West Point Class of 1987

I got some interesting "poop" today that is definately worthy of sharing now, instead of waiting until the Assembly is published in Spring 2010....Does anyone know what a PUSMA is? That’s right, a Professor, USMA and we have our 1st from the Class of 87. Congratulations to COL Bernie Banks!

USMA has 30 COL who carry the title of PUSMA; and the role entitles one to voluntarily stay in their role until age 64 (remember that old English PUSMA that seemed older than time?) and retire as a BG. Here's the official announcement which I have taken the liberty of pasting in its entirety because it speaks highly of the honors that Bernie has accumulated in 22+ years of military service...well done Bernie and good luck finishing up your PhD and donning the PUSMA title!

"The Superintendent has accepted the recommendation of the Academic Board that Colonel Bernard Banks be nominated as Professor, US Military Academy and Deputy Head of the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership. Colonel Banks, a 1987 graduate of the Academy and former Sprint Football player, currently serves as the director of the Leadership major in the Leadership and Management Studies Program. Colonel Banks holds five master’s degrees, including a Master’s in Public Administration from the JFK School at Harvard, a Master’s of Business Administration from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School, and a Master’s of Strategic Studies from the US Army War College. He is currently completing requirements for the PhD in Social-Organizational Psychology from Columbia University. He is a winner of three graduate fellowships, including the prestigious Alumni Public Service Fellowship at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. He earned the Master Teacher Certificate from West Point’s Center for Teaching Excellence in 2004.

In addition to his academic achievements, COL Banks has distinguished himself as a remarkable Soldier and leader. He is a recipient of the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award as a company grade leader, and was selected below the zone for promotion to Major. A veteran of Desert Storm, Banks commanded an Apache attack helicopter squadron earning the 2005 Aviation Unit of the Year in the Republic of Korea. He was the Distinguished Honor Graduate of his Ranger course, Distinguished Honor Graduate in flight school, Honor Graduate of his Officer Advanced Course as well as graduating with honors from five other joint or Army schools. COL Banks has been assigned in the Pentagon, Office of the Chief of Staff, Army, and as a White House Social Aide under President Bill Clinton.

Congratulations to Bernie, Candice, Jemi, Aliyah, Hayes, Brooke, Jordon and the entire Banks family on this opportunity to serve cadets, the Academy, and the Army." signed, COL Thomas A Kolditz, PhD (Dept Chair)

Cheers
Ted