Assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division, (from left) Capt. Jordan Martinelli ’07, Capt. Austin Wiese ’08, and Maj. Charlie Magee ’03 (with VT stethoscope) are deployed forward to Forward Operating Base Ghazni, Afghanistan. Ut Prosim! Corps alumni (from left) Capt. Tavia Carlson ’09, a civil engineer; and C-17 pilots Capt. Andrew Barstow ’09 and Capt. Scott Alexander ’07, pictured in front of a U.S. Air Force C-17 aircraft, ran into each other while serving in Southwest Asia.
The Corps Review is published three times a year by the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets Alumni Inc. (VTCCA) in cooperation with University Relations. Gary Lerch ’72, Chairman, VTCCA
FEATURES ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS
Fall 2014, Vol. 25, No. 1
Joe Savage VT’64
New to the Old Guard: A Tribute to the “Rat Class” of 1960
Maj. Gen. Randal Fullhart, Commandant of Cadets
Recollections of Lt. Gen. Howard M. Lane, U.S. Air Force
Col. Patience Larkin ’87, Alumni Director and Editor
Lt. Col. David Williams ’79, U.S. Army (retired), recalls his time as a young recruiting officer on then-Commandant of Cadets Lt. Gen. Howard Lane’s staff.
Juliet Crichton, Assistant Editor Col. David L. Spracher ’70, Director of Development H. Pat Artis VT ’71, Michael Diersing, Randal Fullhart, Kathy Fullhart, Bradley Larkin, Raye Savage, Photography Melissa Richards, Assistant Vice President for Marketing and Publications Comments and all material for the magazine should be mailed to Editor, Corps Review, VTCC Alumni Office (0213); 143 Brodie Hall, Virginia Tech; 310 Alumni Mall; Blacksburg, VA 24061. Persons wishing to reprint any portion of the contents of Corps Review must contact the editor for permission. © 2014, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Corps Review can be accessed online at www.vtcc.vt.edu/alumni/corps-reviewarchive.html. Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. Anyone having questions concerning any of those regulations should contact the Office of Equity and Access. Front and back covers: Photos by Michael Diersing
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Red, White, and Blue: Part two of a two-part series
Sharing their experiences and photographing their activities, Pat Artis VT’71 followed the new cadets of Training Company 1-1 through their first year in the Corps.
Photos from the Heart Award-winning photographer Mike Diersing, a media specialist at Virginia Tech, meticulously documents life in the Highty-Tighties and the Corps.
Cadets Serving in Blacksburg Rescue Cadet Capt. Telemachos Manos, Class of 2015, shares leadership lessons gained as an emergency medical technician with Blacksburg Rescue.
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Cadets Take Advantage of Overseas Educational Opportunity In May, several senior cadets participated in the Olmsted Cadet Travel and Cultural Immersion Program, preparing them for careers as military officers.
PHOTOS
David Stanley VT‘95, Art Director
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Randall Everett ’56
Becoming an Air Commando
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Photo essays of Corps happenings on campus:
16 22 DEPARTMENTS Corps Homecoming
Hokie Heroes
Commandant’s Column ..........................18 Quad-Angle.....................................................23 Leader Development ................................29 Chairman’s Column ....................................30 Recruiting Update .......................................31 VPI Battalion ....................................................32 ROTC News ......................................................34 Alumni Announcements ........................39 Philanthropy ...................................................42 Honor Guard ...................................................46
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Virginia Tech Homecoming
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Alumnus Spotlight
A C-47, with combined U.S. and South Vietnamese Air Force markings, the type flown by Randall Everett ’56 over South Vietnam.
Becoming an
Air Commando by Randall Everett ’56
My Air Force career began when I graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force in June 1956. I entered active duty in October, and after preflight orientation at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, I reported to Spence Air Base, Georgia. After training in single engine T-34s and T-28s, I reported to Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma, to train in the Mitchell B-25 bomber. I earned my pilot’s wings in February 1958, but because I was only serving a three-year commitment, I received orders to attend personnel officer training back at Lackland, instead of receiving a flying assignment. After graduating there, I
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received orders to South Korea as a personnel officer at Suwon and Kimpo air bases. During that year I was required to still log a minimum number of flight hours in addition to my primary job, so I flew a single engine L-20 and a twin engine C-47, which had been used during World War II and the Normandy Invasion to drop troops, even towing hundreds of gliders full of troops over and into France. At the end of my year in Korea, I decided that even though it was not such a great assignment, I would sign up for indefinite status in the Air Force. My next assignment was Everett in his official Operation Jungle Jim uniform. to Harlingen Air Force Base, Texas, where I logged thousands of hours as a mission pilot flying said, the interview would be terminated the Convair T-29. My job was to fly the and I would be excused. navigator instructors and five or six naviHe began the interview by asking if I gator students in the back of the aircraft, would be interested in flying old World according to the designated flight plans. War II airplanes, to which I answered In March 1961, a number of flying “yes, sir.” He next asked if I would buddies and I were ordered to report to be interested in flying these airplanes our commander early one Sunday morn- in combat and in civilian clothes. I ing. We thought this strange because the answered “yes” to both. The following training command normally was off duty question, which did make me hesitate a on weekends. few moments, asked if would I still be I reported to the commander ‘s build- interested in flying in these conditions ing, and inside saw a line of chairs down knowing that if I were shot down and the hall filled with pilots, navigators, and captured by an enemy, the United States enlisted support personnel all waiting would not acknowledge my existence. I to go in his office. When I reported in, thought about it and figuring “what the he told me to be at ease because he was hell, why not?” I again answered “yes.” going to ask me some questions. He I was dismissed with another warning informed me that this was a classified about the penalty if the interview were interview, I was not to discuss it, and if discussed. I did, I was subject to a $10,000 fine, In less than a month, I received along with possible prison time. He told top-secret orders labeled “Operation me he was going to ask a series of quesJungle Jim,” ordering me to report to the tions to which I was to answer “yes” or 4400th Combat Crew Training Squad“no.” If at any time I answered “no,” he ron, Hurlburt Field, Florida, in May
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1961. Because of my flight time logged in Korea, I was designated an aircraft commander in C-47s. Twelve C-47 crews were formed. My crew, three young first lieutenants, was the youngest and at the bottom of the crew-list board. We trained for the next five months, flying day and night treetop-level navigation missions all over the country. We were immune from violating any restricted areas during the training missions. In fact, Orr Kelly mentions my story about this previously classified training in his book, “From a Dark Sky: The Story of U.S. Air Force Special Operations.” We practiced night short-field landings and quick turnarounds on unprepared fields with nothing but a few flashlights to guide us. We flew night missions with Special Forces troops and dropped them over flashlight-lit drop zones. During this period, we attended a “condensed” nine-day, 24-hour, roundthe-clock jungle-survival course. My crew quickly learned to make an assault landing on a 300-foot dirt strip, unload a Special Forces team, then turn around and perform a short field takeoff in a minute and a half! We called this a “crash and dash.” After five months of training, we figured we’d be involved in another attack on Cuba, since the Bay of Pigs attack in early 1961 had been such a fiasco. However, one day in October, we were gathered in an auditorium with an armed guard on the door, and our
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The Jungle Jim Memorial at Hurlburt Field, Florida
commander pulled a big curtain off the wall, revealing a map of South Vietnam. He announced, “Gentlemen, this is what you’ve been training so hard for. This is where we’re going very soon.” Shortly after, four C-47s departed Hurlburt to fly via Alaska and the Pacific Islands to Bien Hoa Air Base, South Vietnam. The B-26 crews picked up their planes at Clark Air Base in the Philippines and flew them to Bien Hoa; and the T-28 pilots had their planes delivered by the large C-124 transports. In less than a month, a C-47 crew went down in the jungle, with one of my best friends as the aircraft commander. It was the first U.S. airplane shot down in the war. In early December, my crew and I were told we were next to take a C-47 to Bien Hoa. At the time, I was dating Sally, a schoolteacher and now my wife; every night I would kiss her and tell her I’d see her tomorrow night or in six months. She had no idea where I might be going. We finally received our then-topsecret orders to depart on Feb. 2, 1962. We had a 500-gallon fuel tank installed in our plane’s cabin, so we could fly longer without stopping to refuel. We flew non-stop, cruising at 130 mph, and 24 hours later landed at Travis Air Force Base, California. I thought we would
Maj. Everett
Sally and Randall Everett and three grandsons
never get there. It turned out to be the longest flight in my 20 years of flying. After waiting two days for favorable weather, we flew 15 hours to Hawaii, and from there we island-hopped to Vietnam. It took us two weeks and 75 hours in the air to reach our destination. During my first two months in country, my crew and I participated in a number of different missions. We dropped South Vietnamese troops over battlefields, dropped supplies to Special Forces units, and participated in several psychological warfare flights, which entailed flying over villages urging people to resist the Viet Cong and to help the Americans and the Vietnamese troops. This was accomplished by a Vietnamese person speaking on a radio with two huge speakers loaded on the plane. We also flew night missions, dropping flares over battle areas where our B-26s or T28s were attacking. One day, our colonel advised me that my crew was to participate in an experimental flight dropping napalm from our C-47 over a designated Viet Cong site. We were told to set up a normal landing pattern when we arrived at the designated area and to descend to about 50 feet, gaining top speed of 170 mph, and to drop one 55-gallon barrel of napalm
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at a time. We had ten 55-gallon barrels of liquid napalm, with an explosive cap strapped on each barrel, and each barrel was on a pallet with a roller on a track. We arrived at the site and successfully dropped all barrels, one at a time. It was an exciting rush after climbing back up and heading home. There’s no way I have ever been able to explain the god-awful scene we created. A week later, we were tasked with flying another napalm-drop mission. We loaded the ten barrels and proceeded to the area. The same procedures in flight were again followed, except this time something went wrong on the fourth pass over the target—the barrel and the pallet didn’t separate properly. A few seconds after the separation, the pallet flew back and smacked into the left horizontal stabilizer of our aircraft’s tail. I felt the shock in the yoke, and the men in the back were hollering at me over the intercom while I immediately climbed to about 1,000 feet. We cancelled the mission immediately, headed back to base, declared an emergency, and landed without incident. My commander surveyed what turned out to be a hand-size dent in the stabilizer. The fact that the dent was the only damage is testimony to what a wonderful old war-
Everett in Korea in front of a T-29
Three old ’56 Hokies and their wives visiting Virginia Tech: (from left) Bill and Mrs. Heer, George and Mrs. Stiff, and Randall and Mrs. Everett.
horse the C-47 was. If it hadn’t been, I wouldn’t be relating this story now. Our commander said, “Boys, this is the last time we’ll ever drop napalm from a C-47.” And for the rest of the Vietnam war, that particular mission was never flown again. While there, my crew and I were submitted to receive a “hero medal,” as they were called in those early days. We were told, however, that we would not get medals since we were still part of a top-secret mission. In the summer of 1962, it was finally announced that our unit, now called Air Commandos, was in South Vietnam, though it wasn’t until mid-1964 that our flight records were changed to indicate combat missions flown while in South Vietnam. Then we were awarded combat medals. As a sad aside, the streets on Hurlburt Field are named for all the downed and lost crewmembers on that mission, and I knew nearly half of them. After twenty years of flying and logging 7,000 flight hours in 22 airplanes, I retired in 1976. I logged 3,000 hours in the C-47 all over Southeast Asia and Europe, and during all that time, I had only two failed engines while in flight. In 1996, I was contacted by a writer, Phil Chinnery, who said that while he was interviewing old Air Commandos
about air warfare and airplanes during the South Vietnam conflict, he had heard something about my napalm flights. He asked if I minded telling him the story. I told him my story, and in mid1997, I received in the mail a book titled “Wings of Fame.” My narrative is in a paragraph titled “Gooney Birds,” in the chapter titled “Air Commandos.” The book itself is chock-full of pictures of airplanes all over the world, with interesting stories about them. It amazes me that all of this happened because of a brief interview during which I had thought, “what the hell, why not?” and answered “yes.”
Class of ’56 seniors in Company A
A ’56 Hokie in Mary Esther, Florida
The 50th reunion of the Class of 1956: (from left) George Stiff, Bill Heer, Cliff Lilly, and Randall Everett.
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Alumnus Spotlight
New to the Old Guard:
Joe Savage ’64 (front row, third from right) with K Company Class of 1964 senior leadership
A Tribute to the “Rat Class” of 1960 by Joe Savage VT’64
This year, my Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets (VTCC) “rat class” joins the Old Guard. It’s a memorable milestone in a 50-year journey that began when 54 strangers were hurled together in August 1960 to form the freshman class of Company K, 3rd Battalion. Our “rat” training began simply with the basic lesson that there were only three possible answers to any question we were asked: “Yes, sir,” “No, sir,” and “No excuse, sir!”
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Next, we learned the of cadets, wrote in The names of our K Company Bugle: “The Corps, by its classmates, the seniors, the organization and operajuniors, and, finally, the tion, by the standards it sophomores. Then came seeks to maintain, and by guard orders, military the qualities it seeks to drills, and the manual of instill, plays a significant arms. We learned how to part in the educational May 11, 2011, K Company ’64 alumni gathered at Pamplin Park in Petersburg, Virginia, correctly drag and how not On process and helps materiwith two guests from M Company: (from left) Dave Miller, Markham Woody, Jess Fowler (M to gaze. And in the winter, Company), Bill Kirkland (M Company), Tom Ackiss, Robert Magee, Jack Roberts, Lew Dillon, ally in preparing its memwe learned how to do these Jim Shannon, and Joe Savage. bers to take their places in while dodging snowballs. the world.” How true! At the end of our freshman year, We were randomly assigned roomAfter college, many of us went on to Company K won the 1960-61 Beverly mates and quickly formed close bonds serve our country. At least ten served in S. Parish Award for the best unit in the through the mutually shared terror Vietnam, two in Korea, and one in OkiCorps for the second year in a row, as experienced during room and uniform nawa, and others served stateside in the well as the Kohler Cup for superior drill inspections, formations, first call, drill, medical field, intelligence services, and achievement. It was a gratifying recogniretreat, and meals. There were suppleArmy Reserve. I had the honor of serving mental training sessions—“Formal Fresh- tion of our hard work and a reflection with two K Company compatriots in the of the great bond that had formed from men Meetings”—in the basement of 27th Combat Engineer Battalion from our training and would persevere in our Shanks Hall, which included late-night 1966-1967: Leon Harris ’64 and Bob downtime for years to come. shoe checks that often failed to meet the Oliver ’64. Bill Proctor, a 1964 H ComAfter our freshman year, our class quality levels demanded by the upperpany graduate, also joined us that year. remained united in its efforts to “distinclassmen. We took with us the VTCC-engrained guish” itself. There was a Thanksgiving On one of these nights, we were lessons of leadership, command, respontrip to Lexington, Virginia, to “decorate” sibility, and pride in serving our country. released from formation and sent scurthe Virginia Military Institute campus, a rying up the stairwell to our rooms. As With diplomas in hand and service trip that ended in near disaster for several we ascended, the lights went out, and we behind us, our “rat class” began buildclassmates who drew the attention of lofound ourselves running up a stairwell ing its legacy in the professional world cal authorities. There were evenings when as doctors, lawyers, Indian chiefs—well, filled with all the backup, spit-polished taps being played on the Upper Quad shoes we had left in our rooms. After maybe no Indian chiefs, but we did was echoed by the saxophone stylings of arriving back in our rooms, we were produce one bull rider!—spies, pastors, released to retrieve our shoes. Needless to Eric Anderson ’64. And there was the builders, developers, CEOs, chief finanaroma of grilled cheese sandwiches waftsay, it was no easy task to find your own cial officers, entrepreneurs, and manuing through Williams Hall’s second floor, facturing, research, civil, and mechanical matching pair in the mangled, mixed-up pile of 50-plus pairs. But we did, and the thanks to a contraband grill camouflaged engineers. Our Corps years prepared us by Dave Miller’s ’64 fake stereo speaker. shining began again. to address life’s many challenges with Ultimately, 24 of our original 54 Through these activities, we formed resilience, discipline, and a drive to suc“rat class” members graduated from the a tight-knit group of young men who ceed. Corps: 11 from the College of Engineerquickly learned to back each other up. We also built family legacies, estabing, five from the College of Science, Upperclassmen would often quiz us on lishing a strong track record for findfour from the College of Architecture the names of our fellow freshmen. A ing exceptional women to marry. Fully and Urban Studies, three from the Colwrong answer would bring demerits—or two-thirds of our graduating “rat class” lege of Business, and one from the Colworse. We quickly learned to acknowlhave been married more than 20 years, lege of Agriculture and Life Science. edge any nickname, whether we’d heard and more than half have been married During my freshman “rat class” year, it before or not, just to save the day for a more than 40 years. And thanks to the Gen. John M. Devine, commandant fellow “rat.” commitment and efforts of Company
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Joe Savage’s cover, freshman belt, and “rat” book remain fond reminders of a valuable Corps experience.
Commander Lew Dillon ’64, our fellowship and friendship endure as well. As I transition from active Corps alumni into the Old Guard, I fondly look back upon the 1960 K Company’s “rat class” years at Virginia Tech, its service to the country, and its contributions to the American dream. And I couldn’t be more thankful to the VTCC, which prepared us to live up to the traditions of those who went before and the expectations of those who will follow. The “rat class” of 1960—the Corps’ Class of 1964—remains at your service, in your debt, and loyal to the principles instilled in us by the VTCC. Ut Prosim.
Cadet downtime, junior year, 1963
Moving furniture into the head
Cadet room moved into the showers
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“Rats” Remember: Members of the 1960 K Company “rat class” share some of their fondest freshman-year highlights Bryant Brown ’64:
and other things, standing in the freezing weather at retreat, and how the sun would melt the shine on our shoes. I will never forget our ‘band of brothers.’”
“In hindsight, what’s most memorable about my ‘rat year’ was my experience of near academic failure prompting renewed dedication and better application of learning skills, which enabled continuingly more successful progress toward fulfilling my education goals.”
William Berry ’64:
Robert Pamplin ’64: “My fondest memories of our ‘rat year’ will always be the loyal and devoted bonding of everyone. On the more dramatic side, I remember clearly our first ‘rat’ meeting and how we were scared to death of cadets Morey ’62 and Wagner ’61, the different nicknames we gave food
“No question, my fondest memory of ‘rat year’ was ‘Midnight Rifle Instruction.’ The upperclassmen seemed to be having such a good time; they were so easily amused. Of course, there was also the time we tossed Wayne Cupp ’62 into the duck pond.”
Lew Dillon ’64:
game will always be a college highlight, but the best—and most lasting—experiences were the close friendships we all built in K Company during our ‘rat year.’”
Dr. George Bazaco ’64: “The whole ‘rat year’ was special, especially the first few months through the holidays. Getting to know your ‘rat’ buddies and the camaraderie fostered by the ‘rat’ system are something I treasure. I am convinced that is what has precipitated our staying in touch over all these years.”
“Experiences like our Corps trip to Roanoke for the Thanksgiving football
K Company banquet at Grant’s Tavern
Freshmen discover their shoes in the stairwell.
Dragging the halls
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Capt. Lane, U.S. Army Air Corps, part of the U.S. occupation forces in Japan, October/November 1945, after Japan’s surrender Editor’s note: This photograph traveled home with Capt. Lane’s fiancée, Marion, a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps, who had served on a hospital ship that transported wounded troops from Saipan and Iwo Jima. Marion would not see Capt. Lane for another 18 months, and she carried this photo with her at all times. Her favorite photo of her husband, it has always been on her bedroom dresser, and this marks the first time she has allowed it to be “borrowed.”
Lt. Gen. Lane climbing out of an F-104 after flying chase for a test aircraft as chief of fighter test operations at Edwards Air Force Base, California, in 1959
Recollections of Lt. Gen. Howard M. Lane, U.S. Air Force by Lt. Col. David P. Williams ’79, U.S. Army (retired)
When I learned of Gen. Howard Lane’s death in May, I sat down to take stock of the loss. I lost my first boss out of college, a role model, one of my heroes from the greatest generation, and a friend, albeit a distant one. The Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets lost an unsung hero who had closed the book on decades of declining numbers of cadets in the Corps and had set us on a trajectory of success that paved the way to where we are today. In the days following the announcement of Gen. Lane’s passing, several of us who knew him commented on the level of trust he had displayed in subordinates and the private manner in which he had conducted his life. That intensely private nature makes the task of writing about Gen. Lane a challenge, and I find myself resorting to relating
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Lt. Gen. Lane and his wife, Marion, enjoying a football game with Jay Jacobsmeyer ’81, the regimental commander in the fall of 1980
a few brief vignettes that I hope will give you a sense of the man. One of Gen. Lane’s first tasks after being appointed commandant of cadets was finding a new recruiting officer. A second lieutenant just out of the Armor Officer Basic Course, I very much wished to return to Virginia Tech. My four years as a cadet had been a great experience. Gen. Lane interviewed me by telephone, and I believe that the encouragement of Col. Marin, his deputy commandant, led him to take a chance on me. On July 1, 1980, at the age of 23, I became a member of the commandant’s staff. I have looked back on this many times over the years, always grateful not only for the chance Gen. Lane gave me to serve the Corps of Cadets a second time, but also for the leadership lessons he imparted. To say that Gen. Lane trusted subordinates would be an understatement. He worked the staff hard, and he worked the cadet chain of command equally hard. At every opportunity, Gen. Lane would tell the assembled Corps, “You have done well, and you can do better.” Always calm, collected, and measured, Gen. Lane enjoyed his work, and we enjoyed the trust he showed in us. At the time, I didn’t have an appreciation for how much trust Gen. Lane had in me. Traveling across the commonwealth to attend college fairs and visit high schools with Tech’s admissions officers,
Lt. Gen. Lane’s three-star inspector general photo (they got him to smile)
I was spending a large percentage of his office budget. The college fair schedule opened in September, and I would not come off the road until November. Gen. Lane had an annual office budget of only $30,000, and every year I would spend more than a third of it on transportation, food, and lodging to get the Corps’ message to high school seniors— that is trust personified. During the summers, in conjunction with the university, we worked an orientation program that introduced incoming cadets to the Corps. Watching Gen. Lane interact with the parents of incoming cadets was a treat. Most of the time the general was quite reserved, but in that setting with parents, his smile or laugh lit up the room. One afternoon, Gen. Lane extended a handshake to parents of an incoming cadet and introduced himself, somewhat informally, as Gen. Mac Lane. The father thought for a moment and asked, “Sir, how should we address you?” The look on Gen. Lane’s face was priceless, and it was his turn to think for a moment before answering, “You may address me as general.” The father took the response in stride, but it struck me and the officers from Tech’s ROTC detachments as funny to the point of having to suppress laughter. There was no doubt among us that he was the general; moreover, he was the father figure for all associated with the Corps.
Lt. Gen. Lane receiving the Corps’ “new” Skipper cannon in 1984
Social settings and Gen. Lane, at least when I knew him, just didn’t seem to go together. I can think of only two such functions, besides those at Virginia Tech, that we ever attended together. In September 1981, Gen. and Mrs. Lane traveled to Shenandoah, Virginia, to attend Liz’s and my wedding. On the hottest day of the year in a little farming community, he was dressed in an immaculate, light-colored, three-piece suit. More than six feet tall, with a square jaw and a powerful handshake, he commanded the attention and respect of everyone he met that day. True to form, Gen. Lane was kind and reserved, and Mrs. Lane and he slipped quietly away from the reception after just a few minutes, but his impression was lasting. The one other social engagement that I recall was dinner with Gen. and Mrs. Lane, Col. and Mrs. Marin, and Liz and me at the Lanes’ home in Blacksburg. I think Liz and I ate our meal sitting on the front six inches of our chairs, afraid of making a misstep. I don’t recall much about the meal, but after dinner, the drinks—Drambuie in brandy snifters, which I remember because Liz was convinced that she was being asked to drink rocket fuel with these two senior Air Force officers—and the conversation stand out. The conversation was almost exclusively about children, which made Liz and me, as newlyweds, virtual specta-
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tors. At the time, both of Gen. and Mrs. Lane’s sons were young Army officers, and I believe both were serving overseas. The pride and deep love that both couples had for their children were clearly expressed that evening. Today, Liz and I are about the same age that the Lanes and Marins were at that dinner party, and when conversations turn to children, I am sometimes taken back to the Lanes’ living room in my mind’s eye. I can only hope we express our love for our children as well as the Lanes and Marins did that evening all those years ago. Time passes quickly, and towards the close of my fourth year on Gen. Lane’s staff, an opportunity to enter on active duty with the National Guard presented itself. Gen. Lane encouraged me to pursue the opportunity as it was the way to a better future for Liz and me. By the close of that fourth year, we had grown the Corps to more than 500 cadets and had restored the regimental band to 100 musicians for the first time in more than a decade. I left my Virginia Tech family—Gen. Lane, Col. Marin, and Joyce Longrie, Gen. Lane’s administrative assistant—for a duty position in the 116th Infantry. I kept up with visits to the Upper Quad, which were always brief with Gen. Lane: “Dave, good to see you,” and then he was on to the next task. When Gen. Lane retired from Virginia Tech and moved to Melbourne, Florida, our visits became Christmas cards, brief notes, and even briefer phone calls. Still, I treasure them now. About two years ago, my brother sent me photos that an Australian Army officer had shared with him. Most were of P-51D fighter planes late in World War II, and all were taken on Iwo Jima. One photograph in particular caught my eye;
it was of tents riddled with bullet holes. I immediately thought of one of the few war stories Gen. Lane had shared. His fighter squadron had landed on Iwo Jima, and on their first night, they were subjected to a suicide attack by the remnants of the Japanese Imperial Army garrison on the island. Gen. Lane made light of the attack, but from these photos, it was clearly desperate combat that ended only when the Japanese force had been wiped out. I printed the photos and mailed them to Gen. Lane with a letter describing the story he had told young Lt. Williams. Gen. Lane’s humble reply was that the event was so many years ago that he had almost forgotten it; and in the next sentence, he invited us to stop in for a visit anytime we were in the Melbourne area. I’m sorry we didn’t get to make that trip. Sir, thanks to you, the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets has done well, and today it is doing even better. Ut Prosim.
At the Pentagon, Lt. Gen. and Mrs. Lane at his threestar promotion ceremony and appointment as the inspector general of the U.S. Air Force, October 1978
Col. Lane, wing commander, 3rd Tactical Fighter Wing, Bien Hoa Air Force Base, Vietnam, after flying an F-100 on a close air-support mission
Maj. Gen. Lane, commander of the Tactical Air Warfare Center at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. In 1975, while at Eglin, Lane was charged with establishing the Air Force’s reception center for thousands of Vietnamese refugees.
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Red, White, and Blue
Part two of a two-part series Freshman cadets Acevedo and Christmas stand at attention during formation.
by H. Pat Artis VT ’71 To chronicle the first-year cadet experience, the author spent the 2013 academic year with Training Company 1-1 (TC 1-1, Alpha Company), sharing the cadets’ experiences and photographing their activities. At the conclusion of the first article, which appears in the summer edition of the Corps Review, the freshman cadets had just completed their first week of training, New Cadet Week. After new cadets had spent the weekend with their families, they returned at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday and immediately noticed two major differences: First, the formerly empty hallways in their unit area during training week were now alive with upperclassmen who had just returned to start the fall semester. The new cadets now had to learn the upperclassmen’s names and ranks and to “sound off” every time they encountered an upperclassman in the hallways. Second, the new cadets were once again connected
electronically, and one of the first emails received was regimental orders, which defined their uniform of the day and activities for the week.
Red Phase The first training phase of a new cadet’s year is called Red Phase, during which freshman cadets have the fewest privileges, receive the most-intense training, and live highly controlled lives. On the first day of class, the new cadets were introduced to two experiences that define cadet life. In the morning, there is formation, during which companies and battalions report, announcements are made, and the colors are raised. In the evening, there is evening call to quarters, a mandatory time of quiet and study. Despite the restrictions, the weeks were filled with enormous fun and excitement. The entire Corps marched to the football games, where the freshmen,
who formed a tunnel for the football team to enter the field, did pushups for every score. Each day, they shared experiences that increased their cohesion as a unit.
Cadets (from left) Pistoia, Maryea, Isaacs, and Palombella enjoying their first football game .
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TC 1-1 descends from the mountain to complete Cadet Meaux does scoring pushups the first half of the Caldwell March. supported by Cadet Christmas.
During the semester, a Gunfighter Panel featured graduates who shared how their cadet experiences had provided a foundation for their military and professional careers. In addition, there were countless service projects, including a dodge ball tournament supporting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, as well as a visit to the D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia. The first 13 miles of the Caldwell March, which commemorates Addison Caldwell’s journey to enroll as the first student at Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College—today’s Virginia Tech—signaled the conclusion of Red Phase. Along roads with fall colors as a backdrop, over a mountain, and along trails, the freshmen strode to the completion of their first phase of training. Reaching campus, first-year cadets were welcomed by the Highty-Tighties, the Skipper Crew, and their families. At the
Alpha Company marches onto the Drillfield for review by thenPresident Steger.
completion of the ceremony, the cadre members were released from their duties.
White Phase The start of White Phase brings more privileges and preparation for midterms. Academic officers ensured that each cadet was on a trajectory for success, and tutors were available in the barracks for those who needed extra help. Home football games continued to thrill and increase esprit de corps. Having become full members of the regiment, the freshman cadets prepared for the homecoming pass in review, demonstrating their proficiency for visitors and alumni while being reviewed by a party that included then-President Charles W. Steger. As the fall progressed, morning formations were held in the twilight. Freshmen cadets reveled in the traditions of “Stick or Treat” for Halloween.
Artis joins TC 1-1 cadets to celebrate the wearing of their “last damn rat belts.”
In addition to each training company’s costume themes, the cadets devised challenges that the upperclassmen had to complete to receive treats. A unique experience for the Class of 2017 was the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Skipper cannon. Homer Hickam ’64 and his cohorts captivated the audience with stories of the creation and first firings of the regimental cannon. Social events such as the Navy Ball and company athletics added to the whirlwind of events that filled cadet life. In November, freshmen traded their white shirts for grey shirts and wore their capes for the first time on a cold November morning. After Thanksgiving, every cadet buckled down for a two-week drive to the completion of the fall semester, with the regiment’s final formation taking place on the last day of class. A snowfall just days before the return of the cadets from Christmas break was a
As the weather turns, cadets dress in overcoats.
CORPS REVIEW 14 Fall 2014
TC 1-1 dressed as “Star Wars” characters for Halloween formation.
harbinger of a hard winter. The campus was closed for several days just before the Military Ball. For a few weeks, inclement weather formations became the rule rather than the exception. As winter turned to spring, the new cadets’ attention turns to the second half of the Caldwell March. Traveling by bus to the midpoint where they had ended the fall march, the new cadets began their 13-mile hike back to campus. While the fall march was a true test of strength and perseverance, the spring march was miles of smiles under puffy clouds on a beautiful day. Arriving at the Upper Quad, the new cadets formed up, facing inward to the “VT.” Upperclassmen in dress uniform then formed up behind them. The freshmen were commanded to turn and greet their fellow cadets. For a few minutes, ranks and last names disappeared as smiles and handshakes were joyfully exchanged. The training company had completed its journey.
Blue Phase Continuing the traditions of the Corps of Cadets, Alpha Company
prepared for the spring change of command. Seniors joined the reviewing party, and the cadets stood at attention as the Corps’ new leaders assumed their positions. At the close of the event, TC 1-1 and Alpha Company marched off the Drillfield as a unit for the last time. After all the challenges of their new cadet year, the freshmen had come to understand that they are only as strong as the cadets to their right and left. During the week after change of command, the members of TC 1-1 received orders assigning them to new battalions and companies. While they will no longer live as a unit, they will be buds for life. On the last day of class, the freshmen celebrated the tradition of “My Last Damn Rat Belt.” The cadets decorated their last white belt with memories, names, and colorful slogans. For the next year, some of the training company members will be black shirts, and others will join the obstacle course and rappelling tower committees. More than a few of them were already thinking about serving as cadre during their junior year. Having been trained as followers, the freshmen are now ready to become
leaders. Over the next three years, they will assume leadership positions ranging from Fire Team leader to regimental commander and will train the next three classes of new cadets. Whether in or out of uniform, these young men and women are now committed to Virginia Tech’s motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), for a lifetime. H. Pat Artis VT’71 is the Corps’ Emerging Leader Scholarship coordinator for the western United States.
Alpha Company reflects on the future during the spring change of command.
CORPS REVIEW 15 www.vtcc.vt.edu
Corps Homecoming Corps Homecoming and the weeks surrounding it were filled with great events for cadets and alumni alike! Homecoming week included a Gunfighter Panel featuring four alumni who shared career and military experiences with the regiment. The Corps’ alumni board met Friday at The Inn at Virginia Tech, and a formal retreat was held later that evening at the new formation area behind Lane Hall. Like last year, Saturday’s weather did not cooperate, so the flyover sponsored by Stan Cohen ’49 was cancelled. The march-on by nearly 200 Corps alumni before the football game was not deterred, however, and every unit looked fantastic. The weekend closed with a very special, relaxed evening featuring both guest speaker Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Tom Travis ’76, the surgeon general of the U.S. Air Force, and the commandant’s update on the Corps and Upper Quad renovations.
Wall of Fame, ia Tech Aviation , tee to the Virgin det Gonsiewski uc Ca . ind on th ati 17 avi d the pace an with a ’60 became the fields of aeros mmander, presented Kurzhals in t Peter R. Kurzhals en em iev mni ach dron co which honors alu bert E. Femoyer Service Squa Ro Class of 2016, the ll. Ha photo of Burruss
Alumni board chairm an Gary Lerch ’72 pre sented a plaque to Rick Monroe ’66, for the board’s outgoing his many years of ded sec icated service to the then officer. Corps as a board dire retary, ctor and
brick ’87 before the Corps
Following their presentation , the fall semester’s Gunfigh ter Panel participants (in batt dress uniform, from left) Maj. le Earn Buls ’02, and Capt. David Lyne est Cage ’02, Lt. Col. Brad Lawing ’92, Lt. Cmdr. Nick s ’07 posed with cadets.
kend: ng Corps Homecoming wee n at the formal retreat duri ’89, and Four Corps friends met agai Dave Fritz ’88, Mike Shetler ’88, ver Wea Mike dant man (from left) Corps Deputy Com Rich Davis ’89.
Command Sgt. Maj. Dan Wille y and Cadet Allison Laclede, tion to the alumni guidon bearers prior to the march-o Class of 2015, provided instrucn before the Hokies’ game East Carolina University. against
a Yam Geoffrey Bond ’83 and Laur Charlie Company alumni at. Homecoming formal retre
CORPS REVIEW 16 Fall 2014
i regiment ready
The Corps’ alumn
to march onto the
field.
C Company alumni were
G Company alumnus
Tom Travis ’76 led his
led onto the field by Frank
Huber ’85.
unit onto the field. on bearer Scott Pearson ’87 and lead guid by alumni commander J. ni board in spring 2015. alum s’ Corp The Corps regiment was led the of n rma in service as the chai Pearl ’84. Pearson will beg
Corps alumni enjoyed the
game from the southeast
stands next to the regiment.
Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Tom Travis ’76 presented a moving spee ch to alumni during Saturday Inn at Virginia Tech. ’s meal
CORPS REVIEW 17 www.vtcc.vt.edu
at The
Commandant’s Column
New Beginnings by Commandant of Cadets Maj. Gen. Randal D. Fullhart, U.S. Air Force
This is a time of new beginnings for the Corps! I suspect many of you have been following the progress of the building activity on the Upper Quad via my Facebook page. Go to www.facebook. com/CVTCC and “like” the page to follow my updates, or visit the Corps’ website at www.vtcc.vt.edu. Rasche Hall has made way for new foundations; and over the course of the year, the first new residence hall will be rising to fill the skyline along Alumni Mall. Occupancy of the first building is currently set for fall 2015. At the same time, the builders have transformed the area behind Lane Hall, on Shank’s Plain. The mobile home has been replaced by a large, multipurpose green space flanked by two new sidewalks that culminate at a new, albeit temporary, flagpole and monuments area. The Corps will form up here in the mornings and late afternoons for the next couple of years. The new sidewalks are also the first installment on the access paths to the new Corps Leadership and Military Science Building, which will be constructed after the two new residence halls are completed. Our expanded staff is fully engaged, and we are now in the process of a topto-bottom review of our curriculum and our plans for next fall’s Cadre and New Cadet weeks. The curriculum review will be aided by a new entity, the Board of Advisors to the Rice Center for Leader Development. We received a tremendous response to invitations made to major corporations and organizations, both
public and private, to be part of this organization that will meet annually to provide both feedback on our curriculum and a widening set of partnerships offering internship opportunities to our cadets. This effort is particularly important for our growing battalion of CitizenLeader Track cadets. Such internships are exactly the kind of opportunities that can lead to employment and great careers following graduation. This board will also include key representatives from the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets Alumni Board of Directors, including your president, Gary Lerch. At a time of continued uncertainty in the economy and a downsizing military, we are keeping a close eye on enrollments for next year. As you might expect, the uncertainty of military budgets has created uncertainty in the types and
numbers of ROTC scholarships that will be available to future classes. Two- and three-year scholarships seem to be on the rise, while four-year scholarships are down somewhat. In addition, because of service downsizing, we expect to see an overall reduction in accessions. How that plays out for Virginia Tech and other Senior Military Colleges remains to be seen, but we continue to enjoy very strong success in terms of our graduates earning commissions by competing well on a national basis. In addition, the Class of 2018 numbered even larger than last year’s entering class. Overall, our retention numbers have been rising, which speaks to the quality of our recruiting and overall program. For those cadets who are leaving the Corps, an increasing number are doing so because of financial reasons, namely
Maj. Gen. Fullhart led the way during the fall Caldwell March.
CORPS REVIEW 18 Fall 2014
the delay in getting picked up for an ROTC scholarship or other types of financial assistance. These cadets would like to stay among our ranks, but are unable to afford to. This trend fully underscores the tremendous importance of our Emerging Leadership scholarships (ELS), which, if available, certainly play a role in addressing these types of needs. Beginning this fall, we are adjusting the ELS payout in an attempt to provide a scholarship to more first-year cadets—with amounts increasing over the four years to reward retention—all while keeping the overall total value of the scholarship the same. Alumni and friends of the Corps who endow and enable us to award these scholarships remain vitally important. Thank you all for your help and consideration as the need for these scholarships grows. As I think everyone knows, the university will welcome a new president this summer. We look forward to introducing President Timothy D. Sands to the Corps and what it means to the university. Sands arrives at an exciting time for the Corps and its future on the campus, and I especially want to thank those alumni who continue to help us with our outreach across the country, the commonwealth, and the university. We’ll be carrying that message of thanks to Richmond as we continue our engagement with the legislature and the members of the governor’s staff.
Greeting first responders who took part in a special 9/11 ceremony.
I’d like to close by publicly thanking Gary Lerch, the president of the Corps alumni board; the members of the executive committee, and the full board for their continued strong engagement and support. It is a blessing to the Corps to have their energy and their insights. In addition, they are working, with Rock Roszak in the lead, to further develop our ability to communicate with our alumni through the Class Champion
program. Class Champions are members of each class who not only seek to engage their classmates and help keep them informed by having accurate contact information, but also facilitate special events at reunions and homecomings. Thanks to all of you. Stay tuned for more exciting news as we continue to ensure that your Corps remains the best ever!
CORPS REVIEW 19 www.vtcc.vt.edu
Photos from the Heart by Maj. Carrie Cox, U.S. Air Force Reserve
Mike Diersing was recognized with Virginia Tech’s Illuminator Award last spring for his dedication to the Highty-Tighties and the Corps.
Diersing preparing to hang his Corps photos for a public display titled “Everything Cadets”
Diersing made the annual trip to the D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia, with the new cadets.
Five years ago, Mike Diersing, a media specialist with Virginia Tech’s Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, was taking photos at the Duck Pond when he was approached by a parent of a Highty-Tighty. The parent, who volunteered to take videos of the band, asked Diersing if he would be interested in photographing the band. Diersing accepted, and the Highty-Tighties are now rarely seen without their photographer. Not only does Diersing meticulously document life as a Highty-Tighty, he posts every photograph on his Flickr account so that families have the opportunity to see their cadet in action. All told, he has uploaded more than 67,000 photos, and his site currently boasts more than 7 million views.
CORPS REVIEW 20 Fall 2014
An award-winning photographer, Diersing loves to capture beautiful, artistic shots, but he is clear that sharing as many photos as possible is most important to him. He explained that even though a photograph might not be considered aesthetically great, it still might allow a grandmother, for instance, to see her grandchild. Diersing, who enjoys working with motivated young people, is inspired by the cadets and is quick to point out that he gets much more from the HightyTighties then they do from him. “I see this as my service,” he says. Not only does he photograph Corps events, he also has traveled with the band for its performances in the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade; the Governor’s Inaugural Parade in Richmond, Virginia; the Virginia Veterans Day Parade in
Roanoke, Virginia; and the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Savannah, Georgia. Although the traveling and parades are exciting, Diersing lists new cadet arrival day as one of his favorite assignments. For the past two years, he has taken personal leave during New Cadet Week in order to photograph as many events as possible. He is also present at almost all band and Corps events, from the formal, such as the Caldwell March, to the informal, such as tuba-shining parties. As much as Mike helps the Corps by providing beautiful photos, he has just as much impact on our cadets. Said Cadet Matthew Pucci, a band senior: “Mike really loves the band and the Corps. This isn’t his ‘job.’ He does this out of his heart, and you can see when he’s doing it that he really enjoys it. When I’ve been
working with him, he’s always interested in what the cadets are doing and asks for explanations or about my experiences with it. He spends countless hours serving the band. Cadet events take up incredible amounts of time, and he does his best to make every one of them, no matter what time of the day they start or end.” Other band cadets have mentioned that looking at his photos reminds them why they chose the Corps and helps them continue during challenging times. Readers of the Corps Review have seen Diersing’s work on numerous covers and throughout many editions. His service to the Highty-Tighties, the Corps, their families, and the cadets makes a difference each and every day, a perfect embodiment of the university motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve).
Diersing photographing the Highty-Tighties
CORPS REVIEW 21 www.vtcc.vt.edu
Hokie Heroes Started in 2006 by IMG College, the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets Hokie Hero program honors Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets alumni who are currently deployed. Recipients of this honor are highlighted during the radio broadcasts of Virginia Tech football games by Bill Roth and Mike Burnop, on the Corps of Cadets website, and in the Corps Review magazine. Shown here are the Hokie Heroes featured during the first half of this year’s football season.
Capt. Darren Zega ’07, USA Herat Province of Afghanistan
Lt. Col. Patrick Hogeboom ’94, USA Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan
’06, USAF Capt. Travis Ireson Afghanistan Lt. Cmdr. Matth ew Butt ’03, US N USS George H.W . Bush, Persian Gu lf
Lain ’92, USAR Lt. Col. Mark Mc Kabul, Afghanistan
A h Warren II ’96, US Master Sgt. Josep Base, Afghanistan Shindand Air Capt. Joshua Petrus ’08, USA Camp Marmal, Balkh Prov ince, Afghanistan
CORPS REVIEW 22 Fall 2014
Quad-Angle
Senior Cadet Commanders, Fall 2014
Regimental Commander
First Battalion Commander
Andrew George
Cadet Col. Andrew George, of Pittsfield, Mass., is pursuing a degree in political science with a minor in statistics and plans to commission in the U.S. Army upon graduation. He joined the Corps of Cadets for the opportunity to receive a top-notch military education while attending Virginia Tech, like most of his family. A proud member of Ranger Company, Cadet George served as Lima Company first sergeant during the fall 2013 semester and as 3rd Battalion sergeant major during the spring semester. He was the top graduate at the 2013 Sachkhere Mountain-Training School, Republic of Georgia, and at Air Assault School at Ft. Benning, Georgia. Proud to serve the regiment, Cadet George is a recipient of an Emerging Leader Scholarship.
Erica Mattern
Cadet Lt. Col. Erica Mattern, of Chesapeake, Va., is pursuing a degree in international studies with a secondary major in Russian and plans to commission in the U.S. Navy as a pilot upon graduation in May 2015. She joined the Corps of Cadets because of the high-achieving and professional nature of the organization, in addition to its leadership and academic opportunities. Having studied abroad, including a semester in Moscow, Cadet Mattern served as the Bravo Company first sergeant during the spring semester of her junior year. Excited to serve 1st Battalion, Cadet Mattern is a recipient of a Navy scholarship.
Second Battalion Commander
Third Battalion Commander
Austin Dickey
Cadet Lt. Col. Austin Dickey, of Virginia Beach, Va., is pursuing a degree in business management and plans to commission in the U.S. Marine Corps as an infantry officer. He joined the Corps of Cadets to better prepare himself for the ultimate challenge and privilege of leading Marines and has learned much from his cadet experiences. A proud member of the Armed Forces Special Operations Preparation Team, Cadet Dickey served as the regimental sergeant major during the fall 2013 semester and as Raider Company first sergeant during the spring semester. Thrilled to lead 2nd Battalion, Cadet Dickey is a recipient of an Emerging Leadership Scholarship.
Tyler Dick
Cadet Lt. Col. Tyler Dick, of Cross Junction, Va., is pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering. He plans to commission into the Army National Guard and then pursue a graduate degree in mechanical engineering, hoping to design land vehicles for the U.S. Army. Cadet Dick joined the Corps of Cadets for the challenging and disciplined lifestyle and the opportunity to serve his country. A proud member of the national leadership society Omicron Delta Kappa, Cadet Dick served as India Company first sergeant during the spring semester of his junior year and is ordnance senior staff. He is honored to serve the great Americans of 3rd Battalion.
CORPS REVIEW 23 www.vtcc.vt.edu
Command Staff, Fall 2014
Regimental Executive Officer Erika Koenig Meteorology, Geology, and Russian Severn, Md. Air Force
Regimental Adjutant William Farrar Classical Studies and History Nashville, Tenn. Marine Corps
Regimental Public Affairs Officer William Chung Marketing Harrington Park, N.J. Army
Regimental Operations Officer Jacob Lovin History Harrisonburg, Va. Army
Regimental Supply and Finance Officer Andrew Neuman Civil Engineering Columbia, Md. Marine Corps
Regimental Academics Officer James Flanagan International Studies and Russian Vienna, Va. Air Force
Regimental Sergeant Major Lyndon Daniel Mechanical Engineering Leesburg, Va. Air Force
Regimental Inspector General Benjamin Bolin Sociology Windsor Locks, Conn. Air Force
Executive Court Chair David Moore Political Science, M.A. Blacksburg, Va. Air Force
Honor Court Chief Justice Brianna Jahn Biological Systems Engineering Freehold, N.J. Army
Regimental Recruiting Officer Donald Rogers Computer Science Culpeper, Va. Citizen-Leader Track
VPI Battalion Commander Logan Mauk Finance and Accounting Bloomsburg, Pa. Citizen-Leader Track
Air Force Wing Commander Samuel McKinley Aerospace Engineering Herndon, Va. Air Force
Naval Battalion Commander Mark Sweet Aerospace and Ocean Engineering Leonardtown, Md. Navy
Army Battalion Commander Logan Rittenhouse Political Science Scottsville, Va. Army
CORPS REVIEW 24 Fall 2014
Command Staff, Fall 2014
Alpha Company Commander Perry Artz Mechanical Engineering Bluffton, S.C. Navy
Bravo Company Commander Conor Cosgrove Industrial and Systems Engineering Purcellville, Va. Army
Charlie Company Commander Joseph DeWitt Aerospace Engineering Oak Hill, Va. Army
Delta Company Commander Matthew Lee International Studies Huntington Beach, Calif. Army
Echo Company Commander Joseph Defilippo Accounting Information Systems Yorktown, Va. Army
Foxtrot Company Commander Kasey Crumpton Geography Chaska, Minn. Army
Golf Company Commander Timothy Rackowski Business Management Nokesville, Va. Citizen-Leader Track
Hotel Company Commander Raymond Pereira Electrical Engineering Virginia Beach, Va. Air Force
India Company Commander Justin Creighan Agricultural Sciences Pittsburgh, Pa. Navy
Kilo Battery Commander Keegan Newton Communications Purcellville, Va. Air Force
Lima Company Commander Garrett Webster Human Nutrition, Food, and Exercise Charlotte, N.C. Navy
Band Company Commander Emily Konoza Aerospace Engineering Warrenton, Va. Navy
Band Alpha Company Commander Preston Godoy Mechanical Engineering Williamsburg, Va. Air Force
Band Bravo Company Commander Evan Forst Electrical Engineering Jupiter, Fla. Navy
Regimental Drum Major Alex Granata Aerospace and Ocean Engineering Blacksburg, Va. Army
CORPS REVIEW 25 www.vtcc.vt.edu
Cadet Matt Weese conducting a joint fire-rescue training drill.
Cadets Serving in Blacksburg Rescue by Cadet Capt. Telemachos Manos, Class of 2015, regimental medical officer When people learn that I am an emergency medical technician (EMT), they almost always ask the question: “What’s the craziest call you’ve ever been on?” For me, that’s a tough question to answer. The calls that are the most memorable aren’t comedic in nature or defined by impressive acts of heroism; they are the ones that taught me something significant about interacting with others in a professional environment. I wish that I were asked more questions like, “How have your experiences developed you as a leader?” or “What unique traits have you acquired with your experiences?” With those, I can shed a more positive light on what we do for the community and ultimately expand on how being an EMT enhances my education as a cadet and better prepares me as a future officer. Looking back, I
can say that my time as an EMT has become an opportunity to give back to the community, learn unique technical skills, and establish the closest friendships I have in college. I first joined Blacksburg Rescue as a freshman finishing Blue Phase training. As a growing leader, I felt that working in emergency medical services (EMS) would provide me multiple opportunities for personal development. With a huge amount of networking help from several of my unit’s upperclassmen who also belonged to the rescue unit, I was able to secure an interview that May. Without hesitation, I finished the basic EMT course over the summer, tested out by August, and was cleared by the station chief to run calls by the time classes had started for my sophomore year. What I failed to account for,
CORPS REVIEW 26 Fall 2014
though, is that I would be propelling myself into an environment that I had no experience operating in. All the classes, studying, and tests couldn’t prepare me for what working in the field would actually be like. Even my high marks as a cadet left me feeling deflated when I realized that being “high speed” on its own simply doesn’t cut it in real life outside the Corps. Nothing substitutes for solid expertise, and what started as a burning passion to dive into EMS soon turned into an extremely humbling experience. While the Army likes to take a “crawl, walk, run” approach to training, Blacksburg Rescue uses a “crawl, run, run” method. After prerequisites are cleared by the town and the station chief confirms technical competency, applicants, or probates, are tossed into a sink-or-swim
environment in which they are expected to direct calls as the attendant-in-charge (AIC) while senior members grade them on every decision they make. No more training scenarios, simulators, or paper tests, this is the real deal. Patients are in their care, and every action is recorded in the hospital logs. Most probates stumble through their first few calls and require help from other EMTs. But just like any technical skill, practice makes perfect, and within no time they’ve built enough experience to confidently run calls on their own. For me, this experience was a huge wakeup call. All the role-playing and training exercises we undertake as cadets hadn’t allowed me to experience what true responsibility felt like. It caught me off guard when I had to turn over my first call as an AIC to another medic. Even though it felt like I had failed all my instructors up to that point, I knew I still had much more to learn. Nothing highlights your flaws as a leader more than operating in real-life scenarios, and I certainly had quite a few
of them glaring straight at me. Fortunately, I wasn’t alone in addressing them. The Corps of Cadets has had a constructive relationship with Blacksburg Rescue since the rescue’s inception in 1957. Multiple cadets and alumni, including Matt Looney ’10 and Collin Hu ’09, were with me every step of the way to pinpoint my areas of improvement and address them specifically. The emphasis placed on education is what I love most about being a part of Blacksburg Rescue. I’m constantly learning new things every day, and even our most-senior members recognize that they have more to learn. We spend as much time reeducating each other through training events and informal lessons as we do running calls. Our requirements for staying certified as EMTs push us to retake classes on skills we may have learned years ago, but are constantly finetuning and perfecting. Aside from refining our technical skills and domain knowledge, a huge aspect of our education is developing each other as leaders, one of the main
categories assessed in new applicants. Every EMT must be able to seize control of the scene at any time to coordinate efforts with outside agencies, such as law enforcement, fire departments, and helicopter transport services. Incident Command System—the doctrine for how civilian agencies interact during a joint emergency response—is reinforced in our training from day one. While the system generally runs parallel to principles taught in our military science classes, its tenets give me the opportunity to apply them in real-life scenarios. Because being an EMT, in addition to being a cadet, significantly improved my leadership education, I would highly recommend EMS to other cadets interested in gaining experience in the emergency medicine field before earning their commission. The training I’ve received in both the Corps and EMS flows together seamlessly, and I look forward to seeing the new freshmen carry on the line of cadets who give back to their community.
Cadet Manos, Class of 2015, standing next to Rescue 51, one of the six ambulance units employed by Blacksburg Rescue.
CORPS REVIEW 27 www.vtcc.vt.edu
The 2014 Olmsted Scholars and the Rice Center-sponsored cadet with U.S. Ambassador to Panama Jonathan D. Farrar (center) at the 2014 Memorial Day services at Panama’s U.S. National Cemetery.
Cadets Take Advantage of Overseas Educational Opportunity by Deputy Commandant of Cadets Capt. James Snyder, 2nd Battalion, 540-231-8595, [email protected] The George and Carol Olmsted Foundation has a long history of supporting educational programs that help active duty military officers, as well as cadets and midshipmen at the U.S. service academies, gain a better understanding of foreign cultures. In 1943, while assigned to China, Gen. Olmsted learned that American military leaders suffered from a lack of exposure and sensitivity to foreign cultures. This experience, together with a lifelong dedication to the security of the nation, led him to establish the Olmsted Foundation. In response to a 2004 petition by the Association of Military Colleges of the United States, the Olmsted Foundation Board of Directors expanded its programming and established an international travel program to non-English speaking nations for “academically and socially qualified commission-tracked ROTC Cadets” at the country’s Senior Military Colleges. The Olmsted Cadet Travel and Cultural Immersion Program contributes to the preparation of future military officers for international assignments and strengthens our nation’s
ability to function effectively in and with foreign countries. Since 2005, the foundation has generously provided the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets with grants for this purpose. Although no program was offered in 2010 because of financial constraints, the Olmsted Foundation expanded its program in 2013 to include Hampton University and Norfolk State University, and sought the Corps’ assistance in launching those institutions’ first cultural immersion trips. Two cadets in Army ROTC from both institutions joined the Corps’ contingent for the 2013 and the 2014 travel programs. In mid-May, Virginia Tech senior cadets and Olmsted Foundation Undergraduate Scholars Hunter Deacon (Army), David Forrest (Air Force), Daniel Katuzienski (Air Force), and Benjamin Welch (Navy), along with Paulina Gochnour (Citizen-Leader Track), who was sponsored by a grant from the Rice Center for Leader Development, represented your Corps, Virginia Tech, and the nation well on a trip to Panama. Their activities included tours of the capital city and commerce port city of
CORPS REVIEW 28 Fall 2014
Colon, the Panama Canal, a tropical jungle area and native community, and the San Blas Island natural habitat area. The cadets, who also completed three community service projects, attended a country brief with the U.S. Ambassador to Panama Jonathan D. Farrar and the embassy’s political officer. Attendance at the Memorial Day ceremonies at the U.S. National Cemetery in the former Panama Canal Zone provided cadets another opportunity to speak with Ambassador Farrar. Upon returning to the states, Cadet Katuzienski wrote: “As an Air Force officer, I will need to be able to work with all types of people. My enlisted men and women will come from all different backgrounds and cultures, and I will need them to all work together as one. My cultural immersion trip to Panama has given me wider perspective of other cultures and how to work with different kinds of people from different backgrounds. But most importantly, it has given me an immense appreciation for where I come from and enlightened me to how privileged I am to say I’m an American citizen.”
Leader Development
Cadets newly admitted to the University Honors program attended a spring reception.
University Honors and the Corps
by Col. Dave Miller, U.S. Army (retired), Ph.D., director, Maj. Gen. W. Thomas Rice Center for Leader Development Virginia Tech has a robust, vibrant University Honors program, one that recognizes high achievement and provides learning opportunities that other students are not generally afforded. Over the past few years, Corps of Cadets staff members have worked more closely with the director of University Honors and staff to encourage cadets to take advantage of what the program has to offer. The first step is to identify cadets who meet the high standards of University Honors and to encourage these cadets to apply for acceptance. Rising freshmen must have a demonstrated record of excellence in high school, and students already enrolled at Tech must have a 3.6 GPA to apply. Acceptance into the program is a great honor, and the Corps currently has 44 cadets pursuing an Honors diploma. To further this relationship, we recently created a Cadet Honors Com-
mittee with the mission of helping cadets understand and take advantage of the excellent resources of the Honors program. This group of cadets is also responsible for planning and hosting a CadetHonors reception, during which cadets and civilian students are invited to hear a guest speaker and to mingle with people outside their own learning community. Additionally, cadets now lead Honors reading groups focused on a topic of interest, and both Corps and ROTC staff members are involved in facilitating the discussions. One significant initiative in our collaboration with University Honors is the recognition of the cadet experience and how it meets the requirements for an Honors diploma. For instance, cadets who attend summer training or participate in an internship have some latitude to count these experiences toward the requirements for an Honors diploma.
This development helps dispel the falsehood that a student cannot be both in the Corps and in the Honors program. Cadets can and do excel as a cadet and a scholar. There are several people who deserve much credit for strengthening the relationship between the Corps and University Honors. Cadet Maj. James Flanagan, a senior Honors student who is serving as the regimental academics officer this semester, was instrumental in many of the important initiatives now in place. Terry Papillon, the previous director of University Honors, and the current interim director, Christina McIntyre, have both been strong supporters of the Corps and of cadets’ pursuit of academic excellence. The synergy between these two excellent programs continues to grow, and I look forward to another year of strengthening these ties.
CORPS REVIEW 29 www.vtcc.vt.edu
Chairman’s Column
The Corps’ Leadership Model
by Gary Lerch ’72, chairman, Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets Alumni Inc.
I had the opportunity last spring to attend the Corps’ morning formation in honor of Tech’s newest president, Timothy Sands. The formation was followed by a briefing conducted by Gen. Fullhart that gave President Sands an introduction to, and an overview of, the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets. Gen. Fullhart did a superb job of explaining the benefits of the Corps and its role within the university. The unstated question that the general answered was, “Why a Corps of Cadets?” The Morrill Act of 1862, which established land-grant universities, stipulated the teaching of military tactics, but did not require a corps of cadets. Many of our sister land-grant schools, especially in the South, originally had a military system such as ours, but now only two remain: Virginia Tech and Texas A&M. So what is the benefit of such a system? Why are Corps alumni so loyal to a system that can be so challenging to its members? I would submit that the simple, oneword answer is leadership. The Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets produces young men and women of character who become outstanding leaders. Leadership is a topic that is intensely discussed and studied in military, industry, and government circles, and many theories exist about what constitutes good leadership and how future leaders should be prepared. I do not pretend to be an expert on the subject, but based upon my experiences as an Army officer, a scoutmaster, and a business executive and my experience within the Department of Defense, I do have opinions that have been reinforced with the passage of years. Permit me to share my thoughts as
to why our Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets is an excellent organization for producing leaders of quality and character. A world-class university: Virginia Tech provides an education that is highly regarded worldwide. Virginia Tech also provides myriad educational opportunities. A good leader is well educated and seeks further education. A real-world environment: Our cadets are not sheltered from the rest of society. They interact every day with civilian students and faculty from all walks of life. A diverse environment: The Virginia Tech community is diverse in terms of race, gender, and ethnicity. This diversity broadens cadets’ experiences and well prepares them for the military, government, and industry. A joint environment: This is not a one service world. All the services of the U.S. military are represented here—exactly what cadets will experience on active duty. A professional staff of officers and non-commissioned officers: We are fortunate to have a commandant and staff comprised of highly skilled and experienced officers and non-commissioned officers who have had successful careers on active duty. They take the training of young men and women very seriously and are excellent role models. Many of the officers have service academy backgrounds, but have become passionate about the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets. Full-time leadership environment: The Corps experience is not just one or two hours per week in a classroom; it is all day, every day. Consequently, the leadership experience is full time.
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Responsibility, as well as authority: In my experience, when one teaches leadership to young people and then gives them the opportunity to practice it and to be responsible for the actions of others, they rise to the occasion. Having authority over a person is one thing; being responsible for his or her success is quite another. The opportunity to make mistakes: No one truly becomes successful without making mistakes and analyzing the situation. Our cadets are taught that every situation is dynamic and that no organization is perfect. Focus on unselfish service: True leaders are unselfish and are loyal to those who look to them for leadership. Their subordinates trust them to do the right thing and to perform in service to others. This is the essence of Ut Prosim. Honor and ethics: These form the foundation of true leadership. Without honor and honesty, leadership just does not exist. Our Honor Code is real, and it works. I do have one final comment about leadership: A true leader is one who can willingly make a decision that benefits the organization, even though that decision may not be personally good for him or her. The Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets’ model for training leaders may not be the ultimate solution, but I truly do not know of a better one. In the spirit of Ut Prosim, until next time. Gary
Recruiting Update
Virginia General Assembly Del. Richard Anderson ’78 presented Emerging Leader Scholarship awards to Kyle J. Hetherington (left) and James T. Earl (right) at Forest Park High School in Woodbridge, Virginia.
Show Your Ut Prosim Spirit by Bill Swan ’66, Recruiting Task Force leader I hope that everyone is enjoying a great Hokie fall and that our recent recruiting successes can be duplicated for the Class of 2019 and beyond. Of the 308 Emerging Leader scholarships awarded for this academic year, alumni volunteers presented at 110 ceremonies in 34 states, plus Italy and Germany. In addition to face-to-face presentations, more than 90 percent of the remaining awardees had ceremonies with family and friends or received telephone contact. The commandant recognized 80 volunteers, including Regional and Area Team Leaders (RTLs/ATLs), other alumni, and two recently commissioned cadet officers. Valuable Parents Club behind-the-scenes assistance included coordination with school officials. Fall college fair schedules included 26 events in Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, Ohio, South Carolina, and Germany. Six of the 22 alumni volunteer representatives were “first-timers.” Most
fairs involve one three-to-four-hour morning, afternoon, or evening session at a single site, but others are multiday events. Please show your Ut Prosim spirit when an ATL contacts you, and try to work your schedule around the fair. We are already planning for the spring fairs. Some key points about college fairs are as follows: No one is expected to drive more than one hour; admissions information is available online, so your job is to point to where those answers can be found; representatives from Virginia Tech’s Undergraduate Admissions field tough questions, such as financial aid, tuition, and curriculum choices; there are no speeches; and “face time” with each attendee is typically about one minute. The Corps’ recruiting office provides handout materials for each fair. Several alumni stalwarts are stepping down soon, so we are looking for ATL replacements in Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, Georgia, and the upper
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Midwest. My own term as task force leader ends next summer, so I am looking for an understudy now to take over in 2015. If you are interested in any of these positions, please contact me soon. Bill Sterling had to step down as Virginia state coordinator; and our Richmond ATL, Brig. Gen. Tim Williams is now the Virginia adjutant general—congratulations! Thanks to you both for your superior service. We also thank George Mallory ’05 and Jordan McCauley ’12 for accepting the Richmond and the New River Valley posts. Kudos to Dan Dick ’70, Dee Morris ’76, and John Cahoon ’59 for their help in revising the Corps of Cadets and HightyTighty tri-fold recruiting brochures. And finally, thanks go out to the Corps of Cadets’ New River Valley alumni for their outstanding support on campus for new cadet arrival day. Please feel free to let me know what’s on your mind; call me at 912-265-7530 or email [email protected].
VPI Battalion
Cadet Mapili, Class of 2016, (second from left) with the family who hosted her during her stay in a Sri Lankan village.
A Global Perspective by Deputy Commandant of Cadets Lt. Col. Don Russell, VPI Battalion, 540-231-0490, [email protected] “Global, Ethical Leaders … Now More Than Ever” is the vision for the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets. Readers of the Corps Review are well aware of the pressing need for strong, ethical leadership in the face of the innumerable challenges of our time. The Corps exists to develop leaders of character to go out into the world and make it a better place. The word “global” is purposeful. Rapid globalization is equal parts uplifting and precarious, and leaders in both military and civilian professions will need to navigate the waters ahead. To that end, the Corps encourages cadets to seek meaningful education opportunities abroad to gain broader perspective of the complex world in which we live. This past academic year,
the Corps put money behind its vision, providing financial support to a handful of Citizen-Leader Track cadets who furthered their education by studying overseas this past summer. A perfect example is Cadet Kristine Mapili, Class of 2016, from Triangle, Va. Cadet Mapili is a civil engineering major, pursuing minors in leadership, green engineering, and 21st-century studies. Here, in her own words, is her experience: I wanted time in a foreign country at some point during my undergraduate career. A fellow cadet recommended the Center for 21st Century Studies’ nomadic studies minor, a yearlong course sequence, offered by the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, which includes a summer study abroad. The course sequence addresses
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a number of topics, such as tradition vs. modernity, issues in international development, governance in the era of globalization, and reading other cultures. After meeting with Professor of English Robert Siegle, the center’s director, I wanted to do anything I could to get on this trip. I was accepted, and we held discussions in class last spring that prepared us for the summer study-abroad portion, a monthlong trip to Morocco, Turkey, and Sri Lanka. These countries, each one unique in its history and vision for its future, served as case studies. We were constantly on the move, hence the “nomads” name. We usually changed our location every three days, from a hotel to a farm house, from cities to rural villages. This movement offered a fresh look at
the unique cultures and changed the way I see my home in modern America. One of the highlights of the trip was meeting our guide in Morocco. He was such a loving person and took care of our every need. He was connected to numerous activists and is changing the world around him by walking among his people and catering to their needs, instead of being a disconnected authority figure. Through him, we are now connected to several activists groups and can help the less fortunate in many ways, such as raising money, creating a Facebook page, or simply spreading the word to friends and family here at home. He was indescribably selfless, and it was very inspiring to see him at work. I remember our time in a Sri Lankan village, expecting a primitive style of living. My cohort and I stayed with a host family for two nights and were surprised when we found our host brother playing computer video games, blasting American rap music
through a stereo, and scrolling through his Facebook page. It dawned on us that in 2014, although the world has been connected on a global scale for decades, tradition is dynamic; and before our eyes was a mix of tradition and modernity. What I valued most about the trip were the many different kinds of people we met, from students to activists, presidents to locals, children to older adults. All of them were very authentic and caring, despite the language barriers and the fact that the media sometimes portrays certain groups negatively. In Istanbul, we met a man and woman in a music shop who played and sang songs for our small group. They closed their shop early to take us to dinner, where we were shocked to find the prices were less than half what we had been paying in the tourist spots. Then they took us to Taksim Square and Gezi Park, where they talked about the protests that had happened last year.
I realized that when you’re traveling, it’s not about the sights and the places you’ve visited, as much as it is about the people you’ve met. Despite a strong cultural barrier, you can still connect, and those relationships are what stick longer and have a much stronger impact. For cadets interested in a summer abroad, I recommend a program that doesn’t directly relate with your major or interests, as well as a destination not frequented by lots of students. I learned a lot about myself and agree with my graduate teaching assistant’s assessment that if you step outside the environment in which you’ve always functioned, you actually see yourself and your world from the outside, and you see more than you previously had realized. I definitely think about things differently now, and I know that what I learned and experienced will serve me well in my future. Ut Prosim.
Cadet Kristine Mapili, Class of 2016, stands atop Sigiriya (Sinhalese for Lion Rock), an ancient palace in Sri Lanka. As part of her 21st Century Studies program, Cadet Mapili traveled abroad this past summer to Morocco, Sri Lanka, and Turkey.
CORPS REVIEW 33 www.vtcc.vt.edu
ROTC News
Navy ROTC News Virginia Tech’s Naval ROTC (NROTC) battalion began the fall semester with more than 270 midshipmen divided among four Navy-option companies—Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta—and one Marine-option company, Raider. The freshman class alone accounts for 115 motivated midshipmen. Virginia Tech’s NROTC unit continues to outperform the other 69 NROTC units across the country in nuclear program officer production and receives roughly 10 percent of the twoand three-year scholarships awarded annually to midshipmen. High academic standards and hard work from the midshipmen contribute to the battalion’s success. The NROTC unit reinforces the values taught by the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets (VTCC), concentrating on the Navy’s core values of honor, courage, and commitment.
guests attended the event, which emphasized the shared camaraderie of the Navy and Marine Corps. The evening began with a social hour, followed by the arrival of the official party, parading of the colors, and reading of official messages by the secretary of the Navy, chief of naval operations, and commandant of the Marine Corps. An official cake-cutting ceremony preceded the dinner. Guest of honor Col. Eric F. Peterson, U.S. Marine Corps (retired), addressed the gathering. After the formal ceremonies, guests enjoyed a night of dancing.
Marine Corps cake-cutting ceremony On Nov. 1, 1921, John A. Lejeune, the 13th commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, directed that the Marine Corps’ honorable service be recognized annually with a celebration of its founding. Every year on Nov. 10, a traditional cake-cutting ceremony is held by each Marine Corps unit to remind those present of the Marine Corps’ many accomplishments throughout its proud history. The NROTC unit’s Raider Company upheld this tradition by holding its annual cake-cutting ceremony at Champs Sports Bar and Café in Blacksburg. NROTC unit staff, Raider Company’s aspiring Marine Corps officers, and several local Marines attended the ceremony. According to custom, the first piece of cake was passed from the oldest Marine present to the youngest, an action that represents the passing on of wisdom and responsibility from the older generation to the next generation of Marine warfighters and leaders. Master Gunnery Sgt. Lance Jones, U.S. Marine Corps (retired), capped off the ceremony with inspiring words for the Marine Corps’ future leaders.
Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball On Nov. 2, 2013, at The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center, the NROTC battalion celebrated the 238th birthday of the U.S. Navy—founded Oct. 13, 1775—and the U.S. Marine Corps. More than 450 midshipmen, staff, and
Capt. Beebe, U.S. Navy (retired), delivers words of wisdom to the next generation of Navy and Marine Corps officers.
Senior dining-in On April 18, the graduating NROTC seniors held their annual dining-in at The River Company in Radford, Virginia. More than 50 midshipmen, staff, and special guests enjoyed a night steeped in centuries of tradition. Dining-in is one of many traditions passed down from the British Royal Navy, where officers’ meals aboard the ship were formal occasions. The event honors the feats of individuals and units both afloat and ashore. This year’s guest of honor was Capt. Matthew Beebe, who retired in 2007 after 25 years of service, comprised of tours with the Naval Construction Force, including multiple deployments around the world. Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour followed by the welcoming of the official party, which entered the dining room behind the
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ceremonial bagpiper. Other dining-in traditions included the parading of the beef, formal and informal toasts, and a speech by Capt. Beebe. Members of the Highty-Tighties provided the official music, and Midshipman 1st Class Jeremy Jorge served as president of the mess.
Marine field exercise On April 4, Raider Company began its final two-day field exercise (FEX) of the school year. The annual operation took place at the SELU Conservancy in Radford, where Marine-option midshipmen were challenged with multiple Officer Candidate School (OCS)-type events in order to build confidence through familiarization of OCS field concepts and procedures. Emphasis was placed on training and evaluating midshipman who would be attending OCS during Marine-option students prepare for OCS with the summer; in addievents like FEX. tion, the underclassmen’s transition from follower to leader was highlighted. All midshipmen were graded on their proficiency in negotiating a land-navigation course. Additional exercises included fire watch, service-rifle nomenclature, service-rifle assembly and disassembly, and hip-pocket classes. Overall, the spring FEX provided excellent training, better preparation for OCS, and enhanced camaraderie within Raider Company.
Commissioning When combined, the fall 2014 and spring 2015 classes commissioned 28 Navy and Marine Corps officers during the past year. The Marine Corps commissioned 10 second lieutenants to proceed from Virginia Tech to The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia, to begin training as Marine Corps officers: Daniel A. Beebe, Kyle O. Cawthon, Philip G. Hiner, Nicholas C. Kastilahn, Michael J. Krieger, Garrett J. Lally, Kevin T. Mulder, Robert H. Plante, Forrest J. Seaman, and Joseph C. Williams.
In addition, the following are Virginia Tech’s most recent ensigns who are now part of the U.S. Navy’s fighting forces: aviator—Jesse C. Arnold, James M. Botzer, Brian A. Fedorchak, Joseph E. Haslem, Tyler S. Manuel, Joel T. Martinez, and John H. Rapp; submarine—Brendon M. Ackerman, Peter A. Addess, Jeremy-Edward T. Jorge, David A. Kramer, Derek I. Oesterheld, Christopher A. von Gunten, and William J. Woltman; and surface warfare officer—Gregory R. Dreher, Daniel R. Evans, and Morgan N. Witten.
Honor graduates Named for the Virginia Tech graduate killed in action during the 1983 bombings of the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, the 2nd Lt. Maurice Edward Hukill Award is presented each year to a Raider Company cadet who best upholds the high standards expected of a Marine Corps officer. This year’s recipient is 2nd Lt. Michael J. Krieger. The NROTC battalion also awarded its annual Chief of Naval Operations Distinguished Midshipman Graduate award to Ensign Daniel R. Evans for having met the highest standards of leadership, academic excellence, and military performance. Ensign Evans, who majored in computer science, has transferred to the USS Gravely, homeported in Norfolk, Virginia. As a surface warfare officer, he will be a division officer and work towards earning his warfare pin over the next 18 months.
Officer Candidate School Bravo-Zulu During the summer between their junior and senior years, Marine-option midshipmen attend six weeks of training and evaluation at the Marine Corps’ Officer Candidate School (OCS) located in Quantico, Virginia. While there, midshipmen are trained, screened, and evaluated by the OCS staff “to ensure they possess the moral, intellectual, and physical qualities for commissioning, and the leadership potential to serve successfully as company grade officers in the Fleet Marine Force.” Midshipman Shane Wescott was recognized for his superior performance at OCS. Maintaining an overall GPA of 94.74 in more than 20 graded events, he was selected as the Midshipman Shane Wescottr earned honor graduate of Lima Comhonor graduate status during OCS.
CORPS REVIEW 35 www.vtcc.vt.edu
pany, which consisted of 238 officer candidates. As the only officer candidate to receive perfect scores on every physical fitness event, Wescott also received the physical fitness award. He earned 300 points out of a possible 300 points on the physical and combat fitness tests and received a perfect score on the endurance course, a 3.27-mile event in which officer candidates perform multiple events in an allotted timeframe. Candidates execute the course in utility trousers and boots while wearing a load-bearing vest and carrying an M-16A4 service rifle. In addition, Midshipman Wescott was selected by his OCS peers for the “Gung-Ho” Award as the one candidate displaying the most motivation. Oorah, Midshipmen Wescott!
Summer cruise Each summer, NROTC scholarship midshipmen spend approximately a month experiencing active duty life in the fleet, a unique opportunity that is often the highlight of their four years of midshipmen training. At the end of their freshman year, midshipmen attend Career Orientation Training for Midshipmen (CORTRAMID),
spending a week in each of the following warfare communities: aviation, surface warfare, submarine warfare, and Marine Corps. The indoctrination training familiarizes midshipmen with the diverse career fields available upon commissioning. A first this year was the opportunity for those on CORTRAMID East to earn their sailing qualification as “Skipper B.” After their sophomore year, Marine-option midshipmen attend Mountain Warfare School or Marine Afloat Training onboard an amphibious ship. Navy-option midshipmen are paired with enlisted sailors during their second-class summer cruise to give the future naval officers an appreciation for the work of the sailors who will one day be under their charge. During summer cruise, midshipmen visit ports in the United States and around the world. Rising seniors are immersed into their prospective communities to shadow junior officers and experience the role of division officers at sea. They observe the day-to-day operations of a ship from a junior officer’s point of view, both in port or underway. Message writing, personnel administration, and equipment inspections are some of the areas that seniors learn about on their cruise. In total, there were 15 aviation cruises, 14 surface warfare cruises, nine submarine cruises, and one SEAL cruise. All participants learned tremendous amounts about themselves and life in the fleet. Well done, everyone!
Staff members performing a mock casualty drill on campus.
Physical training casualty drill
Midshipman Joanna Cruz sporting “VT” pride at 15,000 feet.
Over the summer, the NROTC unit was busy preparing for the fall semester. One of many preparations included a set of drills for active duty staff that revolved around utilizing first aid skills and responding to physical training participants who display signs of cardiac arrest. Capt. Robert James, along with some of the recently commissioned ensigns, acted as drill monitors and provided feedback and considerations for potential scenarios.
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Conducting drills is an important activity that identifies strengths and weaknesses on which individuals and groups can focus during real events. For the staff, the exercise was a confidence-builder in the event of a real medical emergency.
Hails
Fair Winds and Following Seas Maj. Michael A. Little, U.S. Marine Corps (retired) After 27 years of dedicated service to his country and the U.S. Marine Corps, Maj. Michael Little ended his tenure at Virginia Tech NROTC as the battalion’s Marine-option instructor. He served just over four years in this capacity, mentoring countless midshipmen and producing superior Marine officers for the fleet. His dedication ensured that those who would go on to complete OCS and The Basic School were ready for the rigors of life in the Marine Corps. As a product of the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Program, Maj. Little brought knowledge from both enlisted service and the officer corps. With his background in Marine infantry, he was involved in many conflicts over the years, most notably Operation Desert Shield/Storm, Operation Vigilant Resolve, Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom, Operation Asad Wosa, and Operation Al Fajer. In due time, Maj. Little will return to Missouri with his wife, Heather, to plant roots and enjoy retirement. Congratulations! Master Sgt. Cody Pancake, U.S. Marine Corps (retired) Master Sgt. Cody Pancake retired from the U.S. Marine Corps after 20 years of dedicated service to his country. His retirement ceremony was held on July 18 at the Holiday Inn in Blacksburg. As the assistant Marine officer instructor for three years, Master Sgt. Pancake was a valuable asset to Maj. Little in many operations that pertained to Raider Company. Master Sgt. Pancake was also instrumental in many other events in the NROTC unit, specifically involving color guard and other military details. As the lone senior-enlisted member on the NROTC staff, Master Sgt. Pancake was an important voice and was often sought out for his counsel and expertise. Following retirement, Master Sgt. Pancake returned home to Yuma, Arizona, where he is working on a bachelor’s degree. He also looks forward to spending time with his wife, Betty, and their two daughters.
Capt. James
Capt. Robert V. James III, U.S. Navy In January, Capt. Robert V. James III, a native of Farmingville, N.Y., joined the Virginia Tech NROTC unit as the commanding officer. Capt. James’ previous tours include command tours onboard USS Alaska (SSBN 732) (BLUE) and USS Michigan (SSGN 727) (GOLD).
Cmdr. Jay W. Burkette, U.S. Navy In July, Cmdr. Jay W. Burkette joined the Virginia Tech NROTC Unit as the executive officer. He is teaching Naval Science Leadership and Management this semester. Cmdr. Burkette served as officer-in-charge of a combat unit in Iraq, followed by a bonus command executive ofCmdr. Burkette ficer tour at VAQ-129, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington. Maj. Ahmad J. Martin, U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Ahmad J. Martin joined the Virginia Tech NROTC unit as the Marine officer instructor and Raider Company advisor. Maj. Martin served as the communications officer for 12th Marine Regiment in Okinawa, Japan; as an instructor at The Basic School, Quantico, Virginia; and as the Maj. Martin communications officer for 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company in Okinawa.
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Lt. Daniel T. Miller, U.S. Navy (Alpha Company Advisor) In December 2013, Lt. Daniel T. Miller joined the Virginia Tech NROTC unit as the Alpha Company advisor and primary nuclear program track coordinator. Lt. Miller completed a two-month deployment to the U.S. Southern Command Area of Responsibility in April 2012, and a six-month deployLt. Miller ment to the U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility in October 2013. Lt. Robert M. Knapp, U.S. Navy In July, Lt. Robert M. Knapp joined the Virginia Tech NROTC unit as Bravo Company advisor. Lt. Knapp’s most recent assignment was onboard USS Vandegrift (FFG48) as the damage control assistant. During this period, Vandegrift underwent a complete nineLt. Knapp month training cycle followed by an inspection and survey before deploying to Fourth Fleet. Lt. Tony DePrisco, U.S. Navy Lt. Tony Deprisco joined the Virginia Tech NROTC unit as Delta Company advisor. A former Marine, Lt. DePrisco achieved a commission through the Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program in 2009. Lt. DePrisco’s most recent assignment was Lt. DePrisco onboard USS Alabama (SSBN 731), homeported in Bangor, Washington.
Gunnery Sgt. Michael O. Towns, U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Michael O. Towns joined the Virginia Tech NROTC unit as the assistant Marine officer instructor and assistant advisor to Raider Company. Towns served as a drill instructor at Officer Candidate School, Quantico, Virginia, and as company gunnery sergeant at Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron, Cherry Point, North Carolina. Gunnery Sgt. Towns
Farewells Lt. Dennis J. Crump, U.S. Navy In December 2013, Lt. Dennis J. Crump transferred from the Virginia Tech NROTC Unit, having served as Alpha Company advisor. He did a tremendous job preparing many submarine candidates for their interview with the head of naval reactors, Adm. Richardson. During his tour, Lt. Crump married Tarah Crump, and they welcomed a son in March. He earned a master’s degree in electrical engineering and will become the navigator onboard the USS Minnesota. The Crumps are living in Groton, Connecticut. Best of luck! Lt. Adam M. Jones, U.S. Navy After serving nearly four years as Bravo Company advisor, Lt. Adam M. Jones transferred in July. In addition to his dedication to his company and other collateral duties, he earned a master’s degree in history. Lt. Jones’ next set of orders are overseas to Japan, where he will serve as a department head and weapons officer on a guided missile destroyer. Congratulations and best of luck in Yokosuka! Lt. Adam J. Fehringer, U.S. Navy In June, Lt. Adam J. Fehringer transferred after serving for just over a year and a half as Delta Company advisor. During his time here at Virginia Tech, he began working towards a lateral transfer to the medical community by taking undergraduate prerequisite classes. In May, Lt. Fehringer was accepted into the Uniformed Services University to work toward becoming a Navy doctor. In addition to his successes as a naval submarine officer, Lt. Fehringer will no doubt continue to do great things in the years to come. Bravo Zulu!
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Corps alumnus named adjutant general of Virginia National Guard
On June 2, Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets (VTCC) alumnus Timothy Williams ’84 was promoted to brigadier general and sworn in as the new adjutant general of Virginia. As a Hokie, Williams was a member of the Highty-Tighties, earned a degree in management science from the Pamplin College of Business, and was commissioned as a field artillery officer in the U.S. Army. After five years on active duty, he transitioned to the Virginia National Guard in 1990. The VTCC has figured prominently in Williams’ family history. Corps alumni include not only his father, Pat ’52, but also his brother, David ’79, a retired lieutenant colonel; his wife, Cheryl ’86; his daughter, Grace ’11; and his son-in-law, Joe Daniele ’09. Except for Pat, all were members of the Highty-Tighties. Serving the commonwealth is also a tradition for the Williams family. David, Pat, and grandfather Bill all served in the Virginia National Guard; Williams’ son, Troy, currently serves in the Virginia Air National Guard. Williams shared his thoughts on his new role and the foundation he received at Virginia Tech, which helped prepare him: “I am honored and humbled to be selected as the adjutant general of Virginia and stand ready to serve the commonwealth and the nation. The leadership training and character development I received as a member of the Corps of Cadets have served me well in every position I’ve held in my Army and civilian careers, and I’m confident that I can meet the challenges that lie ahead armed with that knowledge and confidence to guide me. Ut Prosim.”
Thanks for the sabers!
Heartfelt thanks are extended to all Corps alumni who donated or offered to loan their sabers to the Corps following our request in the summer edition of Corps Review, which received a huge response. More than 30 sabers for use by senior cadets have been donated to date. After his saber was stolen more than 20 years ago and then returned to him earlier this year, Dr. C.R. Jones ’50 decided to donate it back to the Corps.
The Corps’ first Ranger Company, Spring 1966
Attention, VTCC Ranger Company alumni
Current VTCC Ranger Company members want to capture the history of the company, and they need your help. VTCC Ranger Company alumni and friends are asked to submit any historical information, pictures, newspaper articles, personal stories, or uniforms and equipment from the organization’s past so that a history can be compiled and possibly a display created for the Corps Museum. Any of these items (or copies) that you are willing to send or donate will be greatly appreciated. Please contact Cadet Zachary Stilwell, Ranger Company historian, at [email protected] if you can help.
Mea culpas The following missteps appeared in the summer edition of Corps Review: On page 10, the author of the Gregory Guard article was misidentified in the byline as a cadet. Erin Crane is a senior-year civilian student majoring in communication. On page 47, the pictures of Ernest L. Fulford ’57 and Edward T. Diehl ’59 were transposed. We greatly apologize for this error.
CORPS REVIEW 39 www.vtcc.vt.edu
Virginia Tech Homecoming Reunions for the Class of ’64 and the Highty-Tighties were held during Virginia Tech’s homecoming weekend at the end of September. Celebrating its 50th reunion in style, the Class of ’64 enjoyed an informative luncheon with Vice President for Student Affairs Patty Perillo and Maj. Gen. Fullhart, a moving remembrance ceremony, and an outstanding pass in review by the Corps. In addition, members of A Squadron made a special visit to their old hangout in the attic of West Eggleston Hall. Highty-Tighty alumni participated in the homecoming parade down Main Street, held a fun-filled picnic brunch with the band cadets, and later marched alongside the current Highty-Tighties during the pregame show.
the Class of es representing received certificat o presented certificates were n, three cadets eo wh i ch mn lun alu ’64 ’64 of During the Class ip. Corps Class of Leader Scholarsh Jess Fowler. 1964’s Emerging n Mills, and Da s, rie Jeff d Bu (from left)
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nic before the hom
ecoming game. ni president t) and Highty-Tighty alum ni ident Bert Kinzey ’68 (righ Highty-Tighty alumni pres nguished Highty-Tighty Alum Disti the ent pres (left) ’67 n emeritus Charles Corneliso ter.) (cen ’64 man Huff certificate to M. Eugene
ial gift es, was presented with a spec of , director of the Highty-Tighti monies Lt. Col. George McNeill (left) t) during the pregame cere (righ ’68 ey Kinz Bert t iden dant’s final year on the comman by Highty-Tighty alumni pres game. This is Lt. Col. McNeill’s e 1992, the longest Virginia Tech’s homecoming ty-Tighty band director sinc High the as ice serv his staff, and the gift honors ’s inception in 1893. band director since the band tenure of a Highty-Tighty
The combined band of the Highty-Tighty alumni and the current bandsmen took gave a great performance the field .
CORPS REVIEW 41 www.vtcc.vt.edu
and
Philanthropy
News from the Development Office by Dave Spracher ’70, director of development, 800-533-1144, [email protected] We just finished another highly successful Corps Homecoming—if you ignore the results of the football game. Following dinner and remarks from Lt. Gen. Tom Travis ’76, I announced the terrific news that alumni and friends of the Corps had given more than $4 million to all Corps accounts during the last fiscal year (through June 30, 2014). That amount is 72 percent higher than the previous year’s and surpasses our former best year, 2012, by almost 30 percent. Take a bow and pat yourself on the back for this sterling achievement, but please don’t put your checkbooks away. We have 1,080 cadets depending on us for scholarships and a leader development program that’s second to none. The Saturday morning of Corps Homecoming, we hosted the 15th annual donor breakfast so that the recipients of our Emerging Leader scholarships can meet the people helping fund their educations. The donors get to know their cadets—where they come from and where they hope to go. And the cadets gain an appreciation of the values of the people who care enough about our program that they voluntarily give of their resources to help support it. In the last edition I wrote about our effort to raise funds for the Corps Leadership and Military Science Building (CLMS). Our committee has hosted a number of receptions to spread the word about this magnificent facility, and I’m pleased that we have already passed the 68 percent mark of our goal to raise $10 million in private funds. Our hope is to finish this fundraising effort soon so that the project can move
forward on the university’s construction calendar. If you would like to take advantage of the opportunity to name a space in this new building or want to discuss possibilities, please contact Scott Lyman or me. We have opportunities available from $25,000 to $750,000, payable over a five-year period. Following is a list of donors who have taken advantage of CLMS naming opportunities to date: Nancy and H. Pat Artis ’71 Ray Carmines ’51 Lisa and Greg Godsey ’86 Beverly and Leon Harris ’64 Malinda Sayers and Staley Hester ’64 Joyce ’81 and Jay Jacobsmeyer ’81 C. Frank Jordan ’51 Pat McCann ’71 Lou, Floyd, and Pat Merryman in memory of Sonny Merryman ’46
Renae ’90 and J. Pearson ’87 Becky and Greg Porter ’62 Peggy and Raymond Reed ’57 Brenda and Chuck Rowell ’71 Gail and Reed Schweickert ’63 Fay ’77 and Nick Street ’53 Bill Stuart ’59 Debbie and Bill Swan ’66 Emily and Aubrey Watts ’63
Annual Fund by Randy Holden, director of annual giving Every gift to the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets is valued. Last year, 2,379 alumni, parents, and friends supported the Corps with their personal donations. Just over 57 percent of those donations were for $100 or less, and 84.6 percent were gifts for $500 or less. Each annual gift you make is used to support efforts toward nurturing our cadets so that they
Cadets and their Emerging Leader Scholarship sponsors gathered for a donor breakfast during Corps Homecoming weekend.
CORPS REVIEW 42 Fall 2014
will have the character, values, and skills essential for leadership success in service to our nation. Gifts to the commandant’s priorities account are used to support the dayto-day operations of the Corps and its alumni office, as well as cadet activities. Gifts toward a scholarship fund provide financial support for cadets enrolled in every college throughout the university. Think of the impact your gift will have if you give to your class’s or company’s Emerging Leader Scholarship (ELS). I’m happy to announce the recent addition of Rachel Dorman (rdorman@ vt.edu) as our Corps annual giving officer. She will soon be on the road traveling to meet with Corps alumni. Whether you meet with her, you speak with one of our cadet callers, or you receive one of our mail appeals, please make an impact
by supporting your Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets.
Major Gifts ($25,000 and above) In addition to gifts for the CLMS and operations, we continue to need your support for scholarships. This fall we were able to award every eligible incoming freshman an ELS. We have previously written that we have restructured the program to reward retention, but the total amount of the scholarship over four years remains $8,000 for in-state and $12,000 for out-of-state cadets. We must continue to build our endowment so that we can increase the amount of our scholarships to keep them meaningful. Jay and Joyce Jacobsmeyer, both members of the Class of 1981, have made an additional commitment to
increase the scholarship they started in 2009. Their scholarship is named for Beverly S. Parrish Jr., regimental commander of the Class of 1953, who lost his life in 1956 in an airplane accident while serving as the cadet wing commander in the initial cadre of the new Air Force Academy. Jim and Bonnie Overacre have made an additional commitment to the scholarship that they began in 2009. The James C. Overacre ’61 scholarship supports cadets majoring in a field of study within the College of Engineering. As always, thank you for your support of the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets. If we can help you in any way or answer any questions, please email or call me or Scott ([email protected]).
More than 120 new cadets were sponsored for the fall Caldwell March.
CORPS REVIEW 43 www.vtcc.vt.edu
Retirement Account Gifts: Today, Tomorrow, Forever by Judith Davis, Office of Gift Planning
er during or after your lifetime. a great way to support the Corps, eith Gifts of retirement account assets are larship, your support continfund such as an Emerging Leader Scho wed endo an for is gift your n whe And ues year after year. required to take a taxtion can go to work today. If you are ribu dist m imu min ired requ r you A gift from all or part of that distribution from your retirement plan, you can use able minimum distribution annually tax deduction. receive the applicable charitable income to make a gift of cash to the Corps and gress has not decided ains a possibility. As of this writing, Con A 2014 charitable IRA rollover gift rem charitable distribution), popular charitable IRA rollover (qualified the 4 201 for w rene to not or ther whe 3. that expired at the end of December 201 y donors age 70 1/2 ver under the rules used in the past, man rollo IRA le itab char the ws rene s gres If Con their IRAs to the Virginia option of transferring gifts directly from and older should continue to enjoy the from taxable income and Corps—with the gift amount excluded Tech Foundation Inc. in support of the m distribution. counted toward their required minimu g with answers to freof a 2014 charitable IRA rollover, alon We will post updates on the availability irarollover. quently asked questions, at http://bit.ly/
can name the Virginia cy gift from your retirement plan. You lega a with ps Cor w’s orro tom port Sup 403(b), Simplified as a beneficiary of your IRA, 401(k), ps, Cor the of ort supp in , Inc. tion Tech Founda only your signature, can be ement plan. This arrangement requires Employee Pension (SEP), or other retir this potentially highly taxed t on your lifetime finances. Donating changed if you wish, and has no effec maximize your support to tax-advantaged assets to heirs, can help e mor ing pass e whil ps, Cor the to t asse loved ones and to the Corps. ement assets or if you sor if you are considering any gift of retir advi l ncia fina or nt unta acco r you Consult tax, retirement, or estate planning. are considering a gift that will affect your . Your generosity fund supports the Corps year after year wed endo an to gift Any ver. fore are Endowments —can last forever. to the Corps—today, tomorrow, or both of Cadets, at 1-800-533-1144 director of development for the Corps Learn more. Contact Dave Spracher, or [email protected].
CORPS REVIEW 44 Fall 2014
Old Guard Reunion Weekend featuring anniversary dinners for the Classes of ’45, ’50, ’55, and ’60
May 20 – 22, 2015 Registration opens early 2015 www.alumni.vt.edu/oldguard
The Old Guard Reunion provides a wonderful opportunity to visit with classmates and other Hokies and learn about exciting things happening at Virginia Tech today. Don’t miss this chance to meet several of Virginia Tech’s impressive faculty, staff, and students as you reconnect with other alumni. Make plans now to celebrate with the Old Guard in 2015! View highlights from the 2014 Old Guard reunion at wwww.alumni.vt.edu/oldguard.
www.alumni.vt.edu
Honor Guard
In Memory Lester B. Cundiff ’43 1917 – 2014 Lester B. Cundiff died April 29. After graduating with honors from Virginia Tech with a degree in chemical engineering, Cundiff served in Europe during World War II and later retired as a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. A horticulturist, he enjoyed farming and keeping bees. Predeceased by his wife, Mabel-Alyce, Cundiff is survived by a daughter and a son. Jack S. Harris ’44 1922 – 2014 Jack S. Harris died July 24. At Virginia Tech, Harris excelled and won “Best Drilled Cadet” as a private in the Corps of Cadets. A veteran of World War II and the Korean War who earned numerous medals, he later retired as an executive at Virginia Tractor. Predeceased by his wife, Shirley, Harris is survived by four sons.
C. Allen McClaugherty ’44 1921 – 2014 C. Allen McClaugherty died May 19. Born in Narrows, Virginia, McClaugherty attended Virginia Tech, where he played football and graduated with a degree in agriculture and life sciences. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and later taught and coached football for 43 years in Giles County, Virginia. Predeceased by his wife, Hettie Lou, McClaugherty is survived by two daughters and a son. Edward W. Norwood ’44 1923 – 2014 Edward W. Norwood died July 16. Born in Hampton, Virginia, Norwood attended Virginia Tech, where he was a class officer and member of Omicron Delta Kappa, graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II and the Korean War, Norwood was a successful businessman and engineer and a great benefactor to the Corps of Cadets. He was predeceased by his wife, Barbie.
CORPS REVIEW 46 Fall 2014
W. Sterling Carter ’50 1929 – 2014 W. Sterling Carter died April 19. Born in Alexandria, Virginia, Carter graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in business administration. Commander of the Highty-Tighties during his senior year, he remained the head of the ’50 HightyTighties until his death. After serving in the U.S. Air Force during the 1950s, Carter ran Grassy Knoll Hatchery. He is survived by his wife, Doris; three sons, and a daughter. C. Franklin Jordan ’51 1930 – 2014 C. Franklin Jordan died July 22. A 1951 graduate of Virginia Tech, Jordan was a proud member of the Old Guard. Active in many civic and agricultural organizations, he was a lifelong farmer and avid sports fan and loved to travel. Predeceased by his wives, Anne and Barbara, Jordan is survived by his wife, Jean; a daughter, and a son.
Robert W. Hibarger ’56 1934 – 2014
Louis L. Guy Jr. ’59 1938 – 2014
Leonard E. Ringler ’67 1946 – 2014
Robert W. Hibarger died April 27. Born in Hagerstown, Maryland, he graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in civil engineering. Col. Hibarger was a pilot in the U.S. Air Force for 28 years, serving in Vietnam. Predeceased by his wife, Shirley, and a daughter, Hibarger is survived by a second daughter, Tami.
Louis L. Guy Jr. died May 8. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, Guy graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in civil engineering. He served in the U.S. Army at Fort Eustis, Virginia, worked as an engineering consultant for more than 30 years, and was director of utilities for Norfolk, Virginia. Guy is survived by his wife, Suzanne, and three sons.
Leonard E. Ringler died July 13. After graduating from Virginia Tech, Ringler earned a law degree from the College of William & Mary’s Marshall-Wythe School of Law and spent four years in the U.S. Army JAG Corps. He worked for the City of Newport News, Virginia, until retirement. Ringler is survived by his mother and a brother.
LEST WE FORGET Otis M. Clark Jr. ’36, Birmingham, Alabama, 4/26/14.
Jerome G. Theisen ’56, Loganville, Georgia, 6/10/14.
Joseph F. Belton ’41, Indianapolis, Indiana, 7/12/14.
William I. Parker ’56, Richmond, Virginia, 8/1/14.
Luther L. Trower Sr. ’43, Eastville, Virginia, 7/19/14.
Frederick A. Diehlmann Jr. ’56, Dunkirk, Maryland, 8/9/14.
Alvin W. Dyer Jr. ’44, Richmond, Virginia, 5/27/14.
Joe Ford ’57, Ellicott City, Maryland, 8/6/14.
Francis B. Talbott ’44, Daytona Beach, Florida, 6/1/14.
Simeon A. Burnette ’57, Irvington, Virginia, 8/8/14.
Jesse W. Vipperman Sr. ’44, Ridgeway, Virginia, 8/6/14.
Alfred Meintel Jr. ’58, Hampton, Virginia, 4/29/14.
Thomas E. Gilmer Jr. ’46, Blacksburg, Virginia, 7/22/14.
Thomas C. Ligon ’58, Hull, Massachusetts, 7/15/14.
Herbert L. Duff Jr. ’48, Burlington, North Carolina, 6/4/14.
Ronald L. Thacker ’60, Westerville, Ohio, 8/14/14.
Baynham D. Bruce ’49, Richmond, Virginia, 6/1/14.
Richard E. Horton ’60, Terrell, North Carolina, 4/1/14.
Richard L. Ford Jr. ’51, Gloucester, Virginia, 8/6/14.
Clifford D. Russell ’62, Denver, Colorado, 7/9/14.
John M. Davis ’51, Virginia Beach, Virginia, 6/26/14.
Charles Schultz ’69, Leesburg, Virginia, 7/1/14.
Stuart Higginbotham ’51, Granbury, Texas, 7/15/14.
Sean P. McCarthy ’10, Virginia Beach, Virginia, 6/30/14.
Ellwood B. Canada Jr. ’53, Charleston, West Virginia, 4/26/14.
CORPS REVIEW 47 www.vtcc.vt.edu
Brig. Gen. William Park Lemmond Jr. ’54 Retired Circuit Court Judge and Brig. Gen. William Park Lemmond Jr. ’54 died July 7. Lemmond earned his reputation and his nickname “Whitey” as a blondhaired adventurer, entrepreneur, and good friend. At Virginia Tech, Lemmond lived the Corps life in A Company and held a lifelong affection for his alma mater. One of the great joys of his later life was organizing and attending Class of 1954 reunion activities with the Old Guard. He also served the Virginia Tech Alumni Association faithfully as a member of the board of directors from 2010-2014 and as president of the Old Guard. In 2012, he was selected for induction to the Virginia Tech Aviation Wall of Fame. A fighter pilot for nearly 23 years, flying with the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Marine Corps, and the Virginia Air National Guard, Lemmond was both a gifted flier and a flight leader, making great friends and surviving numerous adventures. After graduating from the University of Richmond’s T.C. Williams School of Law, Lemmond began a law career that consisted of 50 years in the Virginia Bar, 16 years as a Circuit Court judge for the 6th Circuit, and 15 years serving as a mentor to inmates through Kairos Prison Ministry. He also served as a member of the Prince George, Virginia, School Board and on the vestry at his church. Lemmond is survived by his wife, Beryl Mitchell Lemmond; three sons, a daughter, and eight grandchildren.
Gen. Lemmond was inducted to the Virginia Tech Aviation Wall of Fame in 2012.
CORPS REVIEW 48 Fall 2014
E Company alumni Hal Schneikert ’65 (front, far left) and Rich Carpenter ’67 (fourth from left) hosted the 19th Annual E Company Tailgate prior to the Hokies’ football game against Georgia Tech. In addition to E Company cadets, the event was attended by Virginia Tech’s new athletic director, Whit Babcock (front, third from left). The Virginia Tech Class of 1984 held its 30th reunion on a chilly Thursday night in October when the Hokies took on Miami University. Because of some hard work by Scott Pearl, the Class Champion for the Corps’ Class of 1984, the turnout of 1984 Corps graduates was outstanding! Standing with Skipper are (from left) Scott Sturgill (F-84), Jim Hunt (E-84), Scott Pearl (E-84), Jeff Steinmiller (B-84), Jeff Briggs (D-84), Jed Quinn (F-84), Donald Bliss (F-84), Rayneal Jones (G-82) and Lynne Hamilton-Jones (G-84). Also participating, but not pictured, were Bob Johnson (C-84), Patty Fincham Searcy (C-84), Scott Lyman (A-84), and Mike Gimbert (F-84).
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