Russell Eugene Leggett

NO. 17436  •  

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- Elliot E. Heit

Burke Whitehurst Lee, Jr.

NO. 17363  •  11 September 1927 – 25 December 1982

Died 25 December 1982 in Charlotte, North Carolina, aged 55 years.
Interment: Fairlawn East, Matthews, North Carolina.


BURKE WHITEHURST LEE, JR. was born on 11 September 1927, in Montgomery, Alabama, the son of Burke Whitehurst and Ethel Mallox Lee. When Burke was two months old, his family moved to Jacksonville Beach, Florida, where he attended grammar and high schools. After graduation, he attended Marion Institute while seeking an appointment to West Point. He entered the Academy in July 1946, appointed by Senator Claude Pepper.

Throughout his cadet days, Burke was a member of Company E‑2. He established his academic credentials early by earning the stars of a distinguished cadet while a plebe and then repeated this achievement each year he was a cadet. In addition to holding academic and military rank, he was a member of the Cadet Chapel Choir.

While a cadet, Burke courted Elizabeth Dunn of Jacksonville, whom he had met at church just prior to leaving for the Academy. They were married on 1 July 1950, three weeks after graduation.

Their idyllic honeymoon was marred by news of the invasion of South Korea by Communist forces. At the conclusion of graduation leave, Lish drove with Burke to Camp Stoneman, California, where he embarked for duty in the Far East.

Burke's first troop assignment was with the 72nd Combat Engineer Company, assigned to the 5th Regimental Combat Team. He was involved in a variety of combat engineer assignments in support of the infantry regiment as it engaged in offensive and defensive operations in all types of terrain on the Korean Peninsula. Upon returning from Korea, he served as a tactical officer in the Engineer Officer Candidate School at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

Burke's abilities were recognized in a number of troop assignments, including command of an engineer company in Germany and duty with the Tactical Department at USMA from 1959 to 1962. He brought the same keen intellect to his military assignments that had made him a top student. His seriousness was tempered by a sense of humor and compassion that made him sensitive to the needs of his fellow soldiers.

Burke served in Vietnam as the Senior Military Advisor to the Vietnamese III Corps. Vietnamese combat and construction engineer units benefitted from his experience as they worked on bridge, road, and airfield construction assignments throughout the Corps area. Upon returning from Vietnam, his knowledge of field conditions was utilized in force development duty on the Army Staff. Assignments of increasing responsibility, which included Assistant Commandant of Cadets at USMA and Chief of Staff of the 3rd Infantry Division in Germany, followed.

Upon retirement from active duty in 1975, Burke was employed by the Charles T. Main engineering firm in Boston. Once again, his professional ability and character resulted in assignments of increasing responsibility. He became a Vice President of the firm in 1978 and, in 1980, was appointed Manager of the Southern District in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Burke's sudden death came as a shock to his friends in the military and civilian community as well as his family because he had enjoyed good health prior to a fatal heart attack on Christmas Day 1982.

In addition to work as an engineer, he had continued his lifelong practice of lay activities in his church. In every aspect of his life ‑ professional, religious, or familial, his ideals and contributions were substantial and devoted to others.

Burke and Lish were blessed with a loving family of four children. Patti (Mrs. Russell Richardson), Burke III, Peggy (Mrs. Stephen Maye), and Nancy (Mrs. Robb Chapin) were as devoted to their father as he was to them. Their five grandchildren are Katie Lee, Kelli, and Megan Richardson and Elizabeth and Carolyn Maye. An enduring memory is his commitment to their happiness.

His friends, too, were warmed by the affection which came from the heart of this true gentleman. In him we have an inspiring example of a soldier dedicated to the ideals of our Alma Mater. His country was blessed by his service. We were blessed by his friendship.

-A Classmate

Robert Paul Leary

NO. 17514  •  27 October 1927 – 20 March 1969

Died 20 March 1969 in Walter Reed General Hospital, Washington, D.C., aged 41 years.
Interment: Cataumet Cemetery, Cataumet, Massachusetts


0N 20 MARCH 1969, just a little over two months after receiving his promotion to Colonel and taking command of Signal Group 22 in Mannheim, Germany, Bob Leary died in Walter Reed Army Hospital at the age of 41, of acute leukemia.

As his wife Joan expressed it so well, "God wished for him to be part of His perfect existence." Everyone who knew Bob can realize how well be would fit in such a plan, for perfection was an inherent part of him. In everything he did, be applied his scholarly mind and all his energies to a perfect execution of any task or challenge, and undergirding his quest for excellence, and adding to it a higher dimension, was his strong Christian faith. Perhaps his family and friends can reconcile themselves to his premature death by remembering the words of St. Paul to the Romans: "All things work together for good with those who love God and are called according to His purpose."

Colonel Robert Paul Leary was born in Watertown, Massachusetts, on 27 October 1927, the son of Joseph and Mary Leary. He was graduated from Watertown High School in 1945, and from West Point in 1950. His graduation from West Point did not end his formal education or his association with the Academy. After three years in Germany as platoon and company commander of signal units, he attended Syracuse University and received a Master's Degree in Business Administration in 1955. From that time until 1957 he was Chief of the Automatic Data Processing Branch of the Signal Supply Agency in Philadelphia. He went next to the Advanced Signal Officers Course, and after graduating, he returned to West Point as an instructor in Economics, International Politics, and U. S. Government.

After the completion of his West Point tour, Bob went to the Command and General Staff College before assuming command of the 4th Signal Battalion in Korea in 1963. Then in 1965, he graduated from the Armed Forces Staff College, in Norfolk, Virginia, and in 1967, from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces at Fort McNair in Washington. His last assignments before he assumed command of Signal Group 22 were at the Pentagon as Capabilities Plans Officer of ODCS-Log, then as Chief of the Logistics System Design Branch of ODCX‑Log, Headquarters USAREUR, and finally Chief of the Systems Engineering Division, USACOMZ, EUR S&MA.

Bob was a two‑time recipient of the Army Commendation Medal, and a holder of the Legion of Merit (first oak leaf cluster). One of his fellow officers, Colonel S. A. Bush, Commandant of UASECOM in Philadelphia, said of him, "Bob always epitomized to me the perfect example of what a top notch regular Army officer should look like, sound like, think like, and be. He was a natural born leader and commander, as well as a deep feeling and thinking person."

Many of these qualities of "a deep feeling and thinking person" could be observed in his family life. His pride in his career was great, but his family was the most important thing in Bob’s life. He was happiest when with Joan and their four cbildren­ - Mark, Robin, Sarah Kate, and Michael. Bob was a father who was never too busy to join in his children's activities. His keen sense of humor and his many interests enabled him to enjoy each child in a special way.

It was fitting that Bob's funeral was held at Cape Cod. It was here that Bob experienced his happiest times. It was at Cape Cod that he spent his summers as a boy. It was here that he and Joan were married in July, 1950, and it was here that he came for family reunions and vacations between his assignments.

The simple and beautiful Requiem Mass in St. John's Church, Pocasset, and the burial in the lovely cemetery in Cataumet were a fitting tribute to a fine man, a good friend, a loving husband and father, and a life well lived.

-Tom Tullidge

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

Donald Richard Langren

NO. 17621  •  

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

Philo B. Lange, Jr.

NO. 17745  •  23 January 1928 - 20 May 1999

Died in Indianapolis, IN
Interred in Crown Hill Cemetery, Indianapolis, IN


PHILO  BRENDEL  LANGE was born in Dubuque, IA, the third son of Philo B. and Alice Wells Lange. He graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter, NH, in 1946.

Following his older brother Wells '47 to West Point, Philo made his mark on the athletic fields. His strong personality often tested the discipline of the Corps, but his persistence and grit in competition came through. In four years of playing lacrosse, he earned All‑American honors and was team captain his First Class year. He also earned a minor "A" for wrestling all four years. Football was another of his sports. Though small at 155 lbs., he participated on the "brave old Army team."

June 1950 was monumental in Philo's life, as he graduated from West Point, married Rosalie McKee and received orders to Korea. He met Rosalie through his brother Robert and his Harvard roommate Edward Dunn, who became a lifelong friend in Indianapolis. Rosalie was attending Pine Manor College at the time, and they shared life together for almost 49 years.

Philo was shipped to Korea shortly after their wedding and served in the 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division as a second lieutenant. He commanded a weapons platoon and earned a Bronze Star for "action against an armed enemy near Yangyon‑ni, Korea, on 22 Jan 1951."  His citation reads, "On this date, LT Lange's company was assigned the mission of defending the town of Yangyon‑ni. When the enemy attacked with intense automatic weapons and small arms fire, LT Lange moved from position to position to direct the fire of his platoon. With utter disregard for his personal safety, he refused to take cover throughout the action." His platoon suffered severe casualties, and he carried the Bronze Star honor with a heavy heart. Philo never shared much about the Korean experience until later in life, when he reconciled the circumstances of his service in the war as a result of his Christian faith journey. He returned from Korea in 1951, was stationed at several Army posts, and he and Rosalie started their family. He was honorably discharged in April 1954 as a first lieutenant.

Rearing four children, all of whom have certain characteristics that reflect his personality, kept Philo busy with creative modes of discipline. "Reveille" awakened the household for a number of years, a memory the older sons recall fondly. All four children heard stories about the "West Point way" of doing almost everything, from table manners to punitive push‑ups. The four children returned to Indianapolis after college to live, work, and be near their parents. Philo was a grandfather to seven: six boys and one girl. His children and grandchildren were the joy of his life. Involvement in, and support of, his family’s various activities, was a priority for Philo, providing him with great pleasure.

Philo was very involved in the activities of Tabernacle Presbyterian Church, where he was married and, later, served as Elder, Deacon, and tireless volunteer. He left his imprint on the "Media Ministry," where he produced and directed a weekly television show. His skills for this were largely self‑taught.

Philo’s civilian life began in the insurance business in Indianapolis, where he rose to VP of Associates Life Insurance Company before leaving in 1967 to start Lange USA, a ski boot manufacturer, with his brothers. Lange manufactured the first molded plastic ski boot, revolutionizing the ski boot industry. They expanded their product line to include skis and hockey skates. The company held 17 patents that, in the early '70s, produced the number one ski boot in the world. Today, Lange boots continue to be an international brand leader, although the brothers sold their interest in the mid‑70s. After his departure from the ski industry, he became interested in the security business and associated with Frederick T. Cretors Company, from which he later retired.

Throughout his life, Philo excelled in sports. He played tennis regularly with friends and won numerous honors at Walloon Lake Country Club, where he and his family spent summers in northern Michigan. He developed a passion early for sailing and encouraged his children to race, often crewing for them.

All the world was a stage for Philo, and he often displayed his natural abilities in amateur theatrical performances through his participation in the Dramatic Club and Players Club. He served as president of the Dramatic Club in 1979.

Philo's influence is evident not only in the physical characteristics of his offspring, but in their commitment to faith, family, and friends, and will remain as one of his many legacies. There is no doubt that these characteristics were taught to him at West Point in the motto "Duty, Honor, Country."

After a lengthy illness, Philo Brendel Lange, Jr., passed away in May 1999, at the age of 71. Philo is survived by his wife Rosalie, sons Philo B. III and Sanford M., daughters Rosalie and Brookings L. Johnson, brothers Wells and Robert, and seven grandchildren.

Elliott Reynolds Knott

NO. 17851  •  

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


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

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

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

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

"Here he lies where he longs to be,

Home is the sailor, home from the sea;

And the hunter, home from the hills."

-F. E. T.

George D. Klie

NO. 17680  •  12 Jul 1926 – 25 Jul 1988

Died in Salisbury, MD.
Interred in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA


George Denys Klie was born in Hoboken, NJ, to George and Helen Klie. During his Army career, he became a veteran of WW II, Korea, and Viet Nam.

After graduating from high school in 1943, George spent a year at Stevens Institute of Technology and then entered the service in 1944. George was commissioned in August 1945 after completing Officer Candidate School at Camp Roberts, CA. He served in the Philippine Islands early in 1946 but returned to the States to enter West Point with the Class of 1950, resigning his OCS commission to become a cadet.

While at West Point, George's diligence and prior military experience set an example of maturity for the rest of us. There was never any doubt that his branch of choice would be the Infantry. From the earliest days of Plebe year, it was clear to us in B I that George was pure soldier. Strictly by the book and no nonsense, George loved the Army and West Point. His roommates recalled, "George was always up EARLY to dress leisurely before easily going to roll call." They added, "We struggled while George went directly to being a good cadet. He was very serious and almost perfect with brass, shoes, room, etc!” In addition to being an outstanding cadet, George was a member of the Honor and Duty Committees, worked as a section editor of the Howitzer, and was active in the Catholic Church.

Following graduation, George was assigned to Korea as a platoon leader in the 15th Regiment of the 3rd Infantry Division. While there, George was wounded in action during fighting around Hungnam and returned to the United States to recover. He then progressed through a typical Army career of staff and command.

Highlights of his career included serving as a highly respected assistant professor of military science and tactics at Valley Forge Military Academy, earning a master of science in management engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and serving on the Army staff in the Pentagon. From 1969 70, he completed a combat tour in Viet Nam as a plans officers for Headquarters, Military Assistance Command, Viet Nam.

In 1970 George received a disability retirement as a lieutenant colonel, with decorations and awards that included the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Services Commendation Medal, three Army Commendation Medals, Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

After retiring, George lived in Ocean City, MD, where he was active in volunteer community service. He was married to Joan Barrett of Philadelphia and was the father of three daughters: Barbara, Susan, and Elizabeth.
George typified the true professional, and he is appropriately interred in Arlington National Cemetery.

Neal Bert Kindig

NO. 17364  •  26 July 1928 – 7 October 1988

Died 7 October 1988 in Bath, Maine, aged 60 years.
Ashes were scattered in the Rocky Mountains.


  COLONEL KINDIG WAS HONORED with the Meritorious Service Award in recognition of honorable service in 1980, the same year he was transferred to the Retired Reserves. His contributions to the Army Reserves from 1955‑80 were in electronic technology, technical German translations and pulmonary physiology.

Neal Kindig was born 26 July 1928 in Medicine Lodge, Kansas, to Bruce and Hyacinth Kindig. He had a distinguished high school career, winning the Westinghouse Science Talent Search (1946) and the Bausch & Lomb National Science Award (1946).

After graduating as valedictorian from Medicine Lodge High School in 1946, he accepted an appointment to the West Point Military Academy. He had an academically and athletically distinguished career at the Point, earning the award as No. 1 in the subject of Ordnance in the graduating Class of 1950 and commissioned second lieutenant, Signal Corps.

Lieutenant Kindig was assigned to the European Command in 1950 and served in Germany in the 97th Signal Operation Battalion as radio operator and cryptographer. In 1954, Captain Kindig attended the Signal School at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, and was subsequently assigned to Fort Gordon as chief Engineer of the TV branch. He was honorably discharged in August 1955 and became a Reserve officer.

Now a civilian, Neal concentrated on studies in electrical engineering at the University of Colorado, earning a master's in 1957. This was the beginning of a long and distinguished career in teaching from 1957 until his retirement from the university in 1983, and in research from 1964‑‑88.

Neal started teaching electronics in 1957 at the University of Colorado and took a leave of absence for two years, 1962‑64, to study for a Ph.D in electrical engineering at Stanford University. His work on photoemission studies of the band structure of semiconductors resulted in eight published papers.

In 1969, Neal started consulting with the Pulonary Functions Lab at Fitzsimmons Army Hospital in Denver. He combined logic and mathematical respiration which resulted in a computer-­based system that measures the diffusion capacity of a single breath. This method continues to be used effectively at Fitzsimmons.

In 1979‑80, he was appointed a research fellow at the Webb‑Waring Lung Institute, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. His work with physicians focused on the critical problem of patients undergoing resuscitation from cardiac arrest or from battlefield injuries. He helped develop a buffer system, the medical patent which he shares, and which promises to revolutionize the care of the critically ill. He is the principal author or contributor to over 50 professional articles on medical research.

Dr. Kindig moved professionally across three fields ‑ solid state physics, digital electronics, and biomedical engineering­ - using knowledge gained in one and applied to the other.

Neal married Jean Matthews in 1960; their son David was born in 1963 at Stanford, and their daughter Susan was born in 1965 in Boulder. He was an ardent outdoor enthusiast who eagerly sought the challenges of the high Colorado peaks in the summers and the ski slopes in the winters.

He was a kind, gentle man, a respected professor, a dedicated researcher and loving family man whose friends, family and colleages will miss him.

William Harold Kellum

NO. 17975  •  20 October 1926 – 15 June 1951

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Clarence Q. Jones

NO. 17983  |  12 May 1926 - 30 Nov 1991

Died in Boynton Beach, FL
Interred in Palm Beach Memorial Park, Lantana, FL

 

Clarence Quentin "Zeke" Jones, Jr.was born to the Reverend Clarence Jones and Mrs. Lois Jones in Sullivan, KY. Prior to receiving an appointment to West Point, he attended Mercer University in Georgia and Northeastern College in Oklahoma.

As a cadet, Zeke was a member of several clubs, including the Railroad Club, French Club, and Weight Lifting Club. He also was a member of the Handball Club and the Radio Club. Classmates remember his cooperative spirit and unselfish attitude.

After graduation in 1950, Zeke was im­mediately sent to Korea. Upon his return to the States, he was assigned to the 469th Field Artillery Battalion in Ft. Sill, OK, In 1954, he was sent to the Ordnance Section of Headquarters, Seventh Army, Germany, as an assistant operations officer.

In 1957, Zeke was a student in the Advanced Officers Course in Ordnance in Aberdeen, MD. From 1958 to 1961, he served as the chief of the manufacturing branch at Watervliet Arsenal, NY. During this time, he was able to complete his masters degree in business at Rensselaer Polytechnical Institute.

From 1961 to 1962, Zeke returned to Germany, where he was a materials officer with Headquarters, 71st Ordnance Battalion, Stuttgart, Germany. Next, he was controller and as­sistant operations officer, Ordnance Section, Headquarters Seventh Army, Germany, until 1964, when he was assigned as an executive officer to the 701st Maintenance Battalion, Ft. Riley, KS. In 1966, Zeke went to Viet Nam as an ex­ecutive officer, Support Command, 1st Infantry Division. In April of that year, he received the Commendation Medal. On 29 Oct 1965 and 17 Sep 1966, Zeke was awarded the Bronze Star.

Zeke's last assignment before retiring was with the U.S./Federal Republic of Germany Main Battle Tank Program in Washington, DC, as chief of Plans and International Operations. On 31 May 1970, after 20 years of service, Zeke retired with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

In retirement, Zeke pursued other ca­reers. From 1970 to 1972, he served as the city manager of Boynton Beach, FL, where he continued to live the rest of his life. A few years later, he became an executive with Coulter Electronics, a company that developed medical equipment. He stayed with Coulter Electronics for ten years.

Zeke retired again, but not for long. He soon found that he loved teaching, so he then taught accounting at several local busi­ness colleges. He got along very well with his students and often invited them for weekends at his home on the lake. Both he and Betsy enjoyed this very much.

Zeke loved the Florida lifestyle. His home was on the water, enabling him to indulge his passion for fishing. He loved observing the stars and even made his own telescope. He was an avid camper and beach lover. Zeke was a member of the Palm Beach Biking club, but he was prob­ably best known as being a devout member of his church. It was the most important part of his life, and when he passed away, seven different pastors spoke at his funeral.

Zeke was a wonderful husband to Betsy and father to Jere, Julie, and Lois. In addition to his wife Betsy, he is survived by ten grand­children and four great-grandchildren.

At the time of his death, Zeke was near completion of his course work for his doc­torate in geology from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, FL.

He is greatly missed by his family and his community.

-- Jere White

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

Richard L. Johnson

NO. 17628  •  30 November 1924 – 17 August 1992

Plane disappeared in Alaska. Body never recovered.


BORN THE YOUNGEST son of Laura and Leslie Johnson in Omaha, NE, Richard Lee Johnson believed that nothing was worthwhile unless it was worth working and sacrificing for. School didn't come easy for Dick but, with his determination and perseverence, he got good grades. In high school, Dick excelled in every activity he entered. When he graduated, he had achieved every goal he had set for himself. He was an Eagle Scout, in the National Honor Society, was JROTC Cadet Captain, was named paper boy of the year for the Omaha World Herald, and had a senatorial appointment to the Naval Academy. He checked into the academy and all went well until the medical exam. The doctor declared he had a mild case of myopia.

He applied to Iowa State University to pursue a degree in engineering. Always hoping for a career in the service, he joined the Naval V‑12 program. He transferred to the University of Minnesota and joined the Delta Upsilon fraternity. He graduated in February 1946 with a bachelor of science in naval technology. While aboard ship, Dick received word that he had been offered an alternate appointment to the Military Academy from Congressman Howard Bufiet. Dick was given only three days to report to West Point. The captain diverted to Bermuda to let Dick make his reporting date. He resigned his Naval commission two days before graduation.

Dick met Phyllis Holst while en route to Omaha on leave in 1948. Their relationship grew into a lifelong partnership. They were married in her hometown, Boone, IA, on 29 Dec 1950.

-Brother Grove


Life as an army wife is never dull and life with Dick was always an adventure. The years flew by with all the moves and assignments from Ft. Benning to Korea, to the Army Engineer School, to Iowa State University, to Michigan, to Germany, to Purdue University, to Vietnam, to Ft. Belvoir again, to Thailand, and, last, to San Francisco, where he retired as a colonel. Along the way, we had three children: Laura Elaine, Craig Steven, and Jennifer Lee.

After retirement in 1974, we moved to West Lafayette, IN. There, Dick enjoyed 20 years of a very active life. His dream was to build his own home which he did ‑  almost single handedIy.

He loved to travel and took many trips ‑ to South Korea and Western Europe where we traveled by motorcycle for three weeks, seeing the Alps of Germany, Austria, France and Italy. We went to Eastern Europe on two other motorcycle trips ‑ to Russia and Poland.  Czechoslovakia, Finland, and Yugoslavia followed. His final dream trip – Alaska ‑ to see the magnificent scenery. It was on this trip, while flying in a Beachcraft Bonanza with his brother- in‑law, Frank Roth USN Ret., that their plane was lost somewhere between Anchorage and White Horse.

Dick was an excellent husband and father, dependable, loving, and caring. When not serving in far off places, he was always available for family activities. We reminisce in the memories of all the good times and the bad, especially the ordinary, everyday things that comprise a successful life with no regrets.

Dick is survived by his wife Phyllis, daughter Laura Riecken, son Craig Johnson, daughter Jennifer Carpenter, five grandchildren, and two brothers, 1LT (Ret.) Lesly H. Johnson and LTC Grove C. Johnson.                                        

-Phyllis Johnson


Why, Brother, Why

Why have I been dreaming for some time. That I must jot down a bit of rhyme. To help cleanse a haunting memory of, to me, a recent catastrophe?

My mind flashes back to when I was five in ’24. When I heard a sharp cry behind the bedroom door. Surprised, I opened the door and what I saw was my baby brother, who could really bawl.

They gave him the name of Richard Lee. But to us all it was just "Dixie. "I bad mixed feelings, you might say, For I lost my status that very day.

I got the job of giving him fresh air. By pushing his buggy (it wasn’t fair). Around the block most every day. I resented it because I wanted to play.

I didn’t like him tbose first few years. At times I had it up to my ears. But when be started to talk and make good sense, My love for him became more intense.

While in the service, he aquired a wonderful wife. They had two girls, a brilliant son, an adventurous life. He was an engineer, a paratrooper, and more. He retired a colonel and hated war.

It was in our retirement years, That we became great pals; We would go skiing and fishing and loved to be with our gab. It was this past August in 92, that they radioed they were in an icy stew. They needed altitude – that was a clue. And that’s the last anyone knew!

Nothing was found on such desolate ground. Mountains, valleys, forests, deep snow all around. One could survive only a short time, I fear even with a soft landing and survival gear.

Dixie, to me, will always be my baby brother you see. Even though he was six‑feet‑four and had me towered by an inch or more.

While I no prophet be, This I know is truth; There will always be life eternity. To me, it's memories here on earth.

It’s love, genes, and cells that linger on. And a God who’s never gone. This stirs my thoughts and visions of

Our future fate. And those awaiting at life’s Golden Gate.

Why did it happen to such a wonderful guy? That’s a question of many, many whys.

He went as be came‑‑a great surprise!  Why? I guess ‑ just because ‑ tbe strife of life.  Cry!  Why?  God bless!

By brother, Les

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.

John F. Irwin

NO. 17973  •  30 December 1926 -  19 July 1983

Died in Minneapolis, MN
Cremated, ashes scattered over the coast of Oregon.


"MOOSE!" THAT'S THE NICKNAME many classmates called John (Jack) Francis Irwin because of his size and love of water. Jack was born on Oahu in what was then the Territory of Hawaii. Not surprisingly, he learned to swim just as soon as he could walk, and learn he did! In 1950, the Moose won first place in the 50‑yard freestyle in the Eastern Intercollegiate Championship held at Annapolis.

His early schooling was in Waipahu, but at about the time of Pearl Harbor he was sent stateside and completed high school in San Luis Obispo, CA. Upon graduation in 1944, he enrolled at Stanford University and studied engineering until enlisting in the Army in 1946. He served until just before entering West Point as a member of the Class of '50. As a cadet, swimming and water polo occupied most of Jack’s time.

So, too, did Margaret, who was to become his wife soon after graduation. Margaret also had been a student at Stanford, and their meeting there in 1944 was a classic example of "love at first sight." Margaret remained at Stanford in 1947 to obtain her degree. Soon thereafter, she moved to Cornwall, NY, to be near Jack.

Commissioned in the Coast Artillery, Jack was ordered to Korea. While en route, his plane experienced engine trouble in Alaska, creating a delay that led ultimately to a changed assignment to Japan. Margaret and their young son joined him there in 1952. Later, Moose switched to Ordnance, and served at Ft. Lawton, Ft. Bliss, and Redstone Arsenal.

As time passed by, the family grew. By 1957, the Irwins counted seven children ‑ five girls and two boys. Deeming it more fitting to raise the family in the civilian sector, Moose left the Army he loved because it did not have "enough hat racks" to accommodate his clan.

For some 20 years, Jack worked for various aerospace companies on the west coast until retiring in 1977. There followed seven carefree years during which Jack and Margaret toured the United States, Mexico, and Canada in their own version of an RV. Jack died suddenly on 19 Jul 1983, in Minneapolis, MN.

Death, unlike so many swimming opponents, conquered Jack at age 56, but not before he gathered up so much in the net of that lifetime ‑ a distinguished military career, an engineering profession in civilian life, a large devoted family, and even some seven years of retirement. His family is gratefuI for the years he devoted to them. We wish he could have lived to be rewarded by the successes of his children, and the joy in knowing his grandchildren.

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

Anderson Owen Hubbard

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your Mother, Christine McCormick Hubbard

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

Robert Andrew Hetz, Jr.

NO. 17556  •  

Died 31 March 1980 in Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, aged 52 years
Interment: Gethsemane Cemetery, Laureldale, Pennsylvania


BOB HETZ. A few classmates knew him by the nickname "Zeus" ‑ in mythology ‑ the god of social values. The notoriety which some in the illustrious Class of 1950 were to enjoy passed Bob and, indeed, most of us, by. But, assuredly, he was a distinguished and proud marcher in the long gray line of those who have now gone to peace. To be sure, there were never enough like him. Bob Hetz. A name that quickly revives many fond memories of a cadet who was academically outstanding and personally appealing.

Bob was fiercely loyal to friends and causes, and his days as a cadet revolved as much around his avid support of the New York Yankees and his skill as a bridge player as his official duties. Though not indifferent, he was not thirsty for pure academic knowledge. Bob Hetz. Yes, this is the same cadet who nodded off to sleep in class ‑ even while the P was giving a somewhat long‑winded answer to a question posed by Bob himself!

Who among his friends can forget Bob's frequent forays to the library and the many books he brought back to his room. Interestingly, it seemed as if these trips were more frequent around WGR time. Not, as you might believe, to bone up for exams, but simply to help Bob bide his time while others studied.

Bob's education did not stop upon graduation. In 1966 he was awarded an MS in personnel administration from George Washington University, in Washington, D.C., and he earned an MS in education from Alfred University, Alfred, New York, in 1973. In addition Bob graduated from the Command and General Staff College in 1964.

A keen student of military history, Bob often expressed deep pride in his Germanic heritage and was even combative in extolling the successes of the Prussians. Oh how he took great joy in needling his Southern friends by insisting Robert E. Lee was but a lieutenant colonel, his highest rank in the U.S. Army.

Born 19 November 1927 in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Bob acquired an interest in West Point early in his childhood when his family vacationed nearby and annually visited the Plain. Bob's father was an officer in a savings and loan association in Scranton who delighted in taking his wife and four children to Orange Lake from which they often toured West Point.

His quest for a military career yielded him first an appointment to the Naval Academy, which he declined. The following year he obtained his coveted appointment to West Point and eagerly joined the Class of 1950. For Bob Hetz, then, what became his Alma Mater was ever near to his heart.

On 1 September 1951, Bob and his favorite drag at West Point, Rose, were married. Together they had six children, including a son who graduated from USMA in the Class of 1975. Other sons graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. He has two daughters, one a school teacher and the other a registered nurse. Bob loved ‑ and thoroughly enjoyed ‑ his large family. Shortly before he died Bob fulfilled a longtime ambition of exploring Alaska. In the summer of 1979 he, his wife and two youngest sons motored from Pennsylvania to Homer, Alaska in a most memorable odyssey.

During his military career Bob saw service overseas in such areas as Japan, Korea, Germany, Iran and Vietnam. A proud paratrooper and infantryman, Bob had a career in the Army that spanned 26 years. In early days he was connected with combat units but later his duties were in the area of personnel administration and training. Notable among his interesting assignments was as action officer in Berlin for President Kennedy's celebrated visit to Europe and the Iron Curtain in the early 1960's.

Among his varied duties on behalf of the United States Army, Bob was operations officer ‑ Berlin Brigade; schools and training advisor to the Imperial Iranian General Forces; staff officer in an infantry brigade in Vietnam; and Professor of Military Science at Alfred University. He also served in the ROTC training unit at Rutgers University. Bob's final military assignment was as post commander, Fulda Military Post, West Germany.

Following his retirement in 1976, Bob was employed as area director, Eastem Area, Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency. In that role he was responsible for disaster planning and operations in a twenty county area.

It was on 31 March 1980 when Bob succumbed to a sudden heart attack. Easily could this memorial be ended now by merely quoting that nostalgic refrain that his work on earth is done. But not so, however, for Bob Hetz. His family counts as the great legacy; he bequeathed them his strength of character and his integrity. As classmates, that realization by his family comes as absolutely no surprise to us. For we are kindred legatees of those attributes in our memories of Bob Hetz.

Edward J. Reidy, Class of 1950