in the United States and Europe.

Mel always had many friends and places to visit, and he reciprocated with legendary hospitality. For example, while at Carlisle, he helped to host a buffet for 250 guests in his BOQ, which had been a mansion before the post was established. Mel prepared much of the fare himself and became known among friends as a formidable chef with an international repertoire of menus. In fact, Mel’s prowess as a cook may have thwarted his relationships with girlfriends (there were many), as they probably did not look forward to competition in the kitchen. Perhaps because of his culinary skills and his penchant for travel and assignments in remote places, he never married, but he was always available to escort visiting unattached femmes.

Mel’s life and career were quite different from those of most USMA graduates. Nonetheless, he gave long and faithful service in living the Academy motto of “Duty, Honor, Country.” The Class of 1950 is proud to join his family and friends in proclaiming, “Well done, Mel. Be thou at peace!”

—His brothers

Allen B. Jennings

NO. 17463  •  5 Aug 1928 – 13 Oct 2001

Died in San Antonio, TX
Interred in Ft Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, TX


It is in San Antonio, TX, that many of Allen Burke Jennings’ major lifetime achievements occurred. He was born, graduated from high school, married, worked, retired, died, and is buried there.

LT Thomas Jennings '24 and his wife Genevieve welcomed their only child, Allen (Al), at Ft. Sam Houston. Being an active duty pre WWII military family, the Jenningses traveled extensively. On 7 Dec 1941 the Jennings family was on Oahu during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The attack left a lasting impression on the young Al. Later in life, he was occasionally asked to give speeches about his experiences on that fateful day. He enjoyed recalling that attack experience and the Hawaiian lifestyle of the late 1930s and the early 1940s.

By the mid 1940s, the Jennings family was back in San Antonio, where Al graduated from Central High School in 1945. A year of preparation to enter West Point was followed by his admission as a cadet in July 1946.

As a cadet, Al participated in many activities, including riding, fencing, debating and reporting. Nevertheless, he always found time to help a classmate with a problem. It may have been his experiences with the debate council that left him with a strong lifetime desire to win others over to his line of thinking. A quote about him in the Howitzer emphasizes this point: 'Al talked his way through four years at the Academy without the loss of a single battle or skirmish."

Upon graduation, Al followed in his father's footsteps and accepted his commission in the Field Artillery. After a tour in the 519th Field Artillery Battalion in Germany, he attended the battery officer’s course at Ft. Sill. There he remained as a teacher for over two years. It was while stationed there that he met the girl of his dreams, Mary Heacock, on a blind date. He married her in San Antonio on 20 Feb 1956. That was where Mary’s father, William Heacock '25, and mother, along with Al's parents, had retired. In the fall of 1956, Al was selected to join the faculty at West Point. En route to the Academy he earned master's degrees (public administration and history) from Harvard. At the Academy, he taught history, mainly Russian history. This teaching experience re invigorated his zest for history, especially that of tsarist Russia. In retirement he was almost certain to visit any museum in the United States that was displaying tsarist memorabilia or holding lectures on Russian history.

In the 1960s his assignments paralleled those of many of his classmates. He attended the Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth, had a tour in Viet Nam during the early buildup days, and commanded a battalion of the 83rd Field Artillery in Germany.

The highlight of his military duties in the 1970s was being the defense and Army attache in Brussels, Belgium. This afforded Al, Mary, and daughter Katherine the opportunity to study and travel in the Europe they loved so much. Following that extremely satisfying tour, it was back to San Antonio for a short, final active duty assignment as the deputy commander of VlI Readiness Region.

Retiring in San Antonio was like going back to Jennings’ roots; San Antonio was home. Al retired in 1978 and joined Mary in real estate. He became a licensed broker who spent six years teaching mathematics investments and financing to real estate agents and brokers. The collapse of the Texas real estate market aided his decision to retire from the real estate industry.

Full retirement didn’t mean doing nothing. He and Mary, until her death in December 1990, traveled extensively throughout Texas on numerous short trips. Of course, Al continued to play golf whenever possible, but his real passion became collecting distinctive unit insignia. Before WWII they were known as regimental insignia, regimental crests, or unit crests. Al had an outstanding collection of approximately 8,400 pieces, not counting the many duplicates he traded. He was lucky to have had a large enough house to keep his entire collection on display at one time. Family pictures and paintings were frequently adjusted to permit the expansion of an impressive collection that grew and improved exponentially. He traveled to various shows all over the country to find additional pieces to add to his collection, but really he traveled to visit with all the great friends, both new and old, who had the same passion for insignia.

Unfortunately, Al's collecting efforts came to an abrupt halt when he died unexpectedly on 13 Oct 2001. His terminal illness had lasted just over two weeks. He was buried with his beloved wife Mary, and nearby are the graves of both his and his wife's parents. Since Al and Mary began their lives in San Antonio and spent more time there than in any other place, it is fitting that their lives ended there. Although they both were 'Army brats' and spent a great portion of their lives in various places, they always considered San Antonio home.

He leaves his beloved daughter, Katherine Tix, and her husband Jeff of Sugar Land, TX.

Another graduate has joined the Long Gray Line. Well done, Al. Be thou at peace.

- His loving family and friends.

Richard L. Hunt

NO. 17452  •  11 May 1927 - 23 Apr 2004

Died in Edmond, OK
Inurned in Memorial Park Cemetery, Oklahoma City, OK


RICHARD LEE HUNT was born in Walters, OK, the third son of Adam Love Hunt and Mellie Lyon Hunt. He was predeceased by his brothers Adam Love Hunt, Jr., and James Birch Hunt.

In 1946, Dick graduated from Oklahoma Military Academy and entered West Point. An excellent horseman determined to earn his letter on the Army polo team, he made it onto the team that fall. His was no mean accomplishment, because a polo team consists of only three men, and few plebes were able to join the squad. His achievement permitted Dick to leave the company mess hall tables and bask in the freedom of the Corps Squad polo table. His pleasure didn’t last long, however; Army dropped polo as a varsity sport that same fall and sold all the horses, sending Dick back to the welcoming arms of the company for his meals!

At graduation, Dick chose the Corps of Engineers and, immediately after graduating, married Marilyn Rutter, his sweetheart during all four cadet years, at the Cadet Chapel. As did many of our classmates, Dick then departed for Korea, where he commanded an engineer combat platoon and later served as the assistant S 3 for an engineer combat battalion.
When Dick came back home in 1952, he and Marilyn began married life at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO. They lived in an old house trailer there while Dick commanded a company. Later in their tour, Marilyn remembers, the quarters situation improved they moved into a converted World War II barracks with a coal furnace!

In 1953, Dick was assigned to Tinker AFB in Oklahoma before being sent to the University of Illinois to earn a master of science degree in structural dynamics. For the next two years, Dick was assigned to the Waterways Experiment Station in Vicksburg, MS. Later, the family moved to Germany, where Dick commanded an engineer (heavy) construction company and then served as plans officer for the 7th Engineer Brigade at Rhein Main AFB. In 1961, Dick and Marilyn returned to the States while Dick attended Command and General Staff College.

In 1962, Dick was assigned to the Tactical Department at West Point as a company tactical officer and then brigade S-1 before attending the Armed Forces Staff College in 1965. In February 1966, Dick went to Thailand to command the 809th Engineer Construction Battalion.

A tour in the Pentagon followed, but the joys of working in the Pentagon were cut short in 1968 when Dick was selected to attend the Army War College; a year later, however, he was back as chief of public affairs in the office of the Chief of Engineers. Two years later, Dick was appointed district engineer in New Orleans. In 1973, during his tenure, the lower Mississippi was hit by record setting floods. Dick’s sound leadership was instrumental in the successful control of the flooding.

In 1974, Dick was appointed lieutenant governor of the Panama Canal Zone and vice president of the Panama Canal Company. The four year tour was rewarding but frustrating, occurring as the United States was turning over the zone to the Republic of Panama. Dick retired in 1978.

After retiring, Dick and Marilyn returned to Oklahoma City where Dick worked as a vice president for an architectural and engineering company. In 1981, Dick left the corporate world to devote his time and energy to care for elderly relatives. Additionally, he joined the New Covenant Christian Church in Oklahoma City and soon became the church treasurer. Dick’s engineering skills were invaluable as the church underwent a major building program under Dick’s supervision. His dedicated work with the New Covenant Christian Church was only exceeded by his generosity he was truly the rock on which this Oklahoma City church was based.

On 23 Apr 2004, Dick died after a long battle with cancer. He is survived by his beloved wife Marilyn; his daughter, Sherry Cox, and her husband Bill; his daughter, Sue Perry, and her husband Bill; his son Steve '77 and his wife Elizabeth; and seven grandchildren.

Dick’s decorations included the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak leaf dusters, the Army Commendation Medal with two oak leaf dusters, and the Coast Guard Commendation Medal. He was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Society of American Military Engineers. He was a Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Oklahoma.

LTG (Retired) John W. Morris, Jun '43, director of civil works in the Office of the Chief of Engineers during the flooding in the lower Mississippi in 1973 said:

“I knew Dick Hunt quite well and he was a fine engineer and soldier. He was the district engineer at New Orleans during the major flood that tested the control system around the lower Mississippi and New Orleans. LTG Fred Clarke, the chief of Engineers, and I visited him during the emergency. Dick had this major crisis well in hand. The projected water levels required him to make the decision to open the diversion channels upstream for the first time in decades and it was a good thing he did. All who heard this briefing and saw his decisiveness were happy he was the man in control. His fine performance in New Orleans landed him the noteworthy and prized assignment as lieutenant governor of the Panama Canal Company, where his performance lived up to all expectations. I can say without reservation that Dick Hunt was a standout among a great group of Army officers and as an engineer in particular.”

Dick Hunt’s dedication to his country and the Army throughout a lifetime of distinguished service was matched only by his devotion to his family and his church. He lived his life by the West Point motto: "Duty, Honor, Country." Duty was his watchword. We won’t see his like again.

- MJH

James R. Hufnagel

NO. 17406  •  30 April 1927 – 30 June 2000

Died in New York, NY
Interred in Ferncliff Cemetery, Hartsdale, NY


James Raymond Hufnagel was born the third of four sons to Edward K. and Nell Torbert Hufnagel, descendants of early Murphysboro settlers, Catholic Germans who came from North Rhine Westphalia, to Murphysboro, IL. Jim attended St. Andrews Roman Catholic School, taught by nuns, and the Murphysboro Township High School, graduating at the head of the class. He was an altar boy at St. Andrews Church and also worked hard riding his bicycle to distribute newspapers. One day, he built a rocket and managed to launch it through the school window. It landed on the roof of the building across the street, prompting the arrival of the town firemen.

In May 1945, Jim enlisted in the Navy, following the example of his older brothers, William E. and Eugene Hufnagel, already serving on the Navy destroyers USS Cole DD 155, and USS Braine DD630. Jim earned a Congressional appointment to USNA at Annapolis, MD; however, during the admission medical examination he was found to be nearsighted and was rejected. Desperately hoping to correct the condition, he started all sorts of eye exercises and was sent to boot camp at the Naval Training Center in Great Lakes, IL He then served on the USS Reino Mercedes and at USNTC Bainbridge, MD.

In November 1945, the Navy sent him to Union College in Schenectady, NY, but in early 1946 he earned another Congressional appointment, but this time to West Point. As a cadet, Jim wore the gold stars for his academic excellence and was known to be quiet yet always was available to help his classmates with their studies. He was an avid chess player and a member of the Chess Club, the Model Railroad Club, and the Russian Club.

After graduation, Jim joined the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment at Ft. Meade and, in September 1950, received orders to the Far East Command. He reported in October to Camp Stoneman, CA, and, several weeks later, sailed to Korea. Before Thanksgiving, he arrived at Inchon. On arrival, together with several classmates, he was assigned to the 72d Tank Battalion, 2d Infantry Division. During 1950‑51, Jim served in the Korean War with that group, initially as a platoon leader in Company B. In April 1951, he was wounded in action at Sangjnunjon, when his lead tank exploded under a direct hit. Jim passed out, regained consciousness on an operating table under the starlit sky at a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital unit, and eventually was evacuated to Japan, where he was hospitalized untiI June 1951. He did return to his battalion, received the temporary grade of first lieutenant in July 1951, and was a platoon leader in Company A and a staff officer in battalion headquarters.

At the very end of 1951, he returned to the States with a Purple Heart, a Distinguished Unit Citation, two Overseas Bars, a Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, and the National Defense, United Nations, and Korean Service Medals. In June 1952, Jim completed the Armored School Associate Company Officer Course and then completed the Engineer School Associate Company Officer Course. In June 1953, Jim was promoted to first lieutenant and, in July that same year, became eligible for duty as an instructor in the Department of Mathematics at the Point. Jim chose not to follow that lead, however, for he had set his mind to pursue a civil engineering career.

In February 1952, Jim married Norma Bratti of Bronxville, NY, and ten months later, daughter Nancy was born in New York City.

Although their union ended in divorce 14 years later, Jim never remarried and remained fully devoted to his beloved daughter for the rest of his life.

On 19 Mar 1954, Jim resigned from the Army. He started working for Strobel and Rongved, an engineering firm in New York and enrolled in a correspondence course with the University of Wisconsin, studying reinforced concrete design. Jim became a member of the American Concrete Institute in 1956 and earned a master's in structural engineering from Columbia University in 1957. He became a registered professional engineer in New York State in 1958 and, later, registered in New Jersey, Massachusetts, and DC. In 1960, he became a member of American Society of Civil Engineers. Jim designed a variety of structures during 1955‑60: the 150‑foot control tower at Newark Airport; aircraft hangars for the Navy and the Corps of Engineers; cement plants in Florida and Canada; and the capitol power plant renovation in DC. He was the project manager for the new IBM typewriters manufacturing plant that occupied a 290 acre site in Lexington, KY. The structure was described in one engineering publication as "concrete meets all challenges on complex building project."

During 1960‑66, Jim managed his own consulting engineering firm on Park Avenue in Manhattan. He designed the 13‑story Beekman Plaza and the 17‑story Polyclinic apartments in Manhattan; the garage for Kips Bay houses; and the Institute for Basic Research in Mental Retardation on Staten Island, which the Portland Cement Association described in 1966 as an "outstanding design of concrete." Jim closed the office in 1966 and started working for other consulting firms as well as taking on private contracts. Jim Hufnagel's design work was as prolific as ever until he retired in 1993.

Jim lived by himself for more than 30 years in Manhattan’s London Terrace in Chelsea, among his structural engineering and military history books, maps, and classical music. He loved Manhattan with a blind passion, always discovering the hidden poetry of that island. He loved the old trees of Central Park. He also played chess and was a member of Marshall Chess Club. In retirement, as an intellectual exercise, he studied German and was reading, in German, the Bible and Guderian's "Memories of a Soldier."

Annually since 1997, he traveled to Bavaria with his old friend Mariana von Dobeneck to the land of her late husband and his close friend, Klaus. All three were civil engineers and their personal and professional friendship lasted decades. In July 1999, Jim had a heart attack and underwent emergency surgery that offered a slim chance of survival. He fought bravely and serenely for eleven months but never returned home. Thoughts of his class came back to him in these days, and he would have loved attending the 50th Reunion. He enjoyed the get‑well wishes from his classmate John E. Wagner and, in mid‑June, received a long letter from his classmate Volney E Warner, who described the reunion. Jim was extremely happy. He looked at that letter for a very long time, with tears in his eyes, and then asked Mariana to read it again.

Jim Hufiiagel was a brilliant man of impeccable character and extreme sensitivity. He was quiet, loyal, courteous, diligent and humble, never confused the moral with the legal, and lived by the ancient codes of chivalry. He had crystal clear integrity and never inflicted pain. Jim never talked about "Duty, Honor, Country;" he just lived by it as if that were the only natural thing for him to do. He serenely carried his burden, fought all his battles by himself, and made this world a better place, just by having been here. He was a true son of West Point and he will be missed.

- Mariana von Dobeneck and Classmates

Hugh C. Holt

NO. 17726  •  14 Dec 1926 - 25 Jan 2004

Died in Charlottesville, VA
Inurned in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA


Hugh Carter Holt, Jr, was born in South Boston, VA, to Hugh Carter Holt, Sr., and Mary Bessie Lacy Holt, both of whom died before Hugh was 14 years old. The upside to this tragedy was that Hugh was very popular with his relatives, so he had his choice of families with which to live. He chose to live with Uncle William and Aunt Anne Lacy in Halifax, VA, which became Hugh’s hometown. That Hugh was well thought of in Halifax is evidenced by a friend’s recollection that "Hugh was always more advanced in his thinking whether it be how to play a prank on somebody or a better way to solve an impossible task. In sports, he was a fierce competitor, but he never seemed to work at his studies as hard as some but always got top grades."

In high school during 1940-44, Hugh was active in the Boy Scouts, Honor Council, and varsity athletics, receiving monograms in basketball and baseball. In his senior year he was president of his class and the Honor Council. At commencement he was awarded the Outstanding Athlete medal and the Balfour Key for citizenship, scholarship, and leadership.

Upon passing the Army aviation cadet examinations, Hugh got the opportunity to attend Gettysburg College in Gettysburg, PA, to study basic engineering. He then was assigned to Scott Field, IL, in April 1945 for cryptographers school. After this course, while awaiting orders for overseas, Hugh received an honorable discharge from the Army. He immediately received, and proudly accepted, a principal appointment to the Military Academy with the Class of '50. He then attended the Bullis School in Maryland to prepare for West Point.

As a cadet, Hugh was active in the French club and the hop committee. His leadership potential was recognized by his selection in First Class year as a cadet lieutenant, serving as second-in-command of Company L-1. On graduation in June 1950, Hugh was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Infantry. He then served in various command and staff assignments, including combat duty as a platoon leader in the 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in Korea.

Hugh met his wife, Ann Reeves, during his cadet days. They married on 3 Nov 1951. Their first child, Elizabeth Ann, was born in 1952, followed by a son, Hugh Carter III, in 1953, both at Ft. Benning, GA. While overseas, another son, John David, was born in 1956. After returning to the United States, daughter Laura Lincoln was born in 1958.

Hugh's other overseas service included rifle company commander with the 39th Infantry Regiment in Germany and instructor at the Seventh Army NCO Academy in Munich. He served on the ROTC staff at Marion Military Institute, AL, in 1958-62. During 1963-64 he was one of two Army officers on the joint staff, Iceland Defense Force, and he spent 1966-69 in the Panama Canal Zone, serving as chief of Budget Division; commander of 3rd Battalion, 5th Infantry, and XO for the 193rd Infantry Brigade. During this assignment, Hugh attended Jumpmaster School and Jungle Operations Training. This training served him well in Viet Nam during 1969-70, when he served as the deputy commander, 3rd Brigade; commander of the 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division; and deputy commander, 3rd Brigade, 9th Infantry Division. He was the comptroller, Combat Development Command, during 1970-73 and in 1973-78 served as deputy chief of staff, Comptroller, USAREUR. From 1978 until his retirement as a colonel in 1980, he served in Germany as chief, Budget Division, ODCS, Resource Management, USAREUR. At retirement, Hugh held several decorations, inducting two Legions of Merit, a Bronze Star for Valor, Army Commendation Medal, Purple Heart, Viet Nam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Parachutist Badge, and five campaign ribbons.

He was a graduate of the U.S. Army Infantry School’s Advanced and Airborne courses and of Command and General Staff College. In 1966, he earned an MBA degree from the University of Kentucky

Having lived in many homes during his Army career, Hugh and Ann returned to his boyhood home in Halifax, VA, upon his retirement. There they vowed not to budge except for a good game of golf or bridge not far from home. In Halifax, Hugh was the town administrator for eight years, a task he found "challenging and exceptionally rewarding." Because of the many improvements he instituted, he knew he left Halifax in good financial shape when he retired again in 1990.

The Holts' happy life was dealt a terrible blow when Ann died suddenly of a massive heart attack in 1995. She was Hugh’s hero, greatest supporter, faithful and loyal wife, and, above all, his best friend. Life improved when Hugh introduced Elizabeth "Betsy' Moore to the family. Betsy had lost her husband three years before, and she found Hugh to be good company. The connection between them dated back to their childhood, and Hugh and Betsy married in August 1996. With no children to raise or finances to worry about, they spent happy hours together with friends and family. Hugh’s health began to deteriorate, but all were hopeful, as he did not complain and remained cheerful. When he died, he went quickly; it seemed sudden only because he remained quiet about his pain and fatigue.

Hugh is missed by his beloved town, childhood friends, classmates, and by the Holt and Moore families. My dad was a strong and courageous soldier; an honorable, respectful man; and a gentle, understanding, tolerant, loving father. I miss him so.

- His daughter Libby

Frank A. Henning

NO. 17759  •  4 May 1927 - 30 May 2000

Died in Atlanta, GA
Inurned in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA


Frank Andrew Henning III, or "Bud," as his family called him, was born at Jefferson Barracks, MO, where his mother’s parents were stationed. His maternal grandfather was an Army officer, as was his father, who had graduated from West Point in 1920. Bud grew up during the Depression on Army posts at Ft. Sill, OK, Ft. Leavenworth, KS; Ft. Bragg, NC; and Washington, DC. Bud had no doubts about what he wanted to do with his life. At an early age he knew that West Point and the Army were his destiny. The advent of WWII only reinforced that desire and, instead of accompanying his parents around the United States while his father's division prepared for combat overseas, Bud enrolled in the Gunnery School in Washington, CT and then at Sullivan’s Preparatory School in Washington, DC, to prepare for West Point.

As a cadet, Frank, as his classmates knew him, although quiet and serious in outlook, was popular and well liked by his company mates. More importantly, he was seen as a friend who could be counted on when anyone needed help. That was how those who knew him best as a cadet remembered him. Many years after graduation, a company mate recalled how, during Plebe year, Frank had humorously advised him to try out for the Plebe soccer squad. If successful, this would give his friend a chance to eat his meals at a training table, free from the harassment of upperclassmen. Frank specifically suggested soccer because soccer was not a very familiar sport in those days and a plebe stood a fairly decent chance of making the team. The cadet in question admitted that he did not take the advice offered. He also ruefully recalled that he never did get to sit at a training table.

The '50 Howitzer noted that Frank was conscientious in every assigned duty, frequently suggesting additions to or improvements in cadet administrative matters. He was active in the French club and served on the staff of the Howitzer. His selection as a cadet first lieutenant during his First Class year reflected the high esteem in which both his classmates and the Academy staff held him.

After graduation on 6 Jun 1950, Frank, as a new second lieutenant of Infantry, was assigned to the 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Division, stationed at Bamberg, Germany. In later years he would enjoy attending the many reunions of the division, his beloved "Blue Spaders." It was during this initial posting that Frank met his future wife, Ann Crane, in Heidelberg, Germany, in 1951. Ann was there on a European tour with her mother - a graduation gift following Ann's graduation from the Pasadena Playhouse in Pasadena, CA. Frank and Ann met at the Officers Club in Heidelberg, and they married three months later.

Some of Frank' s Army career highlights include service with the Ist Battle Group, 21st Infantry Regiment in Korea (1956); aide toGeneral Charles Palmer (1957-60) at the Presidio in California, and the Army Language School in Monterey, CA, where he became proficient in Portuguese with a follow-on assignment as an instructor in that language at West Point (1961-64). After graduating in 1968 from the Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth, Frank went on to serve as a battalion commander in Viet Nam in the 173rd Airborne Brigade. During his tour he was awarded the Legion of Merit, a Bronze Star for Valor, three Bronze Stars, five Air Medals, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. In the early 1970s Frank's extensive experience with the Infantry was put to good use at the Land Warfare Laboratory at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD. His performance in this command as operations officer and chief, Military Operations Division, resulted in his being awarded the Meritorious Service Medal when he left that assignment. His final service duty was with the Reserve Divisions Group at Ft. Gillem, GA. When he retired from this assignment in 1978 as a lieutenant colonel, he was awarded his second Legion of Merit.

While in retirement in Decatur, GA, Frank worked extensively on family genealogy, authoring Ayers and Heirs, a book that explored his mother's side of his family. His marriage to Ann ended in divorce in 1992. After a long battle with cancer, Frank passed away in hospice care eight years later. He is survived by his two daughters and sons-in-law: Kay Hopkins and James Hopkins, LCDR USN (retired), of Springfield, VA; Carol Snyder and Dr. Robert Snyder of Carrollton, GA, six grandchildren; and his brother, William L. Henning. The pride and deep interest that Frank had in his children and grandchildren were readily apparent in the descriptions he provided about them in his contributions to the class's reunion books.

Frank was a loyal son of West Point who served his country in peace and war with great distinction. He lived a life that reflected the Academy creed of "Duty, Honor, Country. His family, classmates, and friends continue to miss him.

- Daugters Kay Hopkins and Carol Snyder, and brother William Henning

Harold A. Gottesman

NO. 17373  •  7 Sept 1926 – 21 Nov 2001

Died in Old Lyme, CT 
Interred in West Point Cemetery, West Point, NY


Harold Aaron Gottesman, born in Newark, NJ, was the oldest of Sadie and Joseph Gottesman’s four children. Known as "Hal," he skipped a grade in elementary school and was an A student. Throughout his academic, military, and business ventures, Harold’s mental agility would leave others admiring his ability to concentrate and to bring all of his knowledge to bear on a challenge. Studying and solving problems and helping others find the answers, too was Harold's passion, and his mind was every bit as wonderful as the machines and concepts he spent a lifetime mastering.

Harold graduated from Hillside High School in 1943 and, already interested in engineering, enrolled at the Carnegie Institute of Technology in Pittsburgh. Studying through the summers, passing two classes that met simultaneously, and taking a late night job as an elevator operator so he could study while working, Harold earned both a bachelor's and master's degree in mechanical engineering in just three years.

Harold knew the role the military played in American life and, especially, in his preferred scientific fields of study. He wanted to continue his schooling with the best and brightest, and that meant West Point.

A member of Company E-2, Harold quickly gained a reputation as one of the top academic performers. As much as Harold enjoyed learning, he also enjoyed helping others learn. One of his roommates, Andrew Rutherford, remembered Harold was often his savior when it came to math and science courses. Jerome Waldor, another classmate and a lifelong friend, said Harold was always generous with his academic skills even if it cost him time or effort. He tutored and was always available to help cadets who needed it. Harold earned the Veterans of Foreign Wars prize in physics, finishing at the top of the class in that subject. He also participated in the French Club, Radio Club, Pointer, Jewish Chapel Choir, and Ski Club.

Harold left West Point with a fierce appreciation for American freedoms and the costs of protecting them. Later in life, he would become deeply involved with the West Point Jewish Chapel and the U.S.S. Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum in New York City.

Harold met Barbara Freid of Brooklyn, NY, shortly before his First Class year, when he and classmate Ben Lewis visited Ben’s sister at the summer camp in Maine where she and Barbara were counselors. Harold and Barbara married after graduation.

Harold entered the Air Force and completed primary flight training at Connelly Air Force Base, Waco, TX. He did a stint in Enid, OK, for advanced flight training before being assigned to Mather Field in Sacramento, CA, where he flew training missions. His last post was Kelly Field in San Antonio, TX, where he oversaw a unit ferrying airplane engines around the country.

Harold left the military in early 1954 to begin a business career in New Jersey. After jobs with his father’s handkerchief company and the Cooper Alloy Corporation, a great opportunity arose when his father purchased an old industrial building on Edison Place in Newark. Because the site was near the railroad station, Joseph decided to demolish the structure and construct a parking lot. He suggested that Harold and brother Jerry (USNA '52) operate the lot. The business opened in February 1956.

"We were working like crazy," recalls Jerry. "Dad saw us going from $11 to $40 to $80 to $ 100. What else could he be but happy? He got pleasure out of seeing us working hard together."

Edison Park Fast expanded quickly, and the Gottesman brothers became well known around the New York metropolitan area for their expertise, hard work, and first class operations. By the early 1970s, they owned or managed more than 150 locations and consulted for others who needed help building or running parking facilities.

The Gottesmans expanded into the ministorage business in the 1970s, opening Manhattan Mini Storage for New Yorkers who needed space to store their extra belongings. In 1978, they purchased the Hippodrome, a 650,000 square foot office building in midtown Manhattan.

The real estate business suited Harold's fondness for both math and science. He had a mind for numbers and a specialty for coming up with solutions to the unique challenges that arose with each property. He loved to figure out what made a ticket spitter work or where to put an elevator, how to negotiate leases or when to change prices.

All his life, Harold credited the discipline, excellence, and leadership skills West Point espoused for much of his success in business. Employees and associates alike recall Harold as fair and eager to help others find the answers they needed. He enjoyed grinding out the details of any problem as much as top level meetings, and he took pride in the successes of the people around him.

Harold and Barbara had two daughters while living in Union, NJ: Ellen in 1954 and Robin in 1956. After moving to West Orange, NJ, they had a son, Andrew, in 1970. His children were the beneficiaries of his intelligence and experience, with help always available for everything from homework to home buying. Robin simply called him "The Answer." He and Barbara separated in 1987.

Harold sold much of the business to his brother in 1998 and retired to Old Lyme, CT, with his companion, Madelaine Goldish. There he was able to enjoy all of the tinkering and work a new home requires.

Harold never stopped learning or teaching. He was excited about helping his son succeed in business and treasured a phone call from one of his grandchildren looking for help with a math assignment. All who knew him are poorer for the passing of a mentor but also well prepared to solve the problems they face. That is his legacy.

Louis V. Genuario

NO. 17926  •  1 Jan 1926-10 Jan 2004

Died in Alexandria, VA
Interred in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA

 

At age 14, when Louis Vincent Genuario first saw the words Duty Honor, Country on a West Point brochure, he knew he wanted to attend the Academy and serve his country. Little did he then know that the values instilled by West Point would be tested as he and one hundred of his classmates would be thrown into combat in Korea shortly after graduation in 1950.

Lou was born in Norwalk, CT, to Arthur and Gemma Genuario. The oldest of three children, Lou enjoyed a wonderful childhood surrounded by an extended family of Italian immigrants. Some of his most enjoyable memories as a youth were those of living in Yonkers, NY, from 1931 to 1939. Lou would recall how those years were filled with endless games of sandlot baseball, roller and ice skating, football, handball, and swimming, all without the benefit of Little League organization. His father's work took the family back to Norwalk, where Lou graduated from Norwalk High School in 1944, lettering in soccer, basketball, and baseball, as well as being an honor student. There, he met Rose Greco, his future wife.

After graduation, Lou enlisted in the Army and volunteered for an assignment with the Air Corps to the China-Burma-India Theater. While there, Lou recalled being captured by the Chinese. He and a fellow soldier were taking target practice when Red Chinese soldiers appeared and took them by force to their colonel. They learned their bullets were ricocheting and going into the Chinese compound. After promising to stop, they were released.

While on active duty, Lou received an appointment to West Point. Prior to entering in 1946, he attended the USMA Preparatory School at Amherst College, MA. At the Academy, Lou later admitted that he was more successful athletically than academically. He played baseball and earned four letters in soccer, serving as captain his fourth year. Lou often credited his roommates for helping him survive the demands of the classroom.

Lou married Rose, his high school sweetheart, on graduation day. After a brief honeymoon, he was sent to Korea in August 1950 to help stop the advance of the North Korean Army. Lou was assigned to 2-38 Infantry, 2d Infantry Division in Pusan. As the reality of war became more evident before his first engagement, his battalion commander warned that "the first thing you've got to do is to conquer your fears." Lou credited his platoon sergeant for providing critical combat advice and support, which helped him overcome his fears and lead his men into combat.

Lou was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 12 Sep 1950. The citation reads as follows: "The platoon received the brunt of the enemy attempt to escape the encirclement. When the success of the mission was threatened due to a weakening of our line, LT Genuario, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, charged the enemy position with hand grenades and automatic weapons fire. Enemy breakthrough was averted and approximately 100 enemies were annihilated. His gallant action on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the armed forces of the United States."

Lou's combat tour was cut short two weeks later after he received serious abdominal and hip wounds. He endured a long struggle to overcome these wounds, spending almost two years in St. Alban's Hospital, Long Island, NY. Upon partial recovery, although unable to serve in the Infantry, Lou was reassigned to the Corps of Engineers with assignments to Governor's Island, NY, with the First Army, and the Engineer Officer Candidate School, Ft. Belvoir, VA. He received a MS degree in Civil Engineering from Harvard University in 1956.

Lou had several subsequent assignments. The most meaningful to him was returning to West Point from 1957 to 1960 to take charge of converting the massive riding hall into Thayer Hall, a multi-floored academic building. From that assignment, Lou took his growing family, (six children in eight years) to Verdun, France, for a three-year assignment as a company commander constructing military facilities. His next assignment was to Ft. Leavenworth, KS, to attend the Command and General Staff College. He then spent the next three years at the Pentagon with the Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, after which he retired in 1966. After spending three years as the area engineer for the District of Columbia, supervising the construction of the Mall Tunnel, Lou left public service and began a private career by founding a successful general contracting and homebuilding business in Alexandria, VA. The Genuario Companies are now run by his two sons, Rick and Louis, Jr.

For almost 40 years Lou was extremely active in the Alexandria community. He was a founding member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church, where he was extensively involved in parish activities. His involvement with his church resulted in his appointment by the Bishop of Arlington to serve on the diocesan committee to develop plans for a priests' retirement home. He served on several Fairfax County Boards. For this service he was posthumously honored by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. He also served on Alexandria's committee on affordable housing and helped establish the first homeless shelter in Fairfax County. Lou was also active in professional associations serving as Vice President of the Northern Virginia Building Industry Association, which, in 1998, named his company the Builder of the Year. An avid golfer, Lou served on the board of directors at Mt. Vernon Country Club and was elected president for two years. He also served as historian for the Class of 1950.

Lou is survived by his wife Rose; two sons, Rick and Louis, Jr.; four daughters, Donna G. Hart, Marina G. Nagler, Christina Genuario-Gill, and Debra G. Whitt; and a sister, Maria G. Sikes. Lou was blessed with fourteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

My father will always be remembered for his devotion to his family, country and faith, and for his great compassion and high sense of honor. The way he lived his life no doubt presumes that Dad died in God's good graces and is well on his way to that eternal happiness with Him.

- His son, Rick

Charles A. Gabriel

NO. 17630  •  21 Jan 1928 - 4 Sep 2003

Died in Arlington,VA 
Interred in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington,VA


GEN Charles Alvin Gabriel’s death signifies the end of an era in both West Point and Air Force histories. With no West Point graduates now serving as Air Force generals, GEN Gabriel may be the last West Pointer to complete a term as the Air Force Chief of Staff.

His military career began with unexpected publicity in 1946. President Truman received a letter from the football coach at Catawba College, claiming he had caught Blaike’s assistant coach, Herman Hickman, "red?handed, stealing football players." Hickman had lured Charlie Gabriel to West Point under the pretense that he was "good officer material." The Catawba coach continued, "Hickman isn’t fooling anybody. It’s obvious the only reason he wants the boy is because of his athletic ability." The Catawba coach was right about Charlie’s athletic ability. Charlie had entered Catawba College at 16 and, the following year, broke conference passing records and was named Small College All-American. But Hickman certainly did not exaggerate when he stated Charlie was good officer material.

Cadet Gabriel disclosed the personality and broad?based talent that forecast future success. Despite playing varsity football, basketball, and baseball, Charlie always found enough time for academics to remain in the top half of his class. But most important was his leadership style, nurtured while at West Point. Throughout his career, he consistently built team spirit and solved difficult problems by encouraging others to do their best in a positive, cooperative way.

LT Gabriel was assigned to fly F-51's in the Korean War. After flying many close support and interdiction missions, the 18th Fighter Bomber Wing was converted to F-86s. Gabriel shot down two MIG-15s before completing 100 missions. He then volunteered for Germany, where the next three years were spent performing career-broadening duties not available in combat.

While Gabriel was in Europe, President Eisenhower secured the foundation of the Air Force Academy. His goal was to instill West Point standards, ethics, and discipline in USAFA graduates. Entering cadets needed face-to-face leadership, and CPT Gabriel was one of the few chosen for this important task. Throughout his career, GEN Gabriel retained an active interest in the Air Force Academy. He never forgot West Point but remained proud of his strong ties with USAFA.

MAJ Gabriel graduated from the Naval War College, Command & Staff Program, in 1962. He then attained a master’s degree in engineering management from George Washington University, followed by three years in Studies and Analysis, Air Force Headquarters. LTC Gabriel graduated from the Industrial College o the Armed Forces in 1967 and then was transferred to NATO headquarters as executive to the Chief of Staff.

During 1971-72, COL Gabriel commanded the large composite wing at Udorn, Thailand. Because of its proximity to Hanoi and Northern Laos, this wing was often tasked for the most challenging assignments. He flew 152 combat missions and earned the respect and loyalty of all by leading the most difficult missions. Never one to brag, Gabriel typically credited successful missions to well-deserving younger officers.

Following promotion in 1972, BG Gabriel moved through several staff positions with ever-increasing responsibilities. The next generation of military leadership, typically colonels and brigadier generals in Viet Nam, were sorting out the true lessons to be learned from the Viet Nam War. As the deputy director of Air Force Operations, he became a key spokesman for Air Force positions. Assigned to Tactical Air Command Headquarters as DCS Operations, MG Gabriel led his staff through the successful development and implementation of "Red Flag" a new way to train tactical units under near?combat conditions. By working closely with the Army Doctrine Command, USAFE, and PACAF, he successfully resolved many competing requirements with his calm, objective approach to problem-solving.

His outstanding work at HQ TAG resulted in promotion to lieutenant general and assignment in 1977 as the deputy commander, U.S. Forces Korea and D-CINC, UNC. Working with Korean forces, he improved the command and control procedures for UNC forces. In 1979, he became the Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, for Plans and Readiness. This was a difficult period. Money was short and so were tempers. The Joint Chiefs were torn between supporting their services and supporting policies that often ignored service needs. His objective manner and experience in joint operations were instrumental in resolving inter-service arguments during those troubled times.

In July 1980, GEN Gabriel assumed command of USAFE and Allied Air Forces in central Europe. He was the first USAFE commander to have combat and command experience in both the Korean and Viet Nam wars. His impressive credentials were readily accepted at all levels within USAFE and NATO. He persuasively advocated the case for spectacular new developments in air weaponry, such as precision guided munitions.

GEN Gabriel became the Air Force Chief of Staff in 1982. Money was now available to rebuild the deteriorating infrastructure and increase pay. Air Force morale soared. Because GEN Gabriel was a fighter pilot, some were concerned that he would focus on tactical aviation to the detriment of strategic, airlift, and space demands. Surprising many observers, he announced his first priority would be modernizing strategic forces after years of neglect. His reputation as a healer was quickly perceived throughout the Air Force.

GEN Gabriel retired in 1986 after four very successful years as Chief of Staff His retirement years were active until a debilitating disease forced him into full retirement. His wife Dorothy; daughter Jane; son Charles, Jr.; and five grandchildren survive him.

To summarize a career as important and with as many achievements as GEN Gabriel's is difficult. Because his positive leadership rose above all lesser details, a biblical quote from the book of Luke may best describe his life: 'And the rough ways made smooth."

- Fellow airman and classmate Dick Leavitt

Robert M. Chambers

NO. 17888  •  29 May 1926 - 7 June 2003

chambersrm.jpg

Died in San Antonio, TX
Interred in Ft Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, TX


The Howitzer says Robert Middleton Chambers was proud of his hometown of Middleport, OH, on the widest bend in the Ohio River. It was there, in quiet middle America, that "Bob" was born and grew up as the only child of Marcus and Elsie Chambers. Bob’s father had served in WWI and his grandfather in the Union Army during the Civil War. Their war stories, coupled with Bob’s avid interest in history and the events dealing with WWII, inspired Bob to pursue a military career.

Before he knew it, Bob turned 18 and was drafted into the Army. Subsequently, he received appointments to both the United States Naval and Military Academies. Fortunately for the Army, Bob chose West Point. He never regretted that decision and was extremely proud of being a member of the Long Gray Line.

Ben Lewis, a classmate and cadet roommate, later wrote, "Bob came to West Point already fully prepared to live the motto, 'Duty, Honor, Country' and he demonstrated a mature understanding of what he had to do at West Point to prepare himself for an Army career as a leader."

Throughout his cadet days, Bob worked quietly, meticulously, and diligently. He developed rigorous study habits as he persevered to understand subjects that did not come easily to him. He was a master at focusing on the subject at hand by blocking out voices and ambient noises that could have destroyed his concentration. All who knew Bob could attest to the fact that he kept this desirable ability for the remainder of his life. Lou Genuario, a Plebe and First Class year roommate, said, "Bob had a unique ability to remain unflappable in the midst of confusion. He was a great stabilizing influence, had a wry sense of humor, was a wonderful roommate, and a superb friend."

Bob chose Infantry and quickly became one of the first members of the Class of '50 to fight in the Korean War. After a shortened graduation leave, he reached Japan as the Eighth Army was fighting for its life with its back to the sea near Pusan, Korea. In Japan, he was assigned as a platoon leader in the reorganizing 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. Due to the shortage of replacement troops, hundreds of Koreans were integrated in the unit. This international integration provided Bob with invaluable experience he later used in Viet Nam.

Bob was fortunate enough to participate in the classic amphibious invasion at Inchon as a rifle platoon leader in the 17th Infantry. After the capture of Seoul, the 17th Infantry, with Bob still one of its junior leaders, raced northward towards the Manchurian border. On 20 Nov 1950, it became the first U.S. unit to reach the Yalu River. Under instructions not to shoot north of the river, they patrolled south of the river. The aggressive and daring attack northward and the highly pressured withdrawal southward provided Bob with more invaluable experiences that he would draw upon in Viet Nam years later.

Following Korea, he was assigned to Camp Roberts, CA, and then to occupation duty with the U.S. Forces in Austria and Germany. There, he met a young lady from Oklahoma, Troy Chancey, working for the Army Service Club. She quickly became the love of his life and, after a whirlwind courtship, they were married in Salzburg, Austria. They traveled as much as they could in their beloved Europe until their union produced two children: son David and daughter Carol. David and Carol are now married and living in Texas, near enough to San Antonio that visits were relatively frequent. Bob particularly delighted in visits with his two teenage grandsons.

Bob was immensely proud of his contributions to the Viet Nam War. He was the province advisor of Phuoc Thanh in 1964. His primary concerns were with pacification and turning most of the defensive duties over to the South Vietnamese. Although he had reservations about the programs themselves and how they were progressing, he later said, "I was happy because I had done some good."

During his 26 years of active duty Bob received numerous medals and awards. His most cherished were four Legions of Merit, one Bronze Star, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

For Bob, the world was a place of wonder and infinite fascination. He delighted in sharing his interests with others. Thus, many of his military assignments and his pursuits in retirement involved teaching. Teaching related assignments while on active duty included faculty duties at Command and General Staff College and time spent as instructor/commander at four different Army career training centers. After retirement in 1975, Bob taught landscaping at a local community college and marine mammal and introductory computer classes at junior high schools. The results were always successful because his enthusiasm was contagious and he taught with clarity and purpose.

A severe stroke in January 1998 left him mentally alert but physically incapacitated. Nevertheless, he continued occupying his time reading, listening to music, surfing the Internet, and attending classes for senior citizens. He never permitted his disabilities to darken his outlook on life or halt participation in the activities he enjoyed. His humor never diminished. His children said, "He was capable of the most wicked one liners, and what could only be described as groaners. Through the darkest days, he would unnerve the nurses and orderlies with an unexpected joke or pun."

Bob was a kind and gentle man who believed everything was possible. He will be missed by Troy, his loving wife of 48 years; son David and his wife, Rose; daughter Carol and her husband, Steve; grandchildren; relatives; and a host of caring friends worldwide.

Job well done! Be thou at peace.

-Classmate Bill Mastoris, with generous contributions from wife Troy, family, and classmates

David K. Carlisle

NO. 17405  •  5 February 1927 - 15 January 2000

Died 15 January 2000 in Los Angeles, CA.
Cremated & inurned in Los Angeles National Veterans Cemetery, Los Angeles, CA

 

AS HIS CLASSMATE, Al Fern, said at the funeral, "Dave Carlisle was ahead of his time." It is true. David Kay Carlisle was born in 1927 and attended the Academy during 1946-50, a time when the Academy was not yet ready for a bright, brash African-American. Dave grew up in west Los Angeles, in an accomplished middle class family, and did not know he was supposed to be humble. He was academically gifted and a leader, even as a young man. After a year at the California Institute of Technology, Dave entered West Point and met the realities of the Army of that day.

It will be hard for younger readers to appreciate that the Army, after WWII, was as biased as the society from whence it sprang. During his time at West Point, Dave and the other African - American cadet in the Class of'50, Bob Green, were segregated and made to room together apart from their companies. Despite that treatment, Dave succeeded. He won the acceptance, respect, and affection of his companymates and, despite a few exceptions, the Corps. When Dave graduated from the Academy, he was only the 14th African - American to do so, though none of us knew that, or cared, at the time. Cadet gray turned out to be more important to us than either black or white.

Members of the Class of '50 graduated to find that the Korean War broke out while we were on graduation leave. He was assigned to the 77th Engineer Combat Company, an all African-American unit supporting the 24th Infantry Regiment of the 25th Infantry Division. He served as platoon leader, company executive officer, and, finally, company commander. In September 1951, the Army desegregated its all African-American units in Eighth Army. Dave was in command when the 77th Engineer Combat Company, the Army's last segregated combat unit, was disestablished.

For Dave, like many of the rest of our class, the Korean War was a defining moment. It was from that experience that he found later in life his cause - recognition of the worth and contributions of the African-American soldiers of that war.

After the Korean War, Dave earned a master's of science in civil engineering at MIT and served in Engineer assignments in the U.S. and Germany. While Dave was in charge of the Corps of Engineers Area Office at Loring AFB in Maine, his wife Alma, an architect and engineer, also worked for the Corps. When Dave went to Germany to serve in an Engineer construction battalion, he ran into trouble. His health was poor at the time, but he got no sympathy from his superiors and, reluctantly, left the Army in 1958.

Dave went on, though. He became an assistant to the director of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. In 1964, he became vice president of Central State University, Wilberforce, OH. In 1968, he became a special consultant on educational technology to the U.S. Department of Labor, NASA, and the White House staffs of Presidents Johnson and Nixon. During 1969-70, Dave was a division manager for Volt Information Systems and, during 1970-73, was CEO of Innovative Sciences.

In 1974, Dave was forced to retire from business due to his poor health. His kidneys failed, and he was dependent on frequent dialysis sessions, restricting his body, but not his spirit. He conducted an incessant campaign to persuade the Army to revise its official history of the Korean War that depicted the African-American troops as cowards who broke and ran at any noise. As a result of his frequent letters and phone calls, in 1996 the Army published a new history of the 24th Infantry Regiment, Black Soldier, White Army. While the new history went a long way to correct the errors of the original official history, it did not satisfy Dave. He insisted, and others agreed, that the African-American soldiers fought as well as the white soldiers. Both responded positively to good leadership. Some "bugged out," but most fought with courage and heroism throughout the war.

Dave also was a family man. His wife Alma continued her career and became Director of the Historic and Cultural Resources Survey of the City of Los Angeles. They raised three attractive and accomplished children with doctorates - a physician, a lawyer, and a computer scientist. Dave was an influential member of his family and his neighborhood and was liked and respected by all. He was a good friend, to all who knew him, throughout his life.

Despite the unfairness of his treatment, Dave remained an idealist. He persisted in his duty until the day he died. He was an honorable man who never gave up his search for truth, nor shirked from an unpopular cause. He served his country well in war and in peace. He epitomizes the spirit of West Point that inspires us to choose the harder right.