Newsletters

3rd Qtr 09 Newsletter

Dear Proud to Be ’83,

Thank you for your positive feedback on the Quarterly Newsletter. 

We now have about 775 classmates up on email out of 930 alumni that participate in our activities – 120 missing address and about 35 bad email addresses.  If you know of someone not receiving the letter, please forward and tell them to send me an email update.  This will be our primary means of communication of class events until the first mailings for the 30th reunion somewhere around the June 2012 (if Spring 2013) or Jan 2013 (if fall 2013).  We will send out a ballot to determine the date. 

I would also like to encourage you all to subscribe to Assembly.  Mark and Cheryl Connors write the best column by far of any class.  Here is the link to subscribe – https://www.westpointaog.org/NetCommunity/SSLPage.aspx?pid=2553

Stars are Falling on Proud to Be’83

Four new nominations for promotion to the rank of Brigadier General were announced this summer from Proud to Be ’83 – Colonels Billy Don Farris II, Mark S. Martins, John J. McGuiness, and  John G. Rossi.  Billy Don is currently Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff, U.S. Army, Washington, D.C. Mark is currently serving special assistant to The Judge Advocate General, U.S. Army, Arlington, Va. and further detailed to deputy commander, Detainee Operations, Joint Task Force – 435, Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan. Mark spent the past seven months co-chairing President Obama's task force on the future of detention policy.  John McGuiness is currently serving as Assistant Deputy for Acquisition and Systems Management, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics and Technology), Washington, D.C.  John Rossi currently serving as Effects Coordinator, III Corps, Fort Hood, Texas.  They join previously announced Brigadier General’s Ernest C. Audino, ANG, Maria (Corsini) Britt, GAANG, Scott Miller, USA, Jeff Snow, USA, Sonny Uberti, USA, Ken Tovo, USA and COL (Promotable) Brain Balfe, NYARNG and BG Reynold Hoover, ALARNG.  Please let me know if there are any GO promotions in the Active, Guard and Reserve that I am not aware of.  Congratulations to our new GOs!   

Class Gift (2013)

The construction plan for our 30th Reunion gift, the West Point Leadership Center (WPLC) is starting to take shape.  We are getting in on the ground floor of this terrific leadership development venue.  The location for the building will be at the Golf Course and plans are for cadets, staff and faculty, as well as civilian firms to partake in the Leadership Programs it develops and runs.  The Purpose of the center is to “Establish a universally respected leadership center at our academy—the West Point Leadership Center.”  The Vision for the center is “Operating at the nexus of the military, the private sector, government, technology, and society, a Leadership Center at West Point prepares leaders – ranging from cadets to statesmen – to tackle, and resolve the world's most formidable challenges.”  This is going to be a great gift to the Academy.

It might be easy to say “so what” and be a continuing, no dues paying member of the Zero Club (no donation to the center or class)?  However, if you think about how your donation will contribute to the development of cadets during their 47 month experience.  If you think about how these cadets have volunteered to serve during a Very Difficult time in our world and country.  If you think about the 70+ Graduates and 5000+ soldiers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting our freedoms – including our very own Ted Westhusing and now class son, SGT Andrew McConnell.  And, if you think about how easy it is to do without $50 – 100 dollars a month until the reunion, this monitory sacrifice pales in comparison to what our soldiers and their families are enduring.  We will also be setting the standard for our 50 year affiliation class, the class of 2033 (who won’t be born until 2011).  Join with me and let’s get everyone donating something – Every Dollar Counts.

 

Progress Update:  We continue to make steady progress toward our 30th Reunion gift of $1.5 Million to the West Point Leadership Center (WPLC) – since Jan 2008 (reunion year) we have received pledges and donations to the value of $337,635 (11% participation); this coupled with past donations since the 20 year gift which are credited to each person's contribution level, gives us roughly $573,625; We still have a long journey ahead.  With the economy turning (hopefully it is sustainable) and yearend tax planning on the calendar, now is a good time to consider a pledge and donation (http://www.westpointaog.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=1503 ) to the class.  We have a number of classmates that have answered the call and are commited to $50K and $25K giving levels!  However, we cannot achieve the gift goal without the entire class support.  We understand the ever increasing demand for donations to all organizations in this environment, we would only ask that the class be one of your priorities.  Make your pledge today!  We are looking to post to the class website more detail of the WPLC soon; significant progress has been made to take it from a concept to reality.  I would like to think our class was the catalyst!!  Thank You and thanks to Harry for your continued effort with this campaign.

Class Offspring R-Day (29 June 2009)

The Class had at least four Cadets enter USMA on 29 June and make it through Beast – Donna Brazil and Tim Trainor’s daughter Kori Trainor;  Ron and Barbara Costella’s son Brian (See Attached Photo, Third New Cadet Back);  Cliff and Irene Crofford’s son Daniel;  and, Eileen (Mulholland) and Jim Trainor’s son Brian.  I also found out that Mike and Barbara Tomaszewski’s had a son graduate in 2005 – Cameron Keogh.  Acceptances to Class of 2014 are starting to come in – Jasmine Morgan, a sophomore at LSU and daughter of Tommy Morgan.  If I have missed anyone, let me know immediately.  Good luck as they begin the Academic Term.  Beat the Dean. 

Rocketman Update – COL Doug Wheelock

COL Doug Wheelock is currently training at Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center (GCTC) in Star City, Russia as a back-up ISS Expedition 22 crew member.  Doug is scheduled to launch on a Russian Soyuz spacecraft in the Spring of 2010, and serve for 6 months in space as the Commander of the International Space Station, and its 6-person international crew, during ISS Expedition 25.  That will be a long air trip.  Good luck Doug!

USMAPS at West Point Groundbreaking

Many of you know that USMAPS is moving from Fort Monmouth, NJ to West Point.  Recently, our very own COL Tyge Rugenstein, Commandant/Dean, participated in the groundbreaking for the new school (See Attached).  It will be located near Washington Gate in place of the Transportation Motor Pool.

Tune in to West Point Radio to Hear our Very Own Mike Lyons

http://www.westpointaog.org/NetCommunity/view.image?Id=5628West Point Radio – host Mike Lyons '83

Visit the site now to learn more and listen to our shows.
http://www.wsradio.com/westpointradio

Tune in live on the first Wednesday of each month at 5:00 pm (Eastern), or You can listen later via the archives.  Shows are also available as podcasts if you prefer listening on-the-go! Visit Archives.  I know this photo is from 10 years ago.

That is all for now.  Go Army.

 

 

Pete aka Fizzer

Newsletters

2 Qtr 09 Update

Dear Proud to Be ’83,

 Many of you have told me that you are still not receiving the updates on the class.  I think I have solved this issue, however if you do not wish to be included, let me know and I will delete your address.  I want to continue to welcome all Proud to Be Alumni (not just those who graduated) to join us in our alumni events and support of the Academy.  Please pass this update to others who may be interested or who have had an email change I don’t know about.  If you would like the other two updates, check our website at http://www.west-point.org/class/usma1983/ .  This is the third update on class events and initiatives.  I apologize if you have not been receiving them.  There is much to report. 

 

Cadet Bob Lewis, ’09 Wins Inaugural Proud to Be ’83 Cadet Spirit Award (See Presentation Picture1 ,

Presentation Picture 2 and Presentation Picture 3)

 

 I was reminded how slow the bureaucracy at West Point was in establishing the Proud to Be ’83 Cadet Spirit Award.  After seven months, it is finally approved.  The first presentation venue could have been from any “Joe College” night of the past 30 years (although maybe not as spirited as the 4,000 C-ration boxes flying through the mess hall).  At the Corps Dinner on 7 May 2009 assembled on the Poop Deck were representatives from the Pep Band, Rabble Rousers, and some good old fashion mascots.  The Corps had assembled to recognize Cadet Bob Lewis ‘09 for his leadership in instilling Spirit.  COL Jeanette McMahon Agresano, our Rabble Rouser extraordinaire, made the first presentation.  The award is a mounted Bayonet.  Bob hails from Carbondale, Pennsylvania and graduated from Carbondale Area High School in 2005.  He majored in Environmental Geography and was commissioned in Armor.  Thanks Jeanette for making this event more than I ever imagined. 

USMA Class of 1983 Donates $5,000 at Wounded Warrior Project’s 2009 Courage Awards & Benefit Dinner

The WWP’s 2009 Courage Awards & Benefit Dinner was held on Thursday, May 14 2009 at Cipriani, 42nd Street in New York City.  Nearly 700 guests attended, including Bill O'Reilly, New York Giants Coach Tom Coughlin and Tony Sirico from the Sopranos.  Bob Costas was the Master of Ceremonies for the event.  Amongst the star studded crowd was a table of USMA Class of 1983 Alumni there to support our wounded warriors – Tim McDonald, Joe Bassil, Bill Selman, Frank Giordano, and Mark Sullivan presented a check from the class for $5,000 to the Wounded Warrior Project in honor of our classmates on Active Duty.  The idea for support of the WWP was offered by BG Scott Miller at our 25th Reunion Class Meeting.  The Dinner provided the ideal location for the presentation.  Thanks Tim for encouraging and coordinating our participation.  Each year, the awards dinner provides the opportunity to bring together and honor many of the brave wounded warriors who have sacrificed much in service to our nation. The funds raised support thousands of injured service men and women and their families from battlefield to bedside and beyond. Almost $500K was raised to support the WWP from their signature program, which provides comfort items to newly injured service members — to TRACK, the first education center in the nation designed specifically for wounded warriors.  WWP’s benefits counseling, peer mentoring, and adaptive sports programs also aid in the challenging transition from a hospital bed to an independent, productive, and successful civilian life.  The following awards were given out during the ceremony:   The Talkhouse Award for Community Service – Johnny Damon, New York Yankees; The Tony Snow Award  – Michael Ward, CSX Corporation; The George C. Lang Award – John Fernandez, USMA 2001, Wounded Warrior & WWP Alumni member; and The John Melia Award For Warrior Service – John Melia, WWP Founder.

Wounded Warrior Project is a non-profit organization whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors. WWP serves to raise awareness and enlist the public’s aid for the needs of severely injured service men and women, to help severely injured service members aid and assist each other and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. For more information, please call 877 TEAM WWP (832-6997) or visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

 

Class Offspring Silver Dollar Presentation Graduation Week (See Coin1 , Coin2 , Coin3   pictures)

 

COLs Tim Trainor and Donna Brazil once again did an outstanding job recognizing our class Offspring during Graduation Week at the Honor Monument.  They presented 2009 Lincoln Silver Proof Dollars to our three graduating offspring – COL Laureen Barone and Joe Leforte’s son and daughter, Joseph and Kathleen Leforte, as well as Laurie and Gregory Gongaware’s daughter Andrea (remember she parachuted onto the parade field during our 25th).  Please make sure we are aware of anyone joining future classes.  The class leadership wants to make sure our class sons and daughters know we all are proud of their accomplishments.  Thanks Tim and Donna for another memorable event.

 

Class Gift (2013)

 

We are making slow headway towards the funding for our 30th Reunion gift of $1.5 Million to the Global Leadership Center.  Since Jan 2008 (reunion year) we have received pledges and donations to the value of $268,255 (11% participation); this coupled with our current balances gives us roughly $438,973 which is less than a third of our commitment. We understand the economic climate and the ever increasing demand for donations to all organizations, we would only ask that the class be one of your priorities.  If you haven’t made your pledge yet, please take the time to commit to our gift.  AOG has an easy online donation signup where you can pledge an affordable monthly donation to be put on a credit card for a specified period of time (i.e. 60 months) – https://www.westpointaog.org/NetCommunity/SSLPage.aspx?pid=859.  

Harry Shablom is moving forward with classmate volunteers to contact every alumni of the Class of 1983.  Set up your pledge now to avoid a last minute donation around reunion time.  We currently have three classmates who have pledged $50K to the cause!  The Class Coins are beginning to make their way out to those who have pledge $1000 or more to the class gift.  Make your pledge today!  Thank You and thanks to Harry for your significant time and effort.

 

Exxon Mobil Presents Matching Gift Contributions (See Picture)

 

Representing Exxon Mobil, our very own fundraising officer, Harry Shablom, presented a check for $144,837 to the USMA Dean, BG Patrick Finnegan '71 on 30 April 2009.  Exxon Mobil matches employee gifts 3 to 1 for individual employees.  Their lifetime giving to USMA is $1,295,097.52.

  

Division I NCAA Softball Champions

 

Alyson McWherter, daughter of Laura and Len McWherter ’83, is the starting Center Fielder on the 2009 NCAA Division I Softball National Champion University of Washington Huskies.  During the championship series she made several outstanding catches to rob opposing players of extra base hits.  Len and Laura were able to visit with Pete Brual in Atlanta (Super Regional) and Tommy Morgan for the finals in Oklahoma City.  Alyson is a member of the Army ROTC at the UW.  See ESPN article – http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/columns/story?columnist=hays_graham&id=4224381

 

and the Washington News Tribune – http://www.thenewstribune.com/1042/story/766655.html 

 

Congratulations to the McWherter family.  That is all for now.  Go Army.Pete aka Fizzer 

Newsletters

1 Qtr 09 Update

Dear Proud to Be ’83,I’m going to try to get an update to the class on a quarterly basis on class events and initiatives (depending on progress).  The Assembly continues to be an excellent publication to keep up with Academy events and Mark and Cheryl Connors do an outstanding job keeping up with Classmates.  If you don’t subscribe, please reconsider.

 

Class Gift (2013)Once again, the class gift for presentation at our 30th Reunion is to the Global Leadership Center.  I ask now that we all rally behind the selected gift and support its success.  AOG has an easy online donation signup where you can pledge an affordable monthly donation to be put on a credit card for a specified period of time (ie. 60 months) – https://www.westpointaog.org/NetCommunity/SSLPage.aspx?pid=859 .  In any case, Harry Shablom is honchoing the greatest task ever contemplated…contacting every alumni of the Class of 1983.  Expect a call from one of your former company mates in the future.  Set up your pledge now to avoid a last minute donation around reunion time.  We currently have three classmates who have pledged $50K to the cause!  The Class Coins are in and we have decided they will be used to reward those classmates who pledge to the class gift.  Harry Shablom will send me a monthly report of pledges and I will mail the coins to classmates.Wounded Warrior ProjectThe class intends to make a donation in the near future to the Wounded Warrior Project in honor of our classmates on Active Duty – either RA, IRR, or Reserves.  I will report completion of this in the next update.Proud to Be ’83 Cadet Spirit Award (March or April)The Class of 1983 is continuing to move forward to established an Endowed Cadet Award to recognize the highest ranking cadet involved in Cadet Spirit.  We are awaiting approval from the Superintendent and planning to make the first presentation of the Award in the Spring of 2009 during the cadet spirit dinner to the Brigade Cadet Spirit MWR Officer.  The Proud to Be ’83 Cadet Spirit Award recognizes the cadet’s efforts to inculcate spirit in the Corps, while honoring the spirit and fun loving nature of our class.  The first presenter will be one of our class members still on Active Duty.  The Award will be an M9 Bayonet.  Those looking to attend the award ceremony please contact COL Jeanette McMahon at Jeanette.McMahon@usma.edu to find out particulars about getting on the guest list.Golfing Grads of USMA (April)For the past eight years a gaggle of “Proud to be’ers” have been reserving a long weekend a year to play golf and enjoy company.  The first four years we held the event at USMA during the Alumni Golf Weekend in June.  For the past four years we have joined a group of Grads predominately from the early 1960s in Florida and Alabama as their “Youngest Grads.”  There are several RTOs from our era that are part of the crowd and the observation of how crazy we were from their perspective makes for some great “Corps Has” declarations.  Anyway, this year we are going to be in Prattville, Alabama from 15-19 April at the Marriott Hotel & Conf Center at Capitol Hill.  We won’t be hard to find so if you are in the area come find us in the Presidential Suite!Class Offspring Presentation (Graduation Week)The Class has procured three 2009 Lincoln Silver Proof Dollars for presentation to our three graduating offspring – COL Laureen Barone’s son and daughter, Joseph and Kathleen Leforte, as well as Gregory Gongaware’s daughter Andrea.  These Class Gifts will be presented by COLs Tim Trainor and Donna Brazil during Graduation Week.  Last year, Tim and Donna presented six 2008 Silver Eagles to our classmates children at the Honor Monument.  If anyone knows of a son or daughter graduating from USMA this year that is not listed above, let us know immediately.  Also, please make sure we are aware of anyone joining future classes.  The class leadership wants to make sure our classmates’ sons and daughters know we all are proud of their accomplishments.  Army/ Navy Game FYI – The Game has now moved to the second weekend in December.   PassingsAs many of you have already heard, Danny Kellas passed away on 9 December in Charlotte, NC due to complications from surgery.  Johnny Thomas and Joel Johnson attended a Memorial Service in Winchester, Va. in January representing the class and Danny’s Company mates.  Here are their observations from the service:  

From Johnny Thomas:Bandits,
 
I want to give you an update on Danny’s Memorial Service.
 
JJ and I attended the Memorial  Service for Danny at the Braddock Street United Methodist Church in his home town of Winchester, VA.  It was a very moving service.  The church was filled and JJ remarked that it was fortunate that we arrived early.  It was truly standing room only.  There was no sermon given by a minister but as you can see from the program Danny’s Aunt, two best friends from high school and sisters gave very moving tributes to Danny.  Some were funny and some were serious but they all had a similar theme in that Danny never met a stranger.
 
After the service JJ and I attended a reception at the home of Danny’s sister Beth.  At the reception JJ and I had a chance to meet all of Danny’s family including his son and daughter.  
 
I know some of you may want to contact the family and Danny’s wife and parents definitely would like to hear from you.  I can tell you that Danny’s parents were very happy to see JJ and I at the Memorial Service.  Below are mailing and e-mail addresses:
 
Danny’s Parents
Mr. & Mrs. Carter Kellas
353 Sheridan Ave
Winchester, VA 22601
(540)667-0299
ctkellas@verizon.net
 
Danny’s Wife
Mrs. Barbara Kellas
7605 Summerwood Lane
Charlotte, NC 28270-2175
(704)874-1216
kellas1@windstream.net
 
Additionally, the family has requested that contributions are made to the Danny Kellas Children’s Education Fund at Summit Bank, 100 W. Jubal Early Drive, Winchester, VA 22601 to the attention of Steven Tavenner.  If we want to contribute as a class I am more than happy to collect and send to the fund.  If we want to give individually you have the address.
 
From Joel Johnson:JTGreat summary.  I'll admit I shed a couple of tears during the very moving service.  If I may I'd like to add a couple things…

All (Danny's parents, sisters, family and friends) were extremely happy that Johnny and I could attend and represent USMA and, specifically, his classmates and company mates.  We passed on to everyone we talked to that we were representing all of his friends from '83 and B-3 who were not able to attend.  We relayed that word of Danny's passing was slow to get out to the general West Point community as it was such a shock but we were helping to spread the news to all his many friends and they would most likely hear from others.  Danny's mom told us she received a call from our classmate Chuck McGould, who was married to Danny's sister Beth for a while, and thanked us repeatedly for attending and representing West Point.  His West Point years and accomplishments were repeatedly mentioned during the ceremony remembrances.

There weren't a lot of additional details provided around the cause of Danny's death.  Pretty much still a mystery – acute abdominal pains which drove him to go to the hospital, some quick surgery (thought he had an aneurysm in his torso) to address the issue, was awake and sitting up after surgery, then suddenly lapsed into a coma from which he never responded.

Danny was truly a star in the small town of Winchester as attested to the number of people attending yesterday.  Recently (think in September or October of this year) he was inducted into his high school's athletic Hall of Fame – captain of his tennis team, after only picking up a tennis racket for the first time his freshman year and without any formal tennis instruction, that won state titles his junior and senior year.  We heard it was one of the highlights of his life in recent years and no one smiled brighter during the ceremonies.  Johnny provided the program in his earlier message which includes a picture of Danny and his two best friends from high school during the Hall of Fame ceremonies.  Both friends, Boots and Steve, gave very moving tributes to Danny yesterday.

Johnny and I are tentatively planning on attending the Winchester Apple Blossom Festival during the first week in May.  I remember Danny fondly talking about it and saying you have to attend some time.  Pretty big deal for Winchester when the year 'round 20K population swells to 250K that week.  Danny's parents and sisters asked that we contact them if we were going to attend so we could get together again.  As we get closer we'll reach out to everyone, particularly those who are in the DC area at the time (Winchester is about an hour and 15 minutes or so from the VA side of the Beltway) to see who'd like to attend and meet Danny's family.

All the best to everyone in 2009.

JJSorry for the length, but I wanted you to read JTs and JJs emails.That is it for now, make those Class Gift Pledges and Go Army.Pete aka Fizzer

Uncategorized

Liberty Bowl Award

 General receives Liberty Bowl’s highest honor

 

By Isidro Reyna

Army News Service

A college bowl game’s highest honor was presented this week to an Army general who has been recognized for exemplary service to the nation.

 

Brigadier Gen. Kenneth E. Tovo, USMA Class of 1983 and deputy commander, Special Operations Command – Europe, was presented with the 2008 AutoZone Liberty Bowl’s Distinguished Citizen Award at the Peabody Hotel in Memphis, Tenn., Dec. 9.  The general was honored for embodying the founding principles of the 50-year-old bowl game.

 

 

“Having thought about what the bowl stands for — liberty — and that this is a milestone year, we decided to honor someone in uniform,” said AutoZone Liberty Bowl Association President Mike Longo, USMA Class of 1983.

 

“It is our honor to award the AutoZone Liberty Bowl’s Distinguished Citizen Award to a great leader, a great friend and a great citizen,” Longo said.

 

Tovo joins a list of previous winners who have been awarded the honor since 1972, including Navy Vice Admiral William Lawrence, Air Force Lt. Col. John A. Dramesi and the late U.S. Congressman G.V. Sonny Montgomery.

 

“I feel honored to be included in such a great group of Americans,” Tovo said. “This award really honors Army service of both the Soldiers and Family members who are defending our nation in this critical time in our history; and they should be proud of their service.”

 

Nominations for the award were made by the Liberty Bowl Festival Association and were then considered by the AutoZone Liberty Bowl executive staff under the leadership of bowl president, Michael Longo.

 

Longo, Tovo’s former roommate, served in the same company with the general when they were both lieutenants in their first assignment with the 82nd Airborne Division.

 

Tovo accepted the award on behalf of all the Soldiers and Family members serving the nation.

“ Family members , like their service members, are serving the nation,” said Tovo. “They’re part of the strength of

the nation and this country and its citizens appreciate that.”

 

Winners must have given outstanding service in his or her career field, demonstrated honor and integrity during their career and personal life and be viewed as a role model for young Americans.

 

“I’m honored that a member of the Army has been selected to receive the award,” Tovo said. “It highlights the nation’s respect for what the Army is doing for the country right now.”

 

The AutoZone Liberty Bowl is scheduled to be broadcast on both radio and television Jan. 2.

 

The game will feature a match-up of teams from Conference USA and the Southeastern Conference.

Uncategorized

December 08 Update

Dear Proud to Be ’83,

I wanted to send a quick note wishing you all a healthy and happy

holiday season and to update you on a few class events and

initiatives.

 Army/ Navy Game


Long time tailgate Czar Mark Sullivan has asked that following the game Proud to Be '83 congregate at McFadden’s in the RIGHT BACK REAR of the restaurant.  Stop by and have a drink or two.

   
Class Gift

The run-off vote for the class gift is complete and the Global Leadership Center was selected by the class.  All three original options were worthwhile and many of us would have been happy with either.   I ask now that we all rally behind the selected gift and support its success.  We have the unique opportunity to be in on the ground floor with a project that is sustainable and is the hallmark of West Point and everything we represent.

Class Coin

The Class Leadership is in the process of procuring class coins for sale as a fund raiser for a donation to the Wounded Warrior Foundation.  BG Scott Miller recommended at the reunion class meeting that this would be the best area to support those on Active Duty.  The coin will have the Class Crest on one side and large numbers “83” on the back.  More to follow after the New Year.

Proud to Be ’83 Cadet Spirit Award


The Class of 1983 is in the process of establishing an Endowed Cadet Award to recognize the highest ranking cadet involved in cadet spirit.  The Class is currently planning to make its first presentation of the Award in the Spring of 2009 during the cadet spirit dinner to the Brigade Cadet Spirit MWR Officer.  We were looking to do something positive to recognize a particular cadet’s or groups’ efforts, yet felt the nature of the award should represent the class in some manner.  The Proud to Be ’83 Cadet Spirit Award does just that – recognizes the cadet and honors the spirit of our class.  There are numerous award venues that classes and individuals looking to do something positive for the Corps can pursue.  My time on USMA staff made me aware of these venues, hence the award.  The first presenter will be one of our class members still on Active Duty.  The Award will be an M9 Bayonet.  Those looking to endow individual special awards should contact Nancy Hannigan, AG, ASB, Nancy.Hannigan@usma.edu , Ph (845) 938-3404 for ideas.
 
Beat Navy and Happy New Year.
 
Pete aka Fizzer

Uncategorized

Danny Kellas

Dear Proud to Be ’83,

It is with much sadness that I pass on news of Danny Kellas’ passing on 9 December.  Address for donations is:

7605 Summerwood Lane, Charlotte, NC  28270

Here is Danny's USMA Eulogy Page

 

Daniel Bruce Kellas

 

Danny Kellas, 47, of Charlotte, went to be with the Lord

Tuesday afternoon, December 9, 2008.

 

Danny’s immediate family includes his parents,

Mr. and Mrs. Carter and Terry Kellas of Winchester, VA;

his wife,Barbara Kellas of Charlotte;

his children, Brian Stevens of Fayetteville, NC,

Sarah Kellas and Matthew Kellas of Charlotte;

his sisters, Elizabeth Burton and Susan Hill both of Winchester, VA

 

As previous Chairman of the Board of Lake Park Christian Academy,

it is only appropriate to come together to remember Danny at a place he loved so dear.

    A celebration of Danny’s life was held:

3:00 PM Friday

December 12, 2008

Central Academy at Lake Park

3624 Lake Park Rd.

Indian Trail, NC 28079

 

As a member of Elevation Church,

Danny’s pastor, Larry Brey officiated.

 

The family casually greeted friends following the service.

 

In lieu of flowers,

Church members, neighbors, and loved ones have asked that

all who can, please remember the Kellas’ through financial support

as they reconstruct their lives from this untimely loss.

 

For friends and family in the Winchester, VA area that cannot travel to NC:

A celebration of Danny’s will also be held there at a date to be announced.

 

 

************************Subsequent emails ********************************

 

Bandits,

 

I want to give you an update on Danny’s Memorial Service.

 JJ and I attended the Memorial  Service for Danny at the Braddock Street United Methodist Church in his home town of Winchester, VA.  It was a very moving service.  The church was filled and JJ remarked that it was fortunate that we arrived early.  It was truly standing room only.  There was no sermon given by a minister but as you can see from the program Danny’s Aunt, two best friends from high school and sisters gave very moving tributes to Danny.  Some were funny and some were serious but they all had a similar theme in that Danny never met a stranger.

 After the service JJ and I attended a reception at the home of Danny’s sister Beth.  At the reception JJ and I had a chance to meet all of Danny’s family including his son and daughter.  

 

Additionally, the family has requested that contributions are made to the Danny Kellas Children’s Education Fund at Summit Bank, 100 W. Jubal Early Drive, Winchester, VA 22601 to the attention of Steven Tavenner.  If we want to contribute as a class I am more than happy to collect and send to the fund.  If we want to give individually you have the address.

 JT

 

This can help:
 
http://www.winchesterstar.com/dreamweaver_files/www/20081220/Images/kellas00.jpg
 


Mark Connors asked Johnny and me today if we could write Danny's obituary for the Assembly magazine.  I agreed on our behalf so if you all can start thinking of material we can use to incorporate into a first draft, can you please pass along?  We'll reach out to his family and friends.

Thanks

JJ

   
   
   
   
   

JT,

 

Great summary.  I'll admit I shed a couple of tears during the very moving service.  If I may I'd like to add a couple things…

All (Danny's parents, sisters, family and friends) were extremely happy that Johnny and I could attend and represent USMA and, specifically, his classmates and company mates.  We passed on to everyone we talked to that we were representing all of his friends from '83 and B-3 who were not able to attend.  We relayed that word of Danny's passing was slow to get out to the general West Point community as it was such a shock but we were helping to spread the news to all his many friends and they would most likely hear from others.  Danny's mom told us she received a call from our classmate Chuck McGould, who was married to Danny's sister Beth for a while, and thanked us repeatedly for attendi! ng and representing West Point.  His West Point years and accomplishments were repeatedly mentioned during the ceremony remembrances.

There weren't a lot of additional details provided around the cause of Danny's death.  Pretty much still a mystery – acute abdominal pains which drove him to go to the hospital, some quick surgery (thought he had an aneurysm in his torso) to address the issue, was awake and sitting up after surgery, then suddenly lapsed into a coma from which he never responded.

Danny was truly a star in the small town of Winchester as attested to the number of people attending yesterday.  Recently (think in September or October of this year) he was inducted into his high school's athletic Hall of Fame – captain of his tennis team, after only picking up a tennis racket for the first time his freshman year and without any formal tennis instruction, that won state tit! les his junior and senior year.  We heard it was one of the highlights of his life in recent years and no one smiled brighter during the ceremonies.  Johnny provided the program in his earlier message which includes a picture of Danny and his two best friends from high school during the Hall of Fame ceremonies.  Both friends, Boots and Steve, gave very moving tributes to Danny yesterday.

Johnny and I are tentatively planning on attending the Winchester Apple Blossom Festival during the first week in May.  I remember Danny fondly talking about it and saying you have to attend some time.  Pretty big deal for Winchester when the year 'round 20K population swells to 250K that week.  Danny's parents and sisters asked that we contact them if we were going to attend so we could get together again.  As we get closer we'll reach out to everyone, particularly those who are in the DC area at the time (Winchester is! about an hour and 15 minutes or so from the VA side of the Beltway) to see who'd like to attend and meet Danny's family.

All the best to everyone in 2009.

JJ

 
 
   
 

This is a pdf of Danny's Memorial Service Pamphlet

 

 
   

Uncategorized

Len McWherter’s Daughter

 

The following story features Len McWherter's dughter who plays for the University of Washington:

 http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/columns/story?columnist=hays_graham&id=4224381

 

– The Comm/ Dean's briefing was both enlightening & comforting.  Cadets have so much more opportunities these days.  And the military training is ratcheting up.  I can't help but wonder if I would have been accepted these days – much less survive 4 years and graduate.

– The dinner Friday night was a blur, but followed a general pattern: see someone you have not seen in years; handshakes & hugs; reminisce; exchange contact info; move on after far too short of a time.

– Our women classmates shared center stage for a photo and I couldn't help but think about what they had to endure to get to that spot.  I'm in awe.

– The natural instinctive response of myself and my classmates as we were told to "form up behind section G" for Saturday's review – until we all collectively realized that "forming up" was at best an optimistic notion.  More appropriate would have been "Gaggle formation, move!"

– As we waited for the review to start, the lone irreverent voice heard above the hum of our class: "If you're taller than the man in front of you, move-up!"

– The actual double-regimental review was… comforting & familiar.  No real noticeable differences (except for the smaller size of the Corps).

– The President of El Salvador, Bobby Knight, and the Class of 83:  sharing the plain on the same day.

– Our Rifle Drill Team performed before the review.  I'm not a big fan.  I think it takes away from what follows.

– We had our own personal fly-by at the start of "Pass-in-Review".  A perfect formation of 4 geese flew over our class at low altitude just as the band started playing.

– Terrible, awful, horrendously bad chow for lunch in the Mess Hall.  I hope it's not indicative of what cadets are having to endure now.

– Highland Falls eating establishments delivering food to the cadet area?  Say it ain't so, Joe.  One of the premier bonding activities between classes was "You fly, I buy."   This great tradition has now gone the way of gray sweaters, star-days, Saturday classes, and boodlers.

– The wreath I made of old chipwich wrappers and rocky-road ice cream lids was laid at the base of what used to be Boodlers.  Of all the changes, this was by far the hardest to bear.

– The new library is magnificent.  But a coffee shop?  Go figure.

– Myself and my two roommates from last semester Firstie year (along with our spouses) visiting our old room.  The CQ was a bit overwhelmed and not sure what to do, but had the common sense to let us old farts have our moment.

– The room itself was a pig sty.  Now, don't get me wrong.  I was never the Strac-est of cadets, and me and my roommates were always getting written up for some room infraction.  But even at 2200 on a weekend, our room never looked that bad – much less on a Football Saturday.  Even I was shocked.

– Futon's in Firstie rooms?  Refrigerators?

– I was standing in line waiting to get into Michie stadium (is it really necessary to wand grads?), and asked the Yearling behind me (who was all but making out with his date) if the President of El Salvador had granted amnesty.  He looked at me as if I had grown a third eye.  When I explained the tradition, he told me "that must have been how it was back then, but things have changed a lot over the years."  It was all I could do to hold myself back and not rip into the BJ yearling.

– Feeling totally and completely smug as the President of El Salvador announced amnesty during the football game.

– The football game itself was pitiful.  But no one really cared.  We were all too busy continuing our catching up.

– I spent a good part of the third quarter chatting with COL Billy Don Farris, a classmate and company mate (Go Bandits!).  For those of you who may not be aware, Billy Don was severely wounded in Iraq while Commanding a Brigade from the 82nd.  He spent 4 months in the hospital and then returned to his command in Iraq to finish his tour.  My heart overflows with love for this man and the many like him who stand in harm's way.

– A small group of my company mates and room mates went to dinner Saturday night.  It was one of the most enjoyable moments in my life.  The sheer joy of the evening was indescribable.

– Parting was achingly painful.  But as my wife wiped a few tears from my face, I realized I had been blessed.  I may not be particularly special, but I knew & served with very special men.

Proud to Be.

-Mike

 

Uncategorized

Recent Newspaper Article – Holden Family

Holden will follow father's lead

Royal midfielder selects West Point, Army after college

By Paul Shepherd / Star correspondent

Posted: September 25, 2008

Olivia Holden never sought this out.

The Hamilton Southeastern High School senior grew up on military bases. Her father, Col. Christopher Holden, was a 1983 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and served nearly a quarter-century in the Army until recently retiring.

 

Following in her father's footsteps was never in Holden's plans until this summer when Army assistant coach Stefanie Golan expressed interest in Holden while scouting a soccer tournament in Nashville. She quickly emerged as one of Golan's top recruits.

Golan was unaware of Holden's lineage at the time. Holden and her father both said the decision to attend West Point was her own.

"I think it's a great opportunity," said Holden, a starting midfielder for the Hamilton Southeastern girls soccer team. "When deciding on colleges, I knew I wanted to go somewhere that was more than just about me. I wanted to make a difference. I knew I could make a difference at West Point."

Holden is committed to the Army for five years as part of her service requirement. She will head to basic training next summer before practicing with her new soccer teammates. Life at the academy is much different than in a college setting, however. Holden could follow in her father's own footsteps.

Christopher Holden, who served three separate tours of duty in the war in Iraq in 2004, '05 and '06, now trains each deploying brigade on Iraqi culture and one day could train his daughter.

"(Olivia could go to) Iraq, Afghanistan or anywhere else," Christopher Holden said.

"She knows what she's getting into. She's moved 11 times over the last 17 years of her life. She saw her father deployed for combat several times. She's a pretty smart girl. I'm just very proud of her."

Holden was born in Hawaii and has lived in 11 states. She and her family, which includes her mother, Aimee, and younger sister, Grace, relocated from Georgia to Fishers during Holden's sophomore year. The Holden family's longest stint in one area was four years along the Hudson River about 40 miles north of New York City, when they were stationed at West Point.

Moving often has shaped her, Holden said.

"I think it's helped me make new friends in the long run and adjust to new situations a lot easier," she said.

Holden directs the Royals' attack from the midfield position. She led the team last year with eight assists and is leading again this year with seven. Holden is the Royals' "playmaker" said coach Greg Davidson. Fifth-ranked HSE took a 7-1-2 record into Wednesday's game at Westfield. The Royals play Saturday at Brownsburg.

"I'm really proud of my team," Holden said. "Last year, we didn't have such a great year. My coach just expected a lot from us this year. Everyone has definitely stepped up and is playing their best. It's exciting."

Davidson wasn't surprised by Holden's decision.

"She kept it in the family," Davidson said. "What a kid to be able to do that. She's got the best work ethic on the team. Just her character and her work ethic . . . . All the right pieces of the puzzle aligned for her to do this."

Holden knows she can turn to her father for advice but insisted the decision remains hers alone.

"He let me go through the process and make my own decision," Holden said. "He wants me to go to West Point, not because I'm following in his footsteps. He wants me to go because I want to go there."

 

30 Yr Reunion

Reunion Reminiscing and Echos…

 

(The following was submitted by Mike Lee '83 who attended his 25th Reunion during the third weekend of September…with all apologies to LTG(R) Lennox, his old English P!)

The Class of 83 celebrated it's 25th this past weekend.  Some thoughts and memories…

– Woops has perfected it's own version of the Fountain of Youth.  For a little over three days, we were all 22 again.  In spirit, if not in body.

– Although there have been many changes (physical as well as fundamental), the place really is timeless.  But ultimately, it's not about the place – how it's changed or remained the same.  It's about the core of our shared experiences.  And there are far more things that bind us than separate us.

– The memorial service was overwhelmingly sad, but also comforting.  And I can't help but think the list of names will start growing rapidly soon.

– There are far too many fresh graves in the cemetery.

– The beauty of the place remains stunning.  And four near-perfect early fall days only complemented its majesty.

– The IOCT was set up in the recently renovated gym and a bunch of us (with our spouses) stopped by to take a look.  Bad mistake.  20 more years of therapy.

– There is something incredibly ironic, if not a bit sad (in a "Death of a Salesman" sort of way) in seeing each one of us fail to make it onto the ledge and then have a 5' 0" female cadet scamper up like it was nothing.

– We had a couple of DPE P's who were kind enough to give Billy K. a "high zero" on his leap over the vault. 

– The Comm/ Dean's briefing was both enlightening & comforting.  Cadets have so much more opportunities these days.  And the military training is ratcheting up.  I can't help but wonder if I would have been accepted these days – much less survive 4 years and graduate.

– The dinner Friday night was a blur, but followed a general pattern: see someone you have not seen in years; handshakes & hugs; reminisce; exchange contact info; move on after far too short of a time.

– Our women classmates shared center stage for a photo and I couldn't help but think about what they had to endure to get to that spot.  I'm in awe.

– The natural instinctive response of myself and my classmates as we were told to "form up behind section G" for Saturday's review – until we all collectively realized that "forming up" was at best an optimistic notion.  More appropriate would have been "Gaggle formation, move!"

– As we waited for the review to start, the lone irreverent voice heard above the hum of our class: "If you're taller than the man in front of you, move-up!"

– The actual double-regimental review was… comforting & familiar.  No real noticeable differences (except for the smaller size of the Corps).

– The President of El Salvador, Bobby Knight, and the Class of 83:  sharing the plain on the same day.

– Our Rifle Drill Team performed before the review.  I'm not a big fan.  I think it takes away from what follows.

– We had our own personal fly-by at the start of "Pass-in-Review".  A perfect formation of 4 geese flew over our class at low altitude just as the band started playing.

– Terrible, awful, horrendously bad chow for lunch in the Mess Hall.  I hope it's not indicative of what cadets are having to endure now.

– Highland Falls eating establishments delivering food to the cadet area?  Say it ain't so, Joe.  One of the premier bonding activities between classes was "You fly, I buy."   This great tradition has now gone the way of gray sweaters, star-days, Saturday classes, and boodlers.

– The wreath I made of old chipwich wrappers and rocky-road ice cream lids was laid at the base of what used to be Boodlers.  Of all the changes, this was by far the hardest to bear.

– The new library is magnificent.  But a coffee shop?  Go figure.

– Myself and my two roommates from last semester Firstie year (along with our spouses) visiting our old room.  The CQ was a bit overwhelmed and not sure what to do, but had the common sense to let us old farts have our moment.

– The room itself was a pig sty.  Now, don't get me wrong.  I was never the Strac-est of cadets, and me and my roommates were always getting written up for some room infraction.  But even at 2200 on a weekend, our room never looked that bad – much less on a Football Saturday.  Even I was shocked.

– Futon's in Firstie rooms?  Refrigerators?

– I was standing in line waiting to get into Michie stadium (is it really necessary to wand grads?), and asked the Yearling behind me (who was all but making out with his date) if the President of El Salvador had granted amnesty.  He looked at me as if I had grown a third eye.  When I explained the tradition, he told me "that must have been how it was back then, but things have changed a lot over the years."  It was all I could do to hold myself back and not rip into the BJ yearling.

– Feeling totally and completely smug as the President of El Salvador announced amnesty during the football game.

– The football game itself was pitiful.  But no one really cared.  We were all too busy continuing our catching up.

– I spent a good part of the third quarter chatting with COL Billy Don Farris, a classmate and company mate (Go Bandits!).  For those of you who may not be aware, Billy Don was severely wounded in Iraq while Commanding a Brigade from the 82nd.  He spent 4 months in the hospital and then returned to his command in Iraq to finish his tour.  My heart overflows with love for this man and the many like him who stand in harm's way.

– A small group of my company mates and room mates went to dinner Saturday night.  It was one of the most enjoyable moments in my life.  The sheer joy of the evening was indescribable.

– Parting was achingly painful.  But as my wife wiped a few tears from my face, I realized I had been blessed.  I may not be particularly special, but I knew & served with very special men.

Proud to Be.

-Mike

 

Proud to Be '83