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MEMORIAL ARTICLE
Published Assembly Dec '78
BENJAMIN TULLIDGE HILL No. 15558 Class of 1946
Died 21 January 1970 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, aged 46
years. Interment: West Point Cemetery, West Point, New York |
Benjamin Tullidge Hill - Affectionately known as "Big
Ben"-was indeed a very special person to family, friends,
and acquaintances. Originating from Richmond, Indiana, Ben brought
to West Point a strength of character, a zest for life, and an
unparalleled degree of warmth and understanding of people which
guided him to ever increasing successes in the years to follow.
Education at Amherst and the University of Virginia were major
contributors to his maturity, knowledge, friendliness, and repertoire
of songs. Ben's achievements at our Alma Mater were many and
are recorded history. But there is more than the record book:
"How well I remember Beast Barracks in July 1943. At
one formation we were literally thrown together and discovered
after much unauthorized talk, we were fellow Hoosiers. From that
moment on we had formed a bond 0' friendship that lasted his
lifetime. He just couldn't resist an opportunity to relate to
another person." (J.A. Day '46)
" No one can ever forget that handsome, broad shouldered,
and humorous cadet with the infectious smile and genuine personality
who could enliven dreary routine with his singing, storytelling,
and laughter; loved and respected by all--an excellent model
for others." (J.A. Hoefling and C.G. Williamson '46)
"An unlimited amount of feeling toward people-perceptive,
compassionate, gracious, eloquent, exuberant!" (R.L. Gruenther
'46)
Benjamin Tullidge Hill
Commissioned in the Ordnance Corps, his career took him through
the routine Army schools with a brief assignment at the Tank
Automotive Center. In 1948 he returned to the books at Rensselaer
Polytechnic Institute where he earned a degree in metallurgical
engineering. Next came the Army Procurement Center in Germany
where he continued to excel.
“Involved in the selection of contractors and negotiations
of proposals, he displayed a magnificent talent for leadership
... he was greatly respected and admired by both American and
German personnel." (Bill Fuller)
After a short tour in London, Ben was assigned to the Academy's
Ordnance Department. Although living was not too luxurious in
the "Grey Ghosts," Ben was able to compensate by camaraderie,
spontaneous class parties, and enduring friendships.
"Ben was an extraordinary person-enthusiastic, witty,
optimistic, personable, and a leader. As an Assistant Professor
he was a taskmaster who bore down on us until he was convinced
we would do outstanding jobs." (R.W. Samz '42)
While at Rensselaer, Ben had the good fortune to meet a certain
young lady, and overnight he changed from an avoider of entangling
alliances to one who had an enduring love. On 24 June 1950, Alma
and Ben were married at the Holy Trinity Chapel and a wonderful
life together commenced. In later years two daughters, Mary Anne
and Julie joined the Hill family. His daughters are now young
ladies who have fulfilled their father's dreams for them. Both
are honor students, and, more importantly, both have the same
breadth of character, integrity, and warmth for people as their
father.
“I hope, somehow, that Ben is aware at their accomplishments.
It was he who encouraged them in their formative years and it
is his memory that continues to inspire them." (His Wife)
In 1956 Ben made a difficult decision, and left a profession
he enjoyed and respected. Among his talents was salesmanship.
This led him to the Allegheny-Ludlum Steel Corporation where
he rose rapidly in the business world and was headed for top
management.
“On numerous occasions in business, where he held successively
more responsible managerial positions, he accomplished consistently
the impossible . . . he had a quality of wisdom, of understanding
combined with strength of perseverance that had a most positive
influence on so many. As a dear friend who gave me support, as
a close business colleague, as a man dedicated to his family's
welfare, Ben Hill was one of a kind." (Joseph Kennedy, Allegheny-Ludlum)
In late 1969 came the devastating, unexpected news that Ben
had inoperable lung cancer. He fought hard, suffered terribly,
never relinquished hope, and silently prayed. Death came
in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on 21 January 1970. Ben Hill left
a clear trail of bright memories for us; we are thankful for
them. Our lives and the lives of those he touched are better
for his unrivalled enthusiasm, generosity, notable deeds, relationship
with his parents, and his example of family man, Army officer,
and business leader.
Classmate, roommate, and the closest of friends, Frank
Blazey '46
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