The 33rd Award of the Captain Gerald C. Capelle Memorial Trophy took place at the USMA Prep School Graduation on May 20, 2004. The trophy, sponsored by the West Point Class of 1958, is awarded for excellence in intramural competition. Mrs. Joan (Capelle) Vande Castle, sister of Captain Capelle, assisted by Colonel William E. Serchak, (USA-Ret.) presented the award to Alpha Company. The Capelle Memorial Trophy honors Captain Gerald C. Capelle who was killed in action in Vietnam on April 1, 1965. This year’s graduation and award ceremonies included a parade & review of the cadet candidates with music provided by the West Point Band.

In addition to the trophy, the class of 1958 also provides funds for a ‘pizza party’ for all members of the winning company. The USMAPS Commandant, Lt. Col. Mark English and Alpha Company Tactical Officer, Captain Lindsay, both expressed their sincere appreciation to the Class of 1958 for its continued interest and support of USMAPS. Captain Lindsay said that he intends to write a letter of appreciation to the Class of 1958, in that regard.

Joan (Capelle) was accompanied to Ft. Monmouth by her husband, John Vande Castle from their home in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. This was the first presentation of the Capelle Trophy by a member of the Capelle family, since the inception of the award in 1972. Colonel (USA-Ret.) Hugh & Mrs. Ann Trumbull and Mrs. Edna Mae Serchak observed the presentation at the post parade field along with several hundred parents and friends of the 189 graduating Cadet Candidates.

Respectfully submitted,

William E. Serchak

USMAPS HQ	Joan & John Vande Castle at the Memorial Wall	USMAPS Awards Table	Bill & Joan with Capelle Plaque	USMAPS Com'dant & Cmd Sgt Major at Graduation Parade

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