James German

NO. 17878  •  

Died 28 November 1981 in Little Rock, Arkansas, aged 54 years.
Interment: Veterans Administration Cemetery, Little Rock, Arkansas.


JIM GERMAIN WAS BORN in Elkhorn, Indiana, to Wendall "Dutch" and Mary German. He lived there until attending Tri State College for one year in Angola, Indiana. He earned his appointment to West Point (at large) from Senator Raymond E. Willis in 1946.

No more telling description of this man and his devotion to Duty, Honor and Country can be found than in the 1950 Howitzer. The notation, "Jim is noted for being as fair as he is hard," paints a picture unchanged from the summer of 1950 until he died a short 31 years later. Even more compelling are the words this talented writer penned for the 2 June 1950 graduation issue of the Pointer. In this piece. printed in full below, one finds the line, "that which captures a man's heart is written in deed." And so it was that this graduate devoted his life to making a difference ... no matter the personal or professional sacrifice.

Commissioned in the Air Force at graduation, he successsfully, achieved his wings in August 1951 and in 25 years of military service flew and fought in Korea, Vietnam and other areas of the world.

Following Korea, test pilot duties at Hayes Aircraft Corporation in Birmingham, Alabama, and two tours at Tachikawa Air Base, Japan led in 1964 to his "favorite" assignment with the 1st Air Commando Wing at Hurlburt Field, Florida. With this unit Jim added substantially to the final total of 25 difierent types of aircraft he would fly in his career.

Originally formed to train foreign personnel in counterinsurgency air operations. the Air Commandos grew to an imposing force with more than 6,000 personnel, 550 aircraft and 19 squadrons. There are numerous stories illustrating how the Air Commandos and MAJ Jim German made a difference - perhaps none more unusual than a phone call years later from a Cambodian Refugee Center. A Cambodian Air Force officer and his family, having fled the Khmer Rouge, had made it to the United States with one hope -- Jim German. Today, Chhomdoeum Buon and his family live a free life in America because of Jim's commitment to make a difference.

Jim's final active duty assignments were with the Military Assistance Advisory Group in Lisbon, Portugal, and then as a C-130 pilot and maintenance officer in the 314th Military Airlift Wing at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas. He vowed not to retire until he had pinned his original silver wings on his son's chest, which he proudly did in 1975. Jim continued his love of flying in retirement, piloting with Central Flying Service, Little Rock until his death.

His oldest son, Steve, is Operations Group deputy commander in the 55th Wing at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska: his youngest son, Scott, is a security policeman at Offutt Air Force Base. His son-in-law Jim and daughter Sarah, recently retired from the Air Force, reside in Kentucky. His widow, Cathy German, resides in Washington, D.C.

The Spirit of West Point
By Cadet James S. German, '50

Beautiful words and inspiring phrases are written by professional authors, but that which fills a man's heart is written by deed.

For over 100 years, the accomplishments of men who have gone forward from West Point have written on the pages of history the story of the "Spirit of West Point. "

A man who graduates from West Point feels that he must maintain a standard set by those who have gone before.

He has learned to apply himself to a task with the object of doing the job to the best of his ability.

He has learned the meaning of an integrity which he values as high as he does his Iife.

Be not mistaken, however. There is no automatic process by which all men become models of devotion to "Duty, Honor, and Country", merely by spending four years at the Military Academy.

When they leave Cadet life, they embark on their careers armed with those qualities which they have made an effort to develop in themselves.

Some men carry away that which West Point has given them every opportunity to gain by experience and study; others leave still lacking intangible qualities that they failed to grasp.

Those who have armed themselves well with the tools of their profession will have one weapon which only the men of the Corps are privileged to bear. It is a keen edged blade, forged by duty, sheathed in Honor, dedicated to the Service of Country.

It is borne by those who know the meaning of "The Spirit of West Point."

-By his son and a classmate

Louis V. Genuario

NO. 17926  •  1 Jan 1926-10 Jan 2004

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- His son, Rick

John M. Garrett, Jr.

NO. 17419  •   21 September 1925 - 6 November 1951

Died in air accident over Luke Air Force Base, AZ

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- Clyde Spence and other M‑1 Company classmates

Arnold Anthony Galiffa

NO. 17979  •  

Died 5 September 1978 in Glenview, Illinois, aged 51 years. 
Interment: Mon-Valley Memorial Cemetery, Donora, Pennsylvania.


ARNOLD ANTHONY CALIFFA was a gifted athlete, a leader of men and a truly nice guy. He hailed from the smoky valley of Donora, Pennsylvania, near the plants of the United States Steel Corporation. His athletic ability in high school, where he won 12 varsity letters and was named to two all-Pennsylvania teams, attracted the attention of Red Blaik, and Arnold joined the Class of 1950 on 2 July 1946 as a football prospect. He did not disappoint the coach.

At West Point, he earned 11 major varsity letters in football, baseball and basketball. This achievement had been bettered by only by one graduate and equaled by only one other. He was the quarterback of the football team and captain of the basketball team. In his first class year, he led a football team with a 9-0 record, ranking 4th in the nation. While some believe the game against Michigan in 1949 (Army won in an upset, 21-7) was his finest hour as a quarterback, he showed his leadership best in the Pennsylvania game in 1948. No one will ever forget the final quarter. Army was behind 20-19 on their own 26-yard line with three minutes to play when Galiffa engineered a masterful drive. Army advanced to the Pennsylvania 15-yard line in six plays, with Galiffa completing several passes in succession. With time running out, he threw a pass to John Trent in the end zone for a touchdown and an Army victory of 26-20.

Arnold was named to five All-American teams for 1949, including the Chicago Tribune, United Press International, Look magazine and others. At graduation, he was presented with three Army Athletic Association trophies: one as the cadet who rendered the most valuable service to athletics while at West Point; one as the most outgoing basketball captain; and one as the most valuable football player of 1949. He also played in the East-West game in San Francisco in 1950. In 1983, Arnold was inducted into the National Football Hall of Fame, and in March 1990 he was inducted into the National Italian Sports Hall of Fame, Pittsburgh Chapter.

Arnold graduated in June 1950 and married his long-time girlfriend, Peggy Perdock. As Arnold's roommates knew very well, he had a habit of humming "Peg Of My Heart." But the honeymoon was cut short, as Arnold and many of the Class of 1950 went to the war in Korea. Arnold was assigned as a platoon leader in the 3rd Infantry Division. He received a Bronze Star and was mentioned in the press for throwing a hand grenade a record distance of 75 yards in combat. After completing his tour on the line, Arnold was reassigned to Tokyo as aide de camp to Generals Ridgway and Mark Clark while they were supreme commanders.

In 1953 Arnold resigned from the Army to enter civilian life. He was contacted by Vince Lombardi, who was then backfield coach for the New York Giants. Arnold played four years of professional football - a year with the New York Giants, another with the San Francisco Forty-Niners, and two years in the Canadian Football League. Injuries plagued him the entire four years.

Arnold and Peggy returned to Pennsylvania in 1955. For the next 23 years, Arnold worked for United States Steel. As an industrial engineer, Arnold was promoted to supervisor of safety and supervised the demolition of the whole plant in Donora. The land which ran along most of the whole town and along the Monongahela River was then donated to the town of Donora to be used as an industrial park. The whole street, from one end of the town to the other, is named Galiffa Drive in his honor. Arnold moved to Chicago in 1964 in the law department of United States Steel. In 1975, he was named the United States Steel Public Affairs representative for the Central Midwest Area.

During his years with United States Steel, Arnold was active in numerous civic and charitable activities. He served as a member of the Donora Borough Council for seven years and as president for a year. He was a member of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, Chicago Association of Commerce and Industry and the Indiana Manufacturer's Association. He served on the Indiana Governor's Committee to study solid waste problems. He was a director of the Union League Club of Chicago and was active on the Union League Foundation for the Boys' Club. He was president of the Chicago chapter of the Association of the United States Army and a member of the national advisory board. Later, his sport was golf, and he became an avid and excellent player.

In March 1978, Arnold was found to have colon cancer. After a six-rnonth illness, he died in September 1978 and was buried in Pennsylvania. Peggy and daughter Joanie, a medical assistant, now live in Delray Beach, Florida. His oldest daughter, Deborah Fliehman, is president of a marketing and communications firm in Chicago, happily married, and the mother of Arnold's two granddaughters, Sara and Lauren; Thomas is a sales representative for a wire supply company in Indianapolis.

Arnold was a good father, and his death has left a void in his family that never can be filled. Everyone who knew Arnold Galiffa liked him. He was a happy person and a great sport. He loved his family and his life. We all miss him, but his family misses him the most. Peggy lost her partner, and the children lost their best friend.

- His daughter Deborah G. Fliehman and Classmate John R. Brinkerhoff

Charles A. Gabriel

NO. 17630  •  21 Jan 1928 - 4 Sep 2003

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- Fellow airman and classmate Dick Leavitt

George R. Fullerton

NO. 17417  •  13 Dec 1928 - 17 Mar 2000

Died 17 Mar 2000 in Washington, DC.
Cremated, inurned in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA


ON 17 MAR 2000, the Class of '50 lost one of its younger and brighter members to pneumonia at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

George Rae Fullerton's life began in Boston, MA, in 1928, when he was born to Marjorie and Albert Fullerton. His childhood years were spent in the Boston area, where he graduated from Roxbury Latin School and entered Harvard in 1945 at the very young age of 16.

A year later, knowing nothing about the Army, George arrived at Central Area to join the Long Gray Line. At the Academy, he excelled in academics and in track & field. One of his major interests, and an indicator of his future vocation, was his work with the Radio Club. Upon graduation in 1950, he became a Signal Corps officer.

The year 1950 also saw him marrying Constance Hartwell on 16 June, whom he had known since his childhood in Boston. George and Constance had three sons ‑ Lawrence, Donald, and James; three daughters - ­Leslie, Laura, and Linda; and, eventually, 12 grandchildren.

George's early service was with the 97th Signal Battalion in Germany, where the expanding NATO commitment kept Signal officers very busy. In the late 1950s, he was one of the first of his class assigned to the Pentagon, in the Office of the Chief Signal Officer. Assignments as Signal Officer for the 38th Air Defense Artillery Brigade in Korea and to the Computer System Command at Ft. Belvoir, VA, ultimately led to his role as Commanding Officer of the Computer Systems Support and Evaluation Command in Washington, DC. In that position, he laid much groundwork for the Army’s computer usage in the years to come. It was from that position that he retired from the Army in 1971.

Throughout his military career, George always was learning. In addition to the usual Army schools, he earned two master's of science from Stanford University, one in electrical engineering and the other in industrial engineering. While an assistant professor at the Academy, he did graduate studies in theoretical physics at New York University ‑ while at the same time writing and teaching a new course on theoretical physics and introducing computers to USMA as a member of the Dean's Special Committee on Computers in Education.

After retiring from the Army, George and Connie settled in northern Virginia, where he joined Computer Science Corporation as Project Director for the INFONET Division for the next ten years. In 1981, he became Director of Contracts for the International Division of CSC, working in Saudi Arabia during much of the time until 1984, when he joined IBIS Corporation as Director of Contracts until 1991.

For several years after leaving IBIS, George was a full or part‑time consultant to several companies in a number of technical areas. He was a highly respected and appreciated commander, leader, and coworker throughout his careers, both military and civilian. He was once described as one of the truly outstanding officers in the Army skilled in the field of automatic data processing. George is remembered by those who worked for him for his sincerity, understanding, pleasant attitude, and thoughtfulness.

He also is remembered for his love of competitive bridge; his enjoyment of camping trips with his family, friends, and dogs; and his hospitality at the Fullerton's Virginia Beach summer home.

Ethical values nurtured in George's early New England childhood and at Roxbury Latin School were strengthened during his West Point years. He instilled in all his children a willingness to work hard, a love of education and learning, and a desire to succeed. Three of his children are respected attorneys, the others include a successful engineer and two outstanding university professors. George was fiercely proud of them all.

Amid full military honors and with bagpipes playing, George was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery on 28 Mar 2000. 

William Goodjohn Fuller

NO. 17894  •  6 Jan 1927 - 29 Jul 1974

Died 29 July 1974 in New Braunfels, TX
Interment: Ft. Sam Houston Cemetery, San Antonio, TX


William Goodjohn Fuller was born at Ft. Bliss, where his father was serving as a major in the Calvary. As an "Army brat," "Bill" became familiar with military life from traveling with his family and his interaction with his grandfather, COL Ezra Fuller, Class of 1873, and uncle, MG Horace H. Fuller, Class of 1909. From his grandfather, he heard about Calvary actions during the Indian Wars and, from his uncle, he learned about WW1 and more about life at the Academy. It was no surprise that Bill became interested in West Point and the military. That interest became more focused after his father transferred to Ft. Sam Hous­ton. The close proximity to Randolph Field, then known as the "West Point of the Air," allowed Bill to observe frequent military flights, thus developing a love of flying and a desire to become a military aviator.

While at Ft. Sam Houston, Bill's father retired from the Army and the family settled in Kerrville, TX, not far from Randolph. Bill continued to observe the training flights, commenting about the quality of their formations and his passion for flying grew as he entered Tivy High School in Kerrville. He studied hard to obtain grades that would qualify him for an Academy appoint­ment from Texas. Unfortunately, there were no vacancies in Texas but Bill succeeded in obtaining an appointment from Represen­tative Albert M. Cole of Kansas. Bill then attended Sullivan's Preparatory School to prepare for the entrance examinations. His exertions paid off-he passed all the requirements.

Bill's dreams were on their way to fulfillment but he began to experience academic difficulties at West Point and was turned back at the end of the first semester. Undaunted, he reentered Sullivan's for additional academic preparation. That decision proved to be a wise one and the Academy accepted him for en­trance with the Class of '50. Bill became even more determined to improve his class standing to ensure he would be able to choose a military flying career at graduation. His academic progress al­lowed him to participate for four years as the student manager of Armys championship football teams and to earn his "A" let­ter. He took part in other cadet activities and clubs, experiences through which he developed lasting friendships.

Bill achieved his goal with an assignment as a student pilot in the Air Force and was assigned to Randolph AFB for Basic Flight Training. He was on home ground. Flying was natural for him and he was the first of his group to solo in the T-6 trainer. More significantly, after that first solo flight, he received more good news-his "old flame," Lee Grebe, daughter of COL Alfred A. Grebe, an Army physician, accepted Bill's marriage proposal.

Lee Fuller adjusted readily to life at Randolph and was delighted to accompany Bill to Williams AFB, where he entered advanced jet flight training. The transition to jet aircraft was done without difficulty and Lee pinned the silver wings of an Air Force pilot onto his uniform. Next, Bill attended F-84 jet combat crew train­ing at Luke AFB, where numerous classmates also were under­going combat crew training. That was perhaps the largest gath­ering of the class pilots since graduation, a mini-reunion. Then, Bill was assigned to the 49th Fighter Bomber Wing in Korea, where he completed 100 combat missions flying the F-84. His skills and leadership led to his selection as a flight commander and his accomplishments earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross and three Air Medals. Bill went home for a well-earned leave to join Lee and his newborn son, William G., Jr., before reporting to Luke AFB as an F-84 combat crew training instructor. That was an ideal flying assignment for Bill and lasted for six years.

The advent of Sputnik and other missile flights prompted Bill to volunteer for missile training, afterwhich he was assigned as a Thor missile alert officer in the United Kingdom. The Fullers lived in the English countryside and exposed their English neighbors to the American lifestyle and vice-versa. In 1961, the Fullers transferred to Vandenberg AFB and, later, Bill was assigned to SAC Head­quarters in Nebraska. Although the work was interesting, he missed the excitement and camaraderie found in fighter units. During those assignments, sons Sam and Peter joined the Fuller family.

Bill desired to be part of the ongoing war in Southeast Asia and volunteered for F-4 aircraft transition training at MacDill AFB. The speed and advances in firepower of the F-4 Phantom jet amazed him-that was his kind of airplane! In October 1966, he completed training and underwent combat indoctrination training at Cam Rahn Bay Air Base in South Viet Nam. His flying skills distinguished him as a superior fighter pilot and he was appointed 557th Tactical Fighter Squadron Commander, a prized assignment sought by many but gained by few. Bill flew 100 combat sorties over North Viet Nam and 85 ground sup­port sorties in South Viet Nam. When he finished his combat tour in 1967, his outstanding performances earned him another Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Air Medals, and the Air Force Commendation Medal.

Bill returned to the States to rejoin his family at Randolph AFB, where his Air Force career began. He had come full circle. It was an ideal assignment and he felt as if he had never left Randolph. He enjoyed being with young air cadets and officers, who made him feel young, Bill began to develop health prob­lems that were diagnosed as stomach ulcers. In 1972, after dis­cussing the situation with Lee and the doctors, COL William Fuller retired from the U.S. Air Force.

Although the decision to retire was difficult, Bill adjusted quickly to civilian life and, from his retirement home near Randolph AFB, he continued to observe the training flights over­head. Neither his love of flying nor his energetic approach to life ever left him. Bill was not ready to "fade away." He had more time for other activities and pursued the establishment of a sum­mer camp for impoverished children. That camp would treat them equally and fairly, and give them the experiences that would help them become productive citizens. Bill spent hours writing to likely donors and church groups to obtain their support and financial backing. During one trip, Bill's car left the road and struck a tree near New Braunfels, TX. He was thrown from the vehicle and declared dead at the scene. Bill received full military honors and was laid to rest in the Ft. Sam Houston Cemetery. As the flight of three Air Force planes soared overhead during his interment, one could believe that his spirit had sped to rejoin his Academy roommates, Gene A. Dennis and Robert A. Williams, who preceded him in death many years before. Those three in­dividuals had "escaped the surly bonds of earth and touched the face of God." Their mission is complete and now they are at peace.

- William G. Fuller '50

John E. Fox

NO. 17495  •  6 Jun 1928 – 17 Jun 2002

Died in Trenton, NJ
Interred in West Point Cemetery, West Point, NY

 

John Edmond Fox was born at Ft. Sam Houston, TX, the son of 1 LT John Henry and Evelyn Wood Fox. The family traveled to many places throughout John Henry's career, but Panama, with its green jungles and blue waters, was John Edmond's favorite and the birth- place of younger brother, David. 

When LT Fox retired in 1937, the family settled on a farm north of San Antonio. The boys often had to devise their own entertainment. For John, that meant catching rattlesnakes for the zoo and reading the entire Book of Knowledge. Not only did he enjoy the reading, but he also gained a liberal education that served him all his life. With his friend, John Igo, he co-authored a play produced for the Texas PTA Convention in 1941. 

John graduated from Jefferson High School and attended Texas-A&M University for one year. At 17 years of age, he enlisted in the Navy before the end of WW II. He was serving on the cruiser USSChicago anchored at Shanghai, when he received word of his appointment to West Point. John reported to the Academy in Navy uniform. 

His classmates often heard him singing, "I joined the Navy to see the world, and what did I see? I saw the sea. Oh, the Atlantic isn't romantic and the Pacific isn't terrific, and the Navy ain't no place for me!" 

John had a wonderful sense of humor and liked to tell jokes, but never at the expense of others. One time, during a large combined class session, the instructor asked a question and then called on "Mr. Fox" to answer. John stood, and asked, "Do you want E. J. Fox. " (The other Fox in the class.) The instructor said, "Yes." So E.J. Fox had to respond. A few days later, the same thing happened, but this time E. J. Fox stood up and asked, "Do you want J. E. Fox?" "You will do," the instructor replied. 

Academics were no challenge to John. One classmate recalled that John took frequent catnaps during the evening study time. He jokingly accused him of "sleeping his way through West Point." John just grinned. He was well liked by his classmates. He was active in intramural sports, ran on the cross-country team, was a member of the Glee Club, the Chapel Choir, and served on the Howitzer and Pointer staffs. On a trip with the Glee Club to New York City during his First Class year, roommate Bob Groseclose introduced him to a friend. John was quickly swept up in a whirlwind romance with Jane O'Connor, the pretty daughter of an Air Force officer. They married shortly after graduation. 

John had orders for Japan but in August 1950, with some other 11 classmates, he flew to Tokyo, Japan, via Seattle and Adak, AK, then by ship to Pusan. He was assigned as a platoon leader in Company F, 38th "Rock of the Marne" Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division. 

In Korea, John was wounded twice, and earned two Silver Stars and a Bronze Star for valor. He rotated home in May 1951. Arriving in Sasebo, Japan, he met Uzal Ent, one of his roommates at the Academy. Ent, too, was rotating home. Somewhere, John located a guitar. He and Ent, by way of reunion, visited a nearby "watering hole" and entertained themselves (and maybe the other patrons) by singing to John's accompaniment on his guitar. 

John's most significant assignment was at West Point (1957-61) teaching map reading, astronomy, and geography in the Department of Earth, Space and Graphic Sciences (ES&GS). He wrote articles about stars and telescopes that were published in Popular Science and Popular Mechanics. By that time, the family had Barbara (1952), Susan (1953), John "Jeff" (1955), Stephen (1957), and Cathy (1958). John, with humor and affection, referred to their children as "varmints. " 

John then went to Panama and the 20th Infantry (1961-62) and Headquarters, Army in the Caribbean (1962-64), After a year at Columbia University (1964-65), he returned to ES&GS, earning his master's in 1966 and a Ph.D. in 1969. He completed the correspondence version of CGSC in four months in 1969. 

In Viet Nam, John served as G-2 for XXIV Corps (1969-70), earning a Bronze Star and two Air Medals. While at Ft. Dix, NJ, in '71, he decided to retire because his hearing loss, due to a hand grenade in Korea, was worsening. He then was awarded the Legion of Merit. John became a professor of geography and department chairman at Trenton State College in New Jersey, retiring after 25 years as professor emeritus. 

John was a mentor to students and fellow teachers. He made them laugh, he made them think, encouraged them, challenged them, and made them better for having known him. In 1988, he was Teacher of the Year. He was a member of the Princeton Officers Society, Ewing Township Patriotic Committee, and Ewing Historical Commission. 

After son Stephen died in 1996, John retired from teaching to his study filled with computers, files, references, photos, and cookies, to work on a book that he left unfinished. That project will be completed as his legacy. 

All twelve grandchildren loved grandpa's office, where they always received a warm reception from him and were allowed to play computer games. In July 2000, Jane and John celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. 

In May 2002, while cruising Russia's rivers and lakes, John suffered a head injury. It took two weeks to get him to Walter Reed Army via Finland and Germany, but there was no hope of recovery. Ewing Township honored John with their first memorial service in Veterans Park. 

John Edmond Fox was a well-rounded person - brilliant, creative, and fun loving-who effortlessly pursued his careers with light-hearted determination. He loved his family, his work, his hobbies, and his friends, and he was greatly loved in return. 

John's mortal body has left us, but his indomitable spirit will be with us always.

- The family with classmates Howard B. Blanchard;Jr:, Joseph P. Buccolo, and Uzal W. Ent

George Everett Foster

NO. 17446  •  

Missing in Action since December 2, 1950 at Chonjin (Chosin) Reservoir, Korea.
Officially declared Dead as of December 31, 1953, aged 25 Years.

 

George, "Georgie" as he was generally known, and as "Porgie" among his childhood mates, was born at Cayey, Puerto Rico, March 4, 1928, the son of then Lieutenant and Mrs. Roy M. Foster. Practically all of his boyhood was spent at Army stations, where he always was one of the gang, making new friends, whom he never forgot. From the time that he was old enough to walk, when his mother or father would have to rescue him from out in front of the 20th Infantry Band, at marchIng practice, where he was beating on a cooking pan with a spoon, the environment and atmosphere of Army life was ever complete to him.

Throughout his Elementary School days and into High School, George was an outstanding student. He was quick to grasp and keen at organizing his thoughts, enabling him to make the honor roll of his Class, except for his last two years of High School, at Bethesda-Chevy Chase, Maryland, where he seemed to lose interest. However, at Chevy Chase, Georgie made his closest and lasting friendships, with boys who later remained as close to him as his classmates at West Point. From his childhood, Georgie had a devoted love and respect for the Almighty, his parents, sister and brother, and toward all people, that made him admired and loved by all. He was always ready to accept responsibility and no task was too small or too big for him.

From the time Georgie was old enough to know of West Point, he had the desire to be a West Pointer. When a principal appointment to Annapolis or a 2nd alternate appointment to West Point was tendered him, his decision was West Point. Upon graduation from High School, Georgie entered Sullivan's Preparatory School, and under Sully he really found himself. He stood very high on the Presidential List, and through West Point, no one meant more to George than Sully. Georgie, in his devoted love for West Point, and toward his brother, Bob, hoped that Bob would be able to prepare under Sully and make the Point. With Bob's entering in the Class of '58, through Congressman Herlung of Florida, after the briefest of preparation under Sully, it seemed a miracle through earnest prayers. Georgie was able to take the Point in stride and beyond doubt lived it as the four greatest years of his life, graduating with a very fine record. His class standing enabled him his choice of branch, and with his roommate, Larry Birk, who stood very high in the Class, they chose the Cavalry (Armor).

Graduation leave was a heavily occupied and delightful period for George, attending classmates' weddings, helping his mother and Bob to settle near Washington, D. C., after their sailing orders to Japan had been canceled, and visiting at San Antonio with his roommate, Falkner Heard, and Falkner's parents, Colonel and Mrs. Falkner Heard. During his cadet life, Georgie really felt that his second home was with Colonel and Mrs. Heard. George's original assignment orders upon graduation were to Europe, but, with his father being stationed in Japan, his orders were changed to the Far East. This had pleased him, as he planned to accompany his mother and Bob to the West Coast and then hoped to sail concurrently with them to Japan, stopping over to visit with his other roommate, Larry Birk, and Larry's parents at Klamath Falls, Oregon. With the war breaking in Korea, the planned voyage to Japan was canceled, and George, with classmates, was flown from Camp Stoneman via Alaska into Japan.

Upon reaching Japan, George was assigned to the 7th Division, then in the embarking phase for the Inchon Landing. At this time, he was assigned to Company C, 32d Infantry. Although he regretted having to replace the sabers with crossed rifles he felt that basically he was better qualifed for combat duty in the Infantry than with Armor.

 

Letters to his parents from officers of his unit - Regimental Commander, Company Commander, and others – said that Georgie performed remarkably as a leader in combat, that he repreesented the true ideals and traditions of West Point, and that his father and mother could be proud to call him "Son". Among associates who knew of him in combat, it was said that he was liked and admired to the highest by all. At the battle of Seoul, he was given a platoon and, after one month of duty, was recommended for promotion by his Company Commander, but the promotion was held up in accordance with the policy requiring completion of six months' commissioned service before the promotion could be made. Georgie's last letter to his father, written on the 28th of November 1950, at the Chonjin (Chosin) Reservoir, seemed to reveal him as in high spirits, and he said was counting the days until he could be back in Japan with his mother, Bob, and father.

Other than the report of his M.I.A. status as of 2 December 1951, no information has been found, except that he had been wounded in an arm on 1 December 1950, and, on 2 December 1950, had led his platoon down a steep cliff into a valley or canyon to break a road block. With the Department of the Army notifying his parents of his presumed death as of 31 December 1953. It may be said, true to the traditions of West Point, that George's duty and honor in battle are worthy of the highest tribute, "Well Done".

- R.M.F.

James Frank Fooshe III

NO. 17920  •  

Died 23 November 1976 in Arlington, Virginia, aged 48 years.
Interment: West Point Cemetery, West Point, New York


KIND, CONSIDERATE, GENTLEMANLY, best describe Jim Fooshe who passed away after a valiant ten month battle with cancer. We admire his courage and his quest to deepen his spiritual strength as he prepared to return to his Heavenly Father. We cherish the memory of his great love and concern for his family, which made it so hard for those close to him to let him go.

His life was one of service with integrity. He was competitive, always striving to achieve, to excel and win, but never at the expense of someone else. He was always aware and considerate of those around him. Jim was born in Washington, D.C., graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1946, and attended Bullis Prep School.

At the Academy Jim played lacrosse and excelled in all intramural athletics. He was known for his love of outdoor activities and physical fitness. Later, skiing, golf and tennis would keep him mentally and physically fit.

His service record was filled with exciting assignments and experience, including service with the 6th Infantry Regiment in Berlin, with the 351st Infantry Regiment in Trieste and a tour of duty with the "Old Guard," 3d Infantry at Fort Myers. As a result of his outstanding performance of duty, he was selected as a White House Social Aide. His open hospitality, gracious manner, and sense of propriety served him well during his service at the White House.

Following his active duty, Jim left the service in 1956 to do graduate work at American University and begin a new career in mortgage banking. At the same time, he maintained his interest and affiliation with the Army by serving in the reserves.

At Weaver Brothers Mortgage Bankers and Realtors of Washington, D.C., he became assistant vice president and key executive of the Income Properties Section. At the time of his illness, he was a real estate appraiser associated with Howard Brock Realty Company of Arlington. He was a member of the American Society of Appraisers, the Society of Real Estate Appraisers, and an associate member of the Washington Board of Realtors.

In the Reserve he attained the rank of colonel. His last assignment from 1975 until his illness and death was Military Academy Liaison Officer for the Washington, D.C. region responsible for Academy recruiting to which he was truly dedicated.

Since his marriage in 1966, Jim has had Macon at his side, sharing the good times and the bad and being a strong hand during the past months of his illness. Jim also is survived by daughter, Ann Carter, age 8, and son, James Cabell, age 6, and his sister, Mary Francis Featherstone of Rockville, Maryland.

The finest things are not ended by death. Jim lived a good life, filled with generosity and love of family and friends; his influence, his example and his principles will remain alive in his children, family and others fortunate enough to have known him.

-His Friends

Allan S. Flynn

NO. 17760  •  30 Jun 1928 - 25 Dec 2000

Died in Mount Pleasant, SC
Interred in Memorial Gardens, Mount Pleasant, SC


Allan Sarsfield Flynn dedicated his life to the Army and to serving his country. Following in the footsteps of his father, a veteran of both world wars, and his older brother, a WWII veteran, Allan entered West Point in 1946. Thirty two years later, he retired to South Carolina with his love for the Army, his zeal for service, and his sense of humor all still intact.

Allan was born and raised in Gardner, MA, a small mill town in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains. During his senior year at Gardner High School, he captained the football team, representing a team and city full of spirit and pride. After his high school graduation in 1946, he entered West Point later that summer. From an early age, he had always wanted to dedicate his life to serving his country in the armed forces.

On 10 Jun 1950, four days after his West Point graduation, Allan married Irene Crand, his high school sweetheart. They had a three year honeymoon, as he put it, with the "Big Red One" in Germany. While there, he became a father with the birth of their first son, Michael. Allan returned to the States for a three year tour at Ft. Benning, home of the Infantry, where, to use his own words, he taught and was taught, earning both his jump wings and his Ranger tab along the way. Their second son, Stephen, was born during the Ft. Benning tour.

After the Advanced Course in 1956, Allan was separated from his family for the first of three times, serving an 18 month tour in Korea as a company commander. Upon his return to the United States, he joined the 101st Airborne Division at Ft. Campbell. Allan served in the 501st Battalion, and he proudly spoke of its heritage as the first paratrooper battalion during WWII. In 1959, Allan was assigned to serve as an assistant professor of military science at the Ogontz campus of Penn State University. Their third son, David, joined the family in 1961.

In 1962, Allan attended Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth. He graduated in 1963 and the family then headed overseas again for three years in Naples, Italy. There he served in the headquarters of the Armed Forces South Europe. While in Naples, Allan first became involved with the Boy Scouts, serving as a troop scoutmaster. He would continue his volunteer work with the Boy Scouts off and on for the next 15 years, later earning the Boy Scout’s prestigious Silver Beaver Award. Back in the States in 1966, he joined Ft. Riley’s 9th Division as a brigade executive officer during their preparation for duty in Viet Nam. In December 1966, the division sailed for Viet Nam and, shortly thereafter, Allan assumed command of the 5th Battalion, 60th Infantry. His performance in the division earned him a Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, and countless Air Medals.

He returned home in 1967, with a parcel of war stories that he freely shared throughout the rest of his life. He began a two year tour with Office of the Chief of Staff of the Army, earning a second Legion of Merit. From DC he traveled to Newport, RI, to attend the Naval War College, concurrently earning a master's degree in international affairs from George Washington University.

His next assignment was for two years at Headquarters, Continental Army Command, at Ft. Monroe, VA. In 1972, Allan returned to Viet Nam, where he served in Headquarters, Military Assistance Command, and earned a third Legion of Merit, as well as the Joint Service Commendation Medal. In 1973, Allan brought his experience back to Ft. Bragg, NC, in the XVIIII Airborne Corps, first in Headquarters, then as Corps G 4, and finally, in 1977, as deputy chief of staff.

In 1978, Allan retired as a colonel after nearly 30 years of commissioned service at home and abroad, and headed to Mount Pleasant, SC. Not content to sit around the house telling war stories, he became the general manager of the South Carolina facility of Connecticut based Target industries, which manufactured and installed chair lifts and driving devices for the handicapped. He later earned a real estate license and worked briefly for Max Hill Realtors.

In 1986, he was honored to become a grandfather, a title he carried as proudly as his military titles. Although he accepted full retirement in 1993, he was not content to be idle and volunteered his time at the Naval Hospital in Charleston, as a tutor in an adult literacy program, and on the homeowners association board. He loved tennis and walks on the beach near his Mount Pleasant home and was an avid reader, loved crossword puzzles, took a strong interest in Republican Party politics, and maintained a life long love of opera and poetry.

After a series of physical setbacks, Allan died on Christmas Day. His wife, Irene; sons Michael, Stephen, and David; and grandchildren Joe, Tim, Maggie, Georgia, and Troy survive him.

Allan was proud to have served his country. He willingly endured the rigors and necessary sacrifices of an Army career because he believed in a common good. Those who knew him will remember him as a soldier always.

-- Son David Flynn

Robert Francis Flinn

NO. 17435  •  

Died 9 October 1951 at Tokyo Army Hospital, Japan, aged 26 years.
Interment: West Point Cemetery, West Point, New York


"Hail to thee blythe spirit ..."

FLINN DID WHAT HE COULD to CONFORM to the constraints and trivia of this world. He succeeded reasonably well most of the time, but not so well that we failed to recognize that he was one of the unchained, a spirit both to enjoy and to be our inspiration. Whether we were found unworthy or in fact his mission had been accomplished, too soon it seemed he was taken away from us.

Bob seemed to have unlimited compassion and ability to love. And his weakness, if it could be called one, was a constant craving for affection. Bob dated many girls, but tended to perplex them when they found they could neither understand nor possess him.

Bob was the poet who would climb a cliff to present a flower to a girl - his, yours or mine, no matter as long as he thought she might appreciate it.

Bob was the scientist who was conversant with cybernetics when the rest of us had little idea how to spell it, much less what the term meant. Bob was a mathematician, an artist, an engineer, a philosopher, a teacher, a wanderer, a thinker, and a doer. His thinking was original, objective, non-conforming, and completely moral.

Money, achievement, and recognition meant little to him; there was too much to do, to feel, to express. Curious, perhaps, in such a one, duty was respected as a trust to be discharged in all seriousness.

Almost as might have been expected, his was not the hero's death or a splendid gesture with obvious meaning. Bob was, however, very much a casualty of the Korean War. Bob contracted hemorrhagic fever and was sent to a hospital not far from Seoul. By the most remote chance Bob heard and recognized my voice as I happened to step into his ward to inquire my way on an infrequent visit to the hospital. We were able to share cokes and ice cream and hope. That hope soared when he was transferred to Japan while I was away on a trip. The shock and sorrow were profound when news of his death reached me weeks later.

For years it was hard to accept that there was no more Bob Flinn, and impossible to say so in writing. And perhaps I am not alone among those who counted themselves as Bob's friends in thinking that we have a plus going for us because we knew him.

- R.R.W.

William Thrower Fitts III

NO. 17874  •  

Died 30 July 1964 at Walter Reed General Hospital, Washington, D.C., aged 37 years.
Interment; Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia

 

Born on an Army Post in Hawaii, Major Fitts was brought up in the Army. He not only lived in it, but after entering West Point in 1946, he lived for it. He believed in the Army and was devoted to its improvement.

He was a big man, mentally and physically. He loved a challenge, the bigger the better. On graduating frorn West Point he asked for assignment to a paratroop unit and served with it until he was sent to Korea in 1951. There he commanded a rifle platoon in combat, much of the time on outpost duty. For leading his platoon on a successful raid behind enemy lines he was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action. Later he commanded a rifle company, and received the Bronze Star Medal for making it a well coordinated, highly effective fighting team."

Years later he said of this difficult and demanding service that he had enjoyed all of it. Truly he was a soldier.

After Korea he was assigned to the Infantry School as an instructor. By hard work he soon acquired the necessary background and speaking ability to do, in the words of his department head, 'a superior job in his teaching."

At the end of his tour at Fort Benning he volunteered for Ranger training and graduated near the top of his class from that strenuous course.

After an overseas tour in Panama and Puerto Rico, Major Fitts was sent to Fort Rucker for training as an army aviator. He had always wanted to fly military airplanes, but his eyes had not been up to the high standards required. By dint of hard physical training he was finally able to pass the eye test and soon had won his wings. He also qualified as a helicopter pilot, and during the last months of his service, although suffering from what was later found to be a fatal illness, he insisted on completing a course which qualified him to fly multiple engine aircraft.

Major Fitts rendered outstanding service as a staff officer at the Army Aviation Center. His last assignment there was as executive officer for the Director of Instructions. This was a lieutenant colonel's position and according to his commanding officer, Bill Fitts was selected over others senior to him because of his proven ability, and he 'achieved unusual results not normally expected of an officer of his rank."

He had deep and sincere beliefs in matters of morals and religion. He despised sham and pretense and did not hesitate to point them out when it was appropriate. At all other times he was most considerate of those with whom he came in contact. His Bronze Star citation states in part. "His amiable personality and keen sense of fairness, coupled with his outstanding leadership, heightened the morale of the men and inspired them with confidence and the desire to perform their duties to the utmost of their abilities."

Even in his short career he showed an outstanding ability as a professional officer. That his personal character and beliefs were also outstanding, let this excerpt from a letter written by an associate who knew him well, testify: "Bill was, as you know, a man of the greatest courage, tremendous determination and righteous convictions. In my book he had no small points. His outlook on life I shall remember always as one of the most wholesome and straightforward I have ever known."

Major Fitts is survived by his wife Ella, a daughter Sherry, a son William, his parents, Brigadier General (Ret) and Mrs. William T. Fitts Jr., a sister Betty Jean, and a brother Robert.

- His Father

James Hoover Fette

NO. 17955  •  24 February 1929 – 11 June 1988

Died 11 June 1988 in Columbia, MD, aged 59
Interment: Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA


THE SECOND OF TWO children of James B. and Hazel Dell Johnson Fette, James H. Fette was born on 24 February 1929 and grew up in the small eastern Ohio town of Dennison, where he attended a one-room schoolhouse.

At the time of his graduation from high school, he was 16 years old - having skipped two grades - and too young to enter West Point even though he had received a Congressional appointment. The following fall he entered Millard's Military Preparatory School in Washington, DC, and a year later entered the Academy.

Jim was a member of Company D-1 and earned his nickname "Kismet' from his roommates. The origin of this name is shrouded in great mystery. Known for his sense of humor and caring ways, he was fond of all his Academy classmates. When his roommates Ed Bell and Harold "Red" McCoy died, he was deeply grief stricken by their passing.

Commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Signal Corps upon graduation, Jim and his new bride, high school sweetheart Margaret A. "Peg" Arthurs, of Uhrichsville, OH, headed off to his first duty station in Ft. Lewis, WA.

Throughout his 23-year military career, Jim served at 12 stateside duty sites, 3 years in Germany (1952-54), 18 months in Korea (1962-63), and a year in Viet Nam.

He was twice stationed at the Pentagon, first before his Viet Nam tour working in the War Room and next following his return from the Viet Nam conflict.

His last duty assignment before retirement as colonel in 1973 was at Ft. Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX. During his career, he earned the Legion of Merit and Oak Leaf Cluster.

Upon retirement, Jim worked for Computer Sciences Corporation in El Segundo, CA, and later was given the assignment to open a satellite office in Beltsville, MD. He left Computer Sciences Corporation in 1986.

Jim died on 11 June 1988 after a brief stay at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Jim was survived by his wife Peg, who moved to Columbus, OH, shortly after his death. Peg died in the fall of 1995, also after a short illness. They are survived by two children: James R. Fette, a senior marketing manager for an Ohio-based telecommunications company, and Joyce Fette Molohon, who is in real estate sales in Elko, NV. Jim also is survived by a sister, Bette Fare Custin of Wilmington, DE, and 5 grandchildren.

At their first duty station, Ft. Lewis, WA, Jim and Peg met and became lifelong friends of classmates Buddy and Ann White, Bernie and Jean Matthey, and Bob and Corrie Miller. Buddy recalls the gracious hospitality of Jim and Peg in welcoming the newly arrived Whites during tight housing situations at both Ft. Leavenworth and Ft. Lewis.

Bernie recalls Jim's fun-loving approach to life as evidenced by the wonderful get-togethers Jim engineered in both Las Vegas and Palm Springs.

Bob recalls Jim's highly developed technical and management skills in keeping the Pentagon's War Room computers operational during the early days of computerization.

Jim is remembered by his family and friends as a good husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, and, above all, a good soldier.

- His family

Robert Bruce Ferguson

NO. 17461  •  8 December 1925 – 5 January 1983

Died 5 January 1983 in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, aged 57 years.
Interment: West Point Cemetery, West Point, New York.

 

BOB WAS A leader who cherished and exemplified the ideals of West Point. Born 8 December 1925 in Plattsburgh, New York he was raised in Keesville, New York by his mother. Responsibility came early to Bob as he helped to care for his younger brother and managed newspaper routes. He developed a love for music in the study of the violin and oboe which he subsequently played in the Plattsburgh Symphony. It was during his early high school years that he first expressed a desire to attend USMA. After graduating as salutatorian in 1943 he studied at Braden's Academy. Unable to enter West Point that year, he enlisted in the Army at age seventeen. He served as a combat infantryman with the famed 42nd Infantry (Rainbow) Division. He was among the first troops to reach Dachau and free the prisoners.

When the war in Europe ended, Bob was in Austria and was offered a commission with the Occupation Army. Still determined to go to USMA, Bob reenlisted in 1945 and returned to the States to attend USMAPS at Cornell. Meanwhile, he continued to search for an appointment. Offered one to the Naval Academy in 1946, he turned it down and returned home to find an appointment to West Point awaited him.

From the beginning of Beast Barracks Bob excelled in all aspects of the Academy program. His experience in the Army plus his additional academic preparation enabled him to do extremely well and to help others who were struggling. While a cadet Bob was active in the Cadet Chapel Choir, Glee Club, Ski Club, Public Information Detail and Rifle Team. He wore academic stars but always had time to serve as a patient coach for classmates. During second class summer he was one of ten cadets chosen to participate in an exchange program with the French Military Academy, L'Ecole Polytechnique. As a first classman, Bob was a cadet captain, the commander of Company "C," 1st Regiment. His example as a leader and his value as a friend were firmly established at West Point and were widely respected by classmates throughout his life.

Following West Point, Bob was stationed in Austria for four years, initially with the 351st Infantry and subsequently with the Mountain Training center at Salfelden. In 1954 he went to Fort Benning, Georgia for parachute school and Infantry officers' courses. He was a company commander in the 29th Infantry in 1956 when he decided to leave the Army in order to assume the vice presidency of Frankson Furniture Company in West Ossipee, New Hampshire. During the seventeen years he managed this company, he became highly respected both in business and in the community.

On 28 December 1973 Bob married Charlotte Wood and took on the responsibility of three stepchildren. He became a marvelous father and succeeded in providing a balance of love and discipline by example which gave them a secure foundation for future development. He formed his own business by starting Wood Dimensions, Inc. in Tuftonboro, New Hampshire ... a wholesale lumber solid dimension business which tripled in volume in the first three years and is now being carried on by his family.

In 1982, two years after losing his younger brother to cancer, Bob learned that he also had cancer and was told he had one year to live. It was a terrible blow for everyone, but Bob was determined he would live as normal a life as possible. During his last year Bob spent many weekends at West Point with daughter Jennifer who was a plebe. It was very exciting for him to have her there. You can imagine his pride and satisfaction when Jennifer was selected as a company commander for Plebe Parent Weekend! He relived his days as a cadet through her experiences. He spent time talking with many cadets, being supportive and encouraging by expressing his appreciation for values he had acquired as a cadet. He also renewed and strengthened ties with many classmates. His cadet company, "C-1," had a mini-reunion which he thoroughly enjoyed. He was comforted by the fact that friendships with classmates and their families would endure and continue with his family after he was gone. Jennifer graduated 22 May 1985 as a cadet captain, battalion commander and is now a 1st lieutenant stationed in West Germany near where Bob was in World War II.

Bob conducted his business from the hospital and from his bed at home right up until four days before he died. He displayed fantastic courage. He never complained and did not wish to burden anyone with sadness. He believed that life had been good to him. He was determined to bear his cross bravely, and quietly taught his family what to do to carry on without him. He truly loved West Point and chose to be buried there. Bob was an extremely kind man, a wonderful husband, father and friend. At his memorial service, his minister aptly summed it up by saying, " . . . We acknowledge our lives have been richly and wonderfully blessed because we were privileged to walk part way with Bob."

- Charlotte and Classmates

Charles Kohl Farabaugh

NO. 17944  •  2 February 1929 – 17 July 1952

Killed in Action 17 July 1952 near Haduch'on, North Korea, aged 23 years.

 

ONE OF THE youngest members of his class, Chuck was born on 2 February 1929 in Minneapolis, Minnesota; the son of Charles L. and Marie Kohl Farabaugh. After completIng grade school in St. Stephen's in Minneapolis, he moved with his family to Missoula, Montana, where he graduated from the Missoula County High School in 1946, just in time to enter West Point with the Class of 1950.

Plebe year for Chuck was filled with the usual upperclassmen doing their best to rattle him, but his natural sense of humor and characteristic cool head carried him unscathed and uncomplaining through that difficult period. Track and crosscountry were his sports and, while not the best of competitors - being more anxious for his friends' success than his own - he managed to stay with the team where he earned the sobriquet of "The Cinderella Runner," since he always managed to ramble home with the final point that spelled victory for his team.

Branch selection was not difficult for Chuck - "Army" and "Infantry" were synonymous to him. His stateside assignments were Jump School at Fort Benning, the 11th Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, and back to Fort Benning with the reactivated 508th Airborne BCT. Mid-April 1952 found him in Korea, a platoon leader in Company "A," 17th Infantry, which was on line at IlwaChon, northeast of Seoul. Chuck's character was truly unique. He was not easily impressed, nor did he try to impress anyone. He had an extremely cool head and an easygoing friendliness combined with even-tempered aggressiveness that earned him the respect and loyalty of the men he led. The brief period from April to July 1952 was among the happiest of his life, for he felt that he was making a substantial contribution to the good of his country and the welfare of his men. This is indicated by his letters to his family. "I'm enjoying this life more and more each day. I hope now to extend my tour of duty .... this is a wonderful way to live." "We ... are sitting around the stove drinking some beer and shooting the breeze - a very enjoyable evening." And Chuck did all that the ideal platoon leader would do. Following is the citation for his Distinguished Service Cross:

"First Lieutenant Charles K. Farabaugh, 062695, Infantry, United States Army. Lieutenant Farabaugh, a member of an Infantry company, distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Haduch’on, Korea. On the afternoon of 17 July 1952, Lieutenant Farabaugh led a combat patrol deep into enemy - held territory for the purpose of locating and probing hostile troops. The patrol was surprised by a numerically superior enemy force and a fierce fire fight ensued. During the battle, Lieutenant Farabaugh observed an element of the enemy force moving slowly to the left of the patrol's position in a flanking maneuver. After carefully estimating the situation, Lieutenant Farabaugh ordered the patrol to withdraw. He then moved from his protective cover through the intense enemy fire to a position from which he could cover the threatened flank. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Farabaugh laid down such a withering hail of fire that the hostile forces were repelled. While he was covering the withdrawal of his patrol through the cleared sector, Lieutenant Farabaugh was mortally wounded. The extraordinary heroism exhibited by Lieutenant Farabaugh on this occasion reflects great credit on himself and is in keeping with the finest traditious of the military service. Entered the Federal service front New York."

After Chuck's death, his parents received letters in tribute to his devotion to duty and ability as a leader that probably would have meant more to Chuck than all the medals the Army could bestow. From Sergeant Sullivan, his platoon sergeant: "he was aggressive yet even-tempered, and my closest remembrances of him are his steadiness under duress. Whether defeating the Chinese at close quarters or gaining an extra ration of beer for his men he was ever eager to accomplish his mission. As a rifleman in two wars I have seen strain register on many men. Of all these men, your son was the man." And from a Corporal Zilcox: "I was out on patrol with your son. He was a very good Lt. and I would go anywhere on patrol with him."

Chuck's friends and comrades salute him and feel to a man their own and the Anny's great loss.

In addition to his parents, who now live in Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York, Chuck is survived by his two sisters: Mary, the wife of Major Herbert 0. Brennan, USAF, now stationed at the Air Force Academy; and Barbara, the wife of Mr. John F. Rhodes, presently at the University of Texas, Austin, Texas.

Donald A. Fahey

NO. 17545  •  7 Jan 1927 – 21 Feb 2002

Died in Providence, RI
Interred in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Providence, RI


Donald Aloysious Fahey was born and raised in Belmont, MA. His father was an attorney and his mother was a graduate of Radcliffe College. In 1944, at age 17, Don graduated from Belmont High School and immediately entered Harvard University on a scholarship. He completed his freshman year before being inducted into the Army in 1945.

In early 1946, upon earning a competitive appointment to West Point from Representative Edith Nourse Rogers, Don was reassigned from the Philippines to the U.S. Military Academy preparatory program at Amherst College and entered the Corps of Cadets that July.

Don sailed effortlessly through academics and had ample time for lots of intellectual outside reading. His acumen and approach to academics were outstanding and worthy of emulation by all with whom he came in contact. He readily assisted less knowledgeable classmates in their studies and preparation for daily recitations and exams. His ability to explain a difficult problem and its resolution helped many "goat" classmates pull their grades up to the Academic Department standards.

Don starred in intramural boxing as a plucky "lighter than air" contestant, and he served in the Catholic Chapel as an acolyte and lay reader. First Class year, Don was elected to serve as a member of the Honor Committee, a key organization charged with upholding the standards on the Corps of Cadets and indoctrinating the new Plebe class with the Academy's motto of "Duty, Honor, Country." His performance on this committee was exemplary. Always a levelheaded and quick thinker, his subtle, wry humor often gave pause to those who might start speaking before thinking.

Early on, Don demonstrated high principles and a steadfast adherence to his beliefs and loyalties. He was unyielding in his support for the hapless Boston Braves, who eventually fled the hub for Milwaukee and Atlanta. He was in his glory in the days of "Spahn and Sain, then pray for rain."

At graduation, Don chose the Cavalry branch. His first assignment was to Europe with the 14th Armored Cavalry Regiment, charged with screening and defending the area west of the Fulda Gap. This was a tough job, but they must have done it well because the communist hordes never tried to force the issue. During this period of alerts, border patrols, and bachelor living, Don proposed long distance to Alice Mary Koehler, the younger sister of a classmate. On 31 Mar 1951, they were wed in Friedberg, Germany.

Returning home, Don and Alice spent three years at Ft. Meade, MD, and Camp Pickett, VA, with the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, followed by Don's unaccompanied tour in Korea. On his return, the family moved to Hanover, NH, where Don was assigned as an assistant professor of military science and tactics at Dartmouth for four years. Then they went back across the Atlantic to Bavaria for service in the 15th Cavalry and the 7th Army Training Center at Vilseck. After three years, they moved to Ft. Knox, KY. From 1965 to 1967, he served on the Reserve Officer Training Corps staff at Providence College, his final military duty. During this assignment, Don and Alice purchased a comfortable home in Barrington, near Narragansett Bay.

Over the years, from 1952 to 1963, Don and Alice's children-Elizabeth, Donald, Alice, Catherine, Mary, Michael, Margaret, and Richard-rose to occupy places at the Fahey dinner table and provide vitality and life to the home. Each was an outstanding young person and a source of pride to their parents.

When Don completed 20 years of military service, he retired so he could generate the income to educate his children, who were nearing college age. He entered the high-tech computer world as a programmer for John Hancock, and in his spare time returned to college, working toward a degree in history.

As the children finished college, found gainful employment, and married, the home in Barrington slowly began to empty. Not surprisingly, it took over ten years, but the day came when the extended family was spread within relatively easy reach across a 200-mile arc around Barrington. Don and Alice entered a well-deserved retirement and switched to gardening, relaxing, fulminating over politics and, on the side, running a mobile babysitting service for grandchildren. Annual family gatherings were a ritual and a joy for all involved.

In retirement, Don exhibited all the qualities of human understanding, loyalty, devotion, perception, and fairness that had typified his conduct and behavior throughout his life. He loved Alice, his extended family and his classmates-and he continued to love the Braves.

A devoted Catholic, Don lived a true Christian life and did his utmost to follow the Golden Rule. In his final years, his health began to slip. He returned to his Maker in the cold month of February. A true gentleman in every respect, he is sorely missed. Alice continues to reside in their comfortable home in Barrington, where Don's vibrant voice still greets callers on the answering machine. Their brood is a comfort to her and relatively near at hand in the Northeast United States.

-- CWH BHJ

Eugene C. Etz

NO. 17746  •  29 July 1926 - 7 September 1955

Died at Stewart AFB, Newburgh, NY
Interred in Independence, KS


IN THE LATE SUMMER of 1955, a T-33 military jet took off from Stewart AFB just north of West Point with two of our classmates on board. The pilot was Eugene Charles "Gene" Etz and the passenger was John Hall. Two minutes after take-off, the plane experienced engine trouble and Gene radioed the control tower that he was returning to the field. With the plane circling for the landing, Gene made the decision not to drop an external fuel tank because he was over a housing area in Newburgh, and John Hall concurred. As the T-33 approached runway number nine, it crashed and burst into flames, and both occupants were killed instantly. It was 5 Sep 1955, just five years and ninety-two days after graduation.

It is ironic that Gene survived combat operations in Korea, only to die in the relative safety of the skies over the Hudson Valley. Extracts from his combat citations read, "1 LT Eugene C. Etz distinguished himself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight over enemy held territory from 18 Dec 1951 to 15 May 1952 ... operations included dangerous low level attacks against enemy rail and transportation routes... [and] ... long range escort and patrols deep into enemy territory. During these flights, LT Etz was subjected to intense anti-aircraft and small arms fire. Many of his targets were tenaciously defended by enemy jet aircraft."

Those of us who knew Gene as a cadet remember his zest for life and for sports - especially track - and his enthusiasm for flying. Even before becoming a cadet, Gene earned a private airplane pilot license. He joined the Army Air Corps Reserve in August 1943, only enhancing his love of flying. A classmate also remembers Gene's devotion to his one-and-only, Jacque, whom he married after graduation. The classmate recalls, "my thoughts about Gene are that he was a very positive, energetic person who was madly in love with his girlfriend, Jacque." Another classmate adds to Gene's devotion to flying and sports with, "His priorities were his girlfriend, the Air Force, and track." As a cadet, Gene enjoyed participating in various forms of athletics. He was a formidable opponent in Plebe boxing and a fierce competitor in all the other sports. He won major A's in corps squad track, excelling in the quarter-mile. His aggressive spirit enhanced his martial military spirit. It always was his life's professional goal to fly high-performance aircraft in the Air Force, and he was especially well suited temperamentally, physically, and mentally to become the outstanding fighter pilot he proved to be. His record as an F-86 pilot in Korea is outstanding.

After graduation, Gene underwent the usual Basic Flight training at Goodfellow AFB, TX, followed by Advanced Flight training at Williams AFB, AZ. In October 1951, he received jet fighter-bomber training at Nellis AFB, NV, before he was off to the air war in Korea. Reporting for duty there in November 1951, Gene was assigned to the 182d "Red Tails" Fighter-Bomber Squadron, 136th Fighter-Bomber Group, Fifth Air Force, with which he flew 70 combat missions over Korea.

Gene was among our very first classmates to return to the Academy as an instructor. In June 1955, he reported to the Department of Military Topography and Graphics in preparation for teaching duties in the fall. Gene, his wife Jacque, and their two daughters Candace and Penny, lived in the Central Apartments housing area on West Point. The Etz family looked forward with great expectations to the next three years in the beautiful surroundings of West Point. Instead, unaccountably, this ideal scenario ended abruptly and all too soon in the sunny skies of a September afternoon. For those who knew Gene - his family, friends, and classmates - this accident was a tragedy we could scarcely grasp.

Now, 45 years later, we remember Gene as a man of integrity and purpose, summarized in these words from one of his classmates in Cadet Company I-1, "Gene was a good friend who always was willing to assist, whether on the track or in daily routines. His diligence and perseverance exemplified, to a great degree, his sense of direction. His positive self-assurance and confidence served as an incentive to me. He always was well organized and dedicated to his immediate tasks. His ability to succeed was influenced by his constant love for flying. I admired his steadfast motivation to achieve his goals. In track, he never stopped trying to achieve and to win. He seemed to be a person who knew what he wanted to do and then proceeded to expend his energies to do it."

Requiescat in Pace.

Classmate Leo Romaneski

Charles William Elliot

NO. 17970  •  19 December 1927 – 21 November 1968

Died 21 November 1968 in an aircraft crash at Point Borrow, Alaska, aged 40 years.
Interment: El Carmelo Cemetery, Pacific Grove, California


CHARLES WILLIAM ELLIOT was born in Beloit, Wisconsin, on 19 December 1927. He attended the United States Military Academy eaming a Bachelor of Science Degree. After graduation on 2 June 1950, he received airborne training, had a brief assignment with the 11th Airborne Division, and went to Korea in January 1951.

During the Korean War, Charlie led a rifle platoon and a heavy mortar platoon in the 32d RCT, 7th Infantry Division. He was wounded in June 1951 and hospitalized until July 1953.

Assignments held by Charlie, in chronological order, included: S3 officer in a training battalion at Fort Benning, Georgia; MAAG advisor to an infantry battalion in Saudi Arabia; G3 Plans and Operations Officer, Fort Ord, California; Military Intelligence Platoon Commander, Headquarters Company Commander, and Adjutant for the 519 MI Battalion, Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Rifle Company Commander in the 6th Infantry Regiment and G3 Plans Officer for Berlin Brigade. He also served as Chairman, Benning Ranger Committee, Fort Benning, Georgia. He assumed duties as Personnel Staff Officer in the office of the J1 Division, Headquarters, Alaskan Command, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, on 20 June 1967.

Military schools he attended are: Airborne, Company Officers Course, Advanced Infantry Officers Course, Ranger, Army Language School at Monterey, California for Arabic, and Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

His awards and decorations included: Legion of Merit (posthumously), Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Korean Service Medal with three battle stars, United Nations Service Medal. National Defense Service Medal with bronze star, Army of Occupation Medal (Berlin), and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. Charlie had also been awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge, and the Ranger Tab.

While serving as military representative to the Governor's Employment Advisory Commission, he died in an aircraft crash on 21 November 1968 - along with five other members of the commission - at Point Barrow, Alaska.

He is survived by his wife Florence June; and their three children, Karen, Charles, and Bruce; and by his mother Mrs. Frieda C. Peek of Kittery, Maine.

Charles Elliot was a fine young officer who will be remembered by all with fondness and respect.

George Baylor Eichelberger, Jr.

NO. 17483  •  23 December 1926 – 15 January 1952

Died 15 January 1952 in Korea, aged 25 years.


GEORGE BAYLOR EICHELBERGER, JR. was born in Norfolk, Virginia on 23 December 1926, the first child of George and Mary Eichelberger. He grew up in a loving home which had a close affiliation with the Presbyterian Church. He attended public schools and always stood high in his class. At Granby High School Baylor played end on a championship football team.

He enlisted in the Army after high school graduation and served until his appointment to West Point. The United States Military Academy had been his goal for many years.

Upon entering West Point Baylor focused his efforts on becoming a good cadet in all aspects. He did well in academics and participated on the gymnastics team and lettered on the soccer team. Even though he regularly attended church and was a Christian, he found a closer relationship with his God. Baylor served as a Sunday School teacher for the post children all four years as a cadet, and additionally, served as superintendent of that Sunday School his senior year.

Always cheerful, always friendly, Baylor could be counted on to enliven any group. He loved to attack any challenge - whether it be academic, dialectic, athletic, or religious. He was a fine example of a good cadet.

Upon graduation, he approached pilot training as another challenge and finished near the top of his class. A short training period was followed by his assignment to the 67th Fighter Bomber Squadron in Korea. He became a popular and inspirational member of that unit.

On 15 January 1952, his flight was assigned a mission of eliminating a North Korean oil dump. Baylor's plane, number three in a flight of four, was observed to have crashed into one of the oil storage tanks. He was awarded the Air Medal and the Purple Heart posthumously.

His commanding officer commented in a letter to Baylor's parents that if ever a young man was prepared to meet his maker, that young man was Baylor. George Baylor Eichelberger, Junior, lived his religion, and he knew that he would have life everlasting.

Although time has dimmed the hurt, it cannot dim the loss.

- CRC, his roommate