Class Sword Presentation for Kendall Polling
In just a few short days, you will receive your diploma, a pair of shiny new second lieutenant bars, and step off into the ranks of The Long Gray Line. Congratulations on this extremely notable achievement! For me, it almost seems like yesterday when that thrill of accomplishment touched me, as it will for you too I am convinced, and continues to beset me annually at this time of year. I regret not being able to be there and present an Officer's Saber to you on behalf of all your "grandfathers" in the Class of 1947; but I know Linda Mastin will do an outstanding and inspiring job in taking my place and representing the Class.
As you now embark on your career of service and leadership to this great nation, the prayers and best wishes of all your "grandfathers" go with you. Good luck in all of your future endeavors. We are all extremely proud of you.
Col. John W. Lauterbach (Ret)
President, Class of 1947
Sir,
Thank you very much for the officer saber.The presentation was a significant moment in my graduation week. I have included a picture of Ms. Mastin presenting me with the saber. Also, she told us many interesting facts about your class that I had never heard; for example, your class was escorted by three destroyers to the Army Navy game in Baltimore in 1944.
The saber ceremony made my graduation an even greater experience, and I truly felt honored to become a member of The Long Gray Line. I cannot express enough my thanks to all my grandfathers of the class of 1947.
Very Respectfully,
Kendall Poling