This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 16 – 22 SEP

Brothers,
[Reminder: To see the complete work including pictures, go to www.sigepblog.org.]

“We who have a deep concern for our Fraternity chapter are vitally conscious of the importance of its history. History is tradition and if we are wise, we seek guidance and discipline in tradition. But we observe sadly that events of importance, here today, have a way of becoming lost very quickly in the dim yesterdays. And if we are to make use of our history we cannot be satisfied to let significant events remain buried.”

~ Brother Pedro Campa, Illinois; from the Sigma Phi Epsilon Journal, Volume 67, Number 4, published May 1970

Even though today is the day after POW/MIA Remembrance Day, the SigEp Patriots Project (SPP) believes it is important to always honor the following Brothers who were prisoners of war and those who are still missing in action:

Robert Douglas Avery – MIA & POW, TN Gamma ‘65

Paul S. Beard – POW, OH Epsilon ‘04
Heywood Davis – POW, DC Alpha
William C.A. Enke – POW, MT Alpha
Elmer J. Gray – POW, PA Delta
James Downs Latham – POW, KS Beta ‘69
George Robert Law – POW, WI Alpha ‘34
John “Bill” William Rambo, Sr. – POW, TN Alpha ‘58
Waldo E. Schmitt – MIA & POW, DC Alpha ‘40
John R. Vaughn – POW, CO Gamma ‘38
Edgar A. Waite, Jr. – POW, PA Delta ‘49

NEVER FORGOTTEN

18 SEP 1946

World War II Veteran and CA Alpha Brother Captain William E. Turpen, U.S. Army was discharged on this date after more than six years of service.

NH Alpha Brother
James V. Forrestal

17 SEP 1947

On this date, President Truman’s selection as first U.S. Secretary of Defense was sworn in – World War I Veteran and NH Alpha Brother Lieutenant James Vincent Forrestal, U.S. Navy Reserve. During the same week three years later, a bronze bust of Brother Forrestal was unveiled at the Mall entrance to the Pentagon (22 SEP 1950).

22 SEP 1995

AZ Beta Brother (then) Captain Alan Mark “Vodka” Gemmill, U.S. Navy completed his tour as Commanding Officer of the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) on this date.

20 SEP 2008

On this date, Operation DESERT STORM Veteran MO Lambda Brother Jay Scott Danner, U.S. Air National Guard (Missouri) died at St. Francis Hospital, Tulsa, Oklahoma at the age of 43.

Scott was born in 1964 in Maryville, MO, and graduated from Northwest Missouri State University in 1988 with a BS degree in Business Administration. He worked for Philip Morris USA for 19 years and his final job was as a Unit Manager.

Respect can be paid to Brother Danner at Prairie Home Cemetery, Graham, MO.

Last Week in SigEp Patriot History, 09 – 15 SEP

Brothers,

13 SEP 1944

World War II Veteran and UT Alpha Brother Lieutenant Paul Pratt Reeder, U.S. Navy made the ultimate sacrifice on this date. Brother Reeder was a pilot with VT-22 off of the USS Cowpens (CVL-25) when he was killed in action when his TBM-1C Avenger crashed during the bombing of Negros Island, Philippines. He entered the Naval Air Corps in OCT 1941, and was commissioned JUL 1942 in Corpus Christi, TX. Before he was killed Brother Reeder had participated in four major battles against the Japanese.

Respect can be paid to Brother Reeder at Plot C-41-10 at Smithfield City Cemetery, Smithfield.

14 SEP 1998

On this date, U.S. Army Air Forces World War II Veteran, Secretary of the Navy, Assistant Secretary of the Army, SigEp Citation Recipient and TX Alpha Brother Frederick Herman Korth, 89, died at his home in El Paso, Texas. After graduating from the University of Texas and receiving a law degree from George Washington University, he returned to Fort Worth to practice law, and joined the Air Transport Command with the outbreak of WWII.

TX Alpha Brother
Frederick H. Korth
World War II Veteran

After the war, Fred became president of Continental National Bank, a post he left for two years to serve as an assistant secretary of the Army in the Truman Administration. In 1962, President Kennedy appointed Brother Korth the 57th Secretary of the Navy. It was here that Fred Korth was a part of history in two respects.

 

During those 13 dark days in October 1962, the U.S. Navy stood their ground staring down Soviet freighters carrying nuclear weapons to Cuba. Fred also fought to upgrade our Navy's ships. He saw that nuclear powered ships were the future and that they would be the most effective way to transport our troops and defend our borders. While not successful in making this change at first, time proved him right. After serving as Secretary of the Navy, Brother Korth spent the next 36 years practicing law with his son in Washington, DC.

In 1965, Fred was presented the SigEp Citation.

Brother Korth was laid to rest under a three century old Texas Live Oak on his ranch.

10 SEP 2008

NY Beta Brother Robert S. Spangler died on this date in Concord, North Carolina. He was a veteran, a retired salesman and marketer, and active in the community.

14 SEP 2010

On this date, U.S. Navy Medical Services Corps World War II Veteran and NC Epsilon Brother Samuel Adamson Burgess, Jr. died in Raleigh, North Carolina. Sam studied at Davidson College until he was old enough to volunteer for service in the Navy, Upon the completion of his military service, he returned to Davidson and graduated in 1948.


NC Epsilon Brother
Samuel A Burgess, Jr
U.S. Navy World War II Veteran

After attending the School of Business at Columbia University in New York City, Brother Burgess was employed in the cashier’s office of the Equitable Life Assurance Society in Harrisburg, PA for a year before entering Union Theological Seminary in Richmond, VA to study for the Presbyterian ministry. Upon graduation in 1952, he was ordained in Sparta, NC by the Presbytery of Winston-Salem and called to the Elkin Presbyterian Church in Elkin, NC.

Sam and his wife soon went to Scotland to engage in Form Critical New Testament Studies at the University of St. Andrews. Upon completing his studies, Sam returned home and became the organizing pastor of a new Presbyterian church in Garner, NC in 1956. During his pastorate, Sam served as a Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in 1960, 1976, and 1984. Love of community and people led him to serve in various offices and organizations including Boards of Directors of the American Cancer Society and the Triangle Counseling Center, president of the local PTA, and Chaplain for many years at the Garner Civitan Club. Upon retirement in 1990, Sam volunteered his time tutoring students in the field of reading at Vandora Springs Elementary School and providing support to patients as a volunteer at Rex Hospital.

Respect can be paid to Brother Burgess at Williamsburg Cemetery, Kingstree, SC.

09 SEP 2012

U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and NH Alpha Brother Edward “Ted” Robert Haskell, 84, died on this date at Southern Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine with his family by his side. Following high school, Ted was accepted at Dartmouth College and then deferred, enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1947. After proudly serving in the Marine Corps, he attended Dartmouth, played on the hockey team, and received a business management degree in the Class of 1952.

Brother Haskell worked with his dad to create the Robert Haskell Company, an office products organization, originating in Beverly, MA in 1953. Following the early passing of his dad and the advent of computer technology, the company evolved into Systems Automation, Inc (SAI), and Ted worked to take SAI from one of the prominent Boston area office automation and computer networking companies to one of the nation’s top office automation dealerships.

Ted was a member of the Salem Five Cent Savings Bank Board of Trustees for over 20 years National Association of Accountants, and the Salem Massachusetts Rotary Club Dartmouth College.

Respect can be paid to Brother Haskell at Swampscot Cemetery in Swampscot, MA.

IA Beta Brother
Whitney McCormack
World War II Veteran

10 SEP 2012



World War II Veteran and IA Beta Brother First Lieutenant Whitney “Whit” McCormack, U.S. Army Air Corps died on this date. He was 89 years old. During his three years of WWII service Whit flew C-54 cargo aircraft. Brother McCormack was a longtime member of the Sons of the American Revolution, and worked for Chance Vought or its successors, Northrop and Lockheed Martin.

Respect can be paid to Brother McCormack at Dallas/Fort Worth National Cemetery.

RECENT LOSSES TO THE ROLL

* NY Beta Brother Lieutenant Colonel James F. Jerome, U.S. Army Reserve (Retired) passed away 05 SEP in Watertown, New York at the age of 83.
* U.S. World War II Veteran and AL Alpha Brother Robert Jones Bedwell passed away 14 SEP in Piedmont, Alabama. Bob graduated from high school in 1944, served in the latter part of World War II, and went to Auburn University after completion of his military service. Funeral services will be at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Montgomery AL, tomorrow at 2:00pm with visitation one hour prior to the service.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends and chapter brothers of SigEp Patriots Jerome and Bedwell. While they are no longer with us, the greatest casualty is being forgotten, and the SigEp Patriots Project (SPP) pledges these Brothers will always be remembered.

SPP UPDATE

* As of this writing, the archives of SPP now contain the names of 4,302 SigEp Patriots!
* SPP’s official Facebook group – SigEps Who Serve – now numbers 618 such Brothers.
* Not on Facebook. No problem, SPP has an email listserve with over 100 Brothers! Just drop me an email.

Did you serve or know a Brother who does? If so, please let us know by emailing sigepswhoserve@gmail.com or go to http://www.facebook.com/groups/sigepswhoserve to join your brothers-in-arms. We will ask for your home chapter, rank, branch of service, military status (active, reserve, retired, etc.), and whether you are a combat veteran. Please help SPP find our fellow SigEp Patriots by sending them the link.

Fraternally and Respectfully,

Brother Ed Jones, NY Eta ‘96
Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy Reserve
Founder, SigEp Patriots Project

sigepswhoserve@gmail.com

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This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 17 – 23 DEC

Brothers,

While it is terrific that some SigEp Patriots have recently returned home from service overseas, it important to remember that brothers (and other Americans serving to defend our country) are still standing duty in Iraq, Afghanistan, the Horn of Africa, Bahrain, Kuwait and other parts of the world. Please keep them in mind when you express your thanks this holiday season, and always remember the sacrifices they make all year.

19 DEC 1917

World War I Veteran and OH Gamma Brother Robert Lester Tavenner was promoted to the rank of First Lieutenant on this date.

22 DEC 1944

On this date, after being presented a proposal for the surrender of the troops under his command at Bastogne, WV Beta Brother Brigadier General Anthony Clement McAuliffe, U.S. Army spoke the most famous quote of World War II: “Nuts!”

To read the entire story go to http://www.sigepblog.org/2012/12/22-december.html#idc-container

20 DEC 1968

World War II Veteran and VT Alpha Brother Raymond J. McGarry died on this date at the age of 64 in the Veterans Hospital at White River Junction, Vermont after a short illness.

Respect can be paid to Brother McGarry at the Calvary Cemetery in Rutland, Vermont.

19 DEC 1979
Mexican War and World War I Veteran CO Beta Brother Colonel Maurice C. Bigelow, U.S. Army died on this date. Maurice became a member of the Colorado National Guard in 1908, and graduated from the University of Denver in 1912 before studying law for two years at UD and another two semesters at the University of Munich. After graduation, he returned to the States and worked briefly at a bank before he was mobilized to the Mexican border with the First Colorado Infantry. When the U.S. declared war on Germany, his unit was immediately redesignated the 157th Infantry. Brother Bigelow was made a captain in the 157th Infantry and sent to Europe where he commanded the machine gun company of that regiment.

While overseas he was transferred to the First Division, which suffered over 100% casualties. At the outset the division numbered approximately 28,000 men and 31,000 men, including replacements, were lost in the conflicts in which this division was engaged. Even so, Maurice was never wounded. He proved to be a very efficient officer and gained much practical experience in the science of military tactics. He returned from Germany with the Third Machine Gun Battalion, First Division – the first to be sent to Europe for the war and the last to return.

After his return, Maurice was sent to several commands before being detailed to Fort Benning, Georgia where he attended the infantry school and graduated in 1923.

OWA State College in Ames, Iowa secured the services of Brother Bigelow to be assistant professor of Military Science and Tactics on a four years detail. He instructed in machine guns and automatic weapons, and their use in modern warfare.

Respect can be paid to Brother Bigelow at Section 4, Site 2701, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia.

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 14 – 20 MAY

Brothers,

Happy Armed Forces Day to all SigEps who serve – past and present! The day was created in 1949 to honor Americans serving in the five U.S. military branches – the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard – following the consolidation of the military services in the Department of Defense (under the first Secretary of Defense, World War I Veteran and NH Alpha Brother James V. Forrestal).

Yesterday, just before the periodontist started scrapping part of my gums, the conversation turned to the global war on terrorism and the operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. The young and compassionate dental assistant said, “You don’t hear enough about the good work done by U.S. service members in Afghanistan. Ya know, I don’t know anyone in the military.”

I see two important points here.

Without sounding like one of those people who thinks the “main stream media” has a grand plan against society, this humble observer believes there is a considerable focus on negative stories that cast a poor light on the U.S. military in Afghanistan.

That said, there are news items and websites about “good news stories” out of Afghanistan, and if people don’t “hear” it is because they are not listening.

As for the second point, a few years ago, I was watching a television show attempting to explain the current disconnect between the American public and members of the U.S. military. During the show it was stated that during World War II one in three Americans directly knew someone in the military. Today, that number is estimated to be one in eight. As we all know, it is natural to support someone with which you have a personal connection.

With this in mind, the SigEp Patriots Project continues its efforts to assist others in learning about, remembering and hopefully connecting with those patriotic brothers past and present who allow us to live our lives in freedom.

19 MAY 1944

On this date, World War I Veteran and NH Alpha Brother James Vincent Forrestal became Secretary of the Navy. He guided the Navy through the last year of the war and the two difficult years of demobilization after the Japanese surrender. Brother Forrestal served during WWI as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy Reserve, and would go on to become the first Secretary of Defense.

15 MAY 1973 / 15 MAY 1974

May is a meaningful month for AL Alpha Brother Colonel Wallace Jack Paschal II, U.S. Air Force. Before he joined the Air Force, Brother Paschall enlisted in the Alabama National Guard as a draftsman, 15 MAY 1973. A year later, he was promoted to Private First Class.

16 MAY 1981 / 16 MAY 1984

May also holds meaning for Operation IRAQI FREEDOM Veteran and VT Gamma Brother Major General Michael D. Dubie, U.S. Air National Guard (Vermont). On these dates, Brother Dubie was promoted to Second Lieutenant and First Lieutenant, respectively.

20 MAY 2005

On this date, U.S. Army World War II D-Day Veteran DE Alpha Brother Robert L. Snowberger died at his home in Wilmington, Delaware.

Robert, affectionately known as "Grumps" by his grandchildren, graduated from A.I. DuPont High School and was an all-state football player. He served with distinction in the U.S. Army during World War II, participating in the Normandy Invasion at Omaha Beach on D-Day. He was awarded the Bronze Star for heroic action against an "out numbering enemy force" in Germany, 06 APR 1945. After military service, he went on to graduate from the University of Delaware, and then worked for the DuPont Company in advertising. Taking an early retirement, he became an independent manufacturer's representative and was actively involved in many entrepreneurial ventures.

19 MAY 2010

Two SigEp Patriots were lost to us on this date.

World War II Veteran and CO Delta Brother First Lieutenant Douglas Lawrence Pearce, U.S. Army Air Corps was born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and raised in Carbon County, Utah where his father worked as a mining engineer. Brother Pearce graduated with an engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines in 1942, and soon thereafter enlisted in the Army in Salt Lake City as a First Lieutenant, 9th Air Force. He served on active duty until 1946 and in reserves until 1949.

Respect can be paid to Brother Pearce at Highland Cemetery in Casper, Wyoming.

U.S. Army Reserve Veteran KS Epsilon Brother James R. Roth died at his home in Wichita, Kansas on this date. Brother Roth was a 1963 graduate of Emporia State University, where he majored in business and was a member of the golf and debate teams. Three years later, Jim graduate from Washburn University School of Law. He practiced law in Topeka for several years before moving to Wichita where he remained in private practice for more than 40 years. From 1966-1972, Brother Roth served in the U.S. Army Reserve. In 1992, the Governor of Kansas appointed him to the Washburn University Board of Regents, and he continued to serve on the Board for 18 years at the request of two subsequent governors – including four years as Chairman. Brother Roth was awarded the Distinguished Service Award from Washburn Law School (2005) and from the Washburn University Alumni Association (2010).

RECENT LOSS TO THE ROLL

29 APR – WA Alpha President Ensign Gordon Ernest Ruehl, U.S. Navy passed away in Spokane, Washington in his sleep nineteen months after being diagnosed with Mesothelioma (asbestos cancer). In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorials may be made to Hospice of Spokane, Westminster Congregational Church, to WSU School of Architecture c/o Greg Kessler, PO Box 64220, Pullman WA 99163 or to the charity of your choice.

12 MAY – World War II Navy Veteran, SigEp Citation Recipient and IL Gamma Founding Father Harold Arthur “Red” Poling passed away in Pacific Grove, California at the age of 86. In July 1943, at the age of 17 and just two weeks after graduating from high school, Red enlisted in the Navy and serves as an aviation cadet before being discharged in October 1945 following an injury. In 1993, the United States Navy Memorial presented Brother Poling the Lone Sailor Award adding him to an impressive list of Navy veterans who have distinguished themselves by drawing upon their military experience to become successful in their subsequent careers and lives, while exemplifying the core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to friends, family and chapter brothers of Gordon and Red, and the SigEp Patriots Project pledges that their service will always be remembered. 

CELEBRATIONS!

WELCOME HOME! Operation IRAQI FREEDOM Veteran and FL Iota Brother Specialist Adam Pietri, U.S. Army returned from Kuwait last week. Adam’s unit, 2-8 CAV, 1BCT was among the last to withdraw from Iraq. On Thursday, two-time Operation IRAQI FREEDOM Veteran, Operation ENDURING FREEDOM Veteran and HI Alpha Brother Major Siegfried Ramil, U.S. Army returned from his tour in Afghanistan. Thanks to brothers Pietri and Ramil for their patriotic service.

Fraternally and Respectfully,

Brother Ed Jones, NY Eta ‘96
Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy Reserve
Founder, SigEp Patriots Project

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 30 APR – 06 MAY

Brothers,

This month, hundreds, perhaps thousands of patriotic Americans around the country will graduate from college, take the oath and receive their commission as officers in the U.S. military. Meanwhile, every day across this great land, Americans are signing up to join the military. The SigEp Patriots Project believes the beginning of this selfless journey is worthy of recognition, and it gives us another reason to be proud to call such men brother.

02 MAY 1918

On this date, NY Beta Brother (then) First Lieutenant James Armand Meissner, U.S. Army Air Service won his first aerial engagement while flying a French-made Nieuport 28 about three miles above Foret De La Rappe, France. Jimmy would go on to become a WWI Ace.

For his service on this date, Brother Meissner was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross in accordance with General Order 121, W.D., 1918,

“The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to James A. Meissner, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the Toul sector in 02 MAY 1918. First Lieutenant Meissner attacked three enemy planes at an altitude of 4,800 meters over the Foret De La Rappe, France. After a short fight he brought down one of the machines in flames. During the combat the entering wedge and the covering of the upper wings of his plane were torn away and after the battle he was subjected to heavy fire from antiaircraft batteries, but by skillful operation and cool judgment he succeeded in making a landing within the American lines.”

04 MAY 1925

Born in Ontario, Canada, World War I Veteran and Renaissance Brother Captain James Naismith, U.S. Army National Guard (Kansas) became a naturalized U.S. citizen on this date.

01 MAY 1942

MT Alpha Brother John Woodrow Bonner entered the U.S. Army on this date and served during World War II.

01 MAY 1956

On this date, World War II Veteran and VA Zeta Brother General Robert Jefferson Wood, U.S. Army became commanding general of Fort Bliss and commandant of the Antiaircraft Artillery and Guided Missile School.

02 MAY 1998

FL Theta Brother Lieutenant Commander Christopher Sacra, U.S. Navy began his military service on this date. Thank you Brother Sacra for 14 years (and going) of patriotic service!

01 MAY 1999

On this date, TN Theta Brother Kenneth Michael Ballard began his patriotic service in the U.S. Army.

05 MAY 2008

World War II Veteran and VT Alpha Brother Captain George Sander, U.S. Army Air Force of Whiting, New Jersey, died on this date.

George was born 04 JUL 1916 in Philadelphia, PA and raised in Ocean City.  He attended Norwich where he was part of the baseball team, basketball, team, track, intramurals, and was a member of the Junior Weekend and the Winter Carnival Committees.  He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering in 1938.

Following his service as a radar officer in the U.S. Army Air Force, he was a district sales manager for Johnson Controls and made his home in Baldwin, Long Island until his retirement in 1981.

Respect can be paid to Brother Sander at Section KS, Site 8479 of Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown, New Jersey.

01 MAY 2009

World War II Veteran and CO Delta Brother Ensign Floyd D. Burnside, U.S. Navy Air Corps died on this date.

Born in Westfield, Pennsylvania in 1922, Floyd met his wife Charlotte while attending Painted Post High School in New York. Floyd graduated from Colorado School of Mines with a professional degree in petroleum engineering, and in 1941, he enlisted with the Navy Air Corps serving as an ensign with Navy Squadrons 18 and 20 from 1941 to 1946.

On 03 JUL 1948, Floyd and Charlotte were married in Bath, NY. Together they traveled the world, climbing the pyramids in Egypt and kissing the Blarney Stone in Ireland. They raised their family in Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. Floyd spent 28 years with Shell Oil and also enjoyed several years as a petroleum instructor with his friend, Jerry Bond.

Respect can be paid to Brother Burnside at Section 26, Site 900 of Ft. Logan National Cemetery, Denver, Colorado.

RECENT LOSSES TO THE ROLL

* 19 APR – U.S. Army Veteran MO Gamma Brother Donald Preston Wilson, 78, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Roper, North Carolina.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the chapter brothers, family and friends of Brother Wilson. Unfortunately, this list is likely incomplete, and the small group of dedicated brothers working the SigEp Patriots Project could use your help. If you know of a brother patriot that has passed away we appreciate an email to sigepswhoserve@gmail.com.

SIGEP PATRIOTS PROJECT (SPP) UPDATE

* Two more brothers honored us this week by joining the SPP official Facebook group – SigEps Who Serve. It is our pleasure to welcome aboard MO Kappa Brother Jake Bauer who recently completed BCT, and AL Alpha Brother Staff Sergeant Chris Howard, U.S. Army.

* We are always looking for brothers-in-arms, and we hope you will reach out. Join us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/sigepswhoserve. Not on Facebook? Write to sigepswhoserve@gmail.com to join the listserve. In both cases, you will be asked to provide your military affiliation and home chapter.

Fraternally and Respectfully,

Brother Ed Jones, NY Eta ‘96
Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy Reserve
Founder, SigEp Patriots Project

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 16 – 22 APR

Brothers,

18 APR 1993

U.S. Army War II Veteran and OK Alpha Brother Carmon Coleman Harris of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma died on this date.

17 APR 2002

NY Alpha Brother Major Oscar Bomboy Millard, U.S. Army (Retired) died on this date. Oscar was born in Centralia, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Syracuse University with a business degree. Later he was a resident of Jacksonville and Atlantic Beach, FL. After retiring from the Army, Brother Millard had a career in Civil Service Finance before completely retiring. His memberships included Northeast Florida Chapter of the Retired Officers Association, Solomon Masonic Lodge #20, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Free Masonry.

Brother Millard was laid to rest with military honors, and respect can be paid to him at Arlington Park Cemetery, Jacksonville, FL.

16 APR 2005

On this date, an American hero entered the U.S. Army. Operation ENDURING FREEDOM Veteran and TN Eta Brother Captain Joshua Sean Lawrence, U.S. Army, who was killed in action in Kandahar, Afghanistan last year, raised his hand swearing to defend our country.

19 APR 2005

Operation IRAQI FREEDOM Veteran and NY Eta Brother Corporal Jacob M. “Puck” Pfister, U.S. Army made the ultimate sacrifice on this date in Baghdad, Iraq when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted patrol. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Georgia. Brother Pfister was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart and was posthumously promoted to corporal. He was 27 years old, and his wife was pregnant with their first child, Maddison.

Jacob grew up in Buffalo, NY and attended Grover Cleveland High School, where he played tight end on the football team and received a citizenship award at graduation. After attending Buffalo State College, he joined the Army and moved to Florida.

Jacob’s mom described her son as a serious man who loved his family. “The way he put it to me is, ‘Mom, who would you rather have over there defending you, me or some other joker?”’ That was classic Puck.

Donations may be made to the Maddison Pfister Fund, c/o J.P. Morgan Chase, 2300 Main Place Tower, Buffalo, NY 14202.
Respect can be paid to Brother Pfister at a memorial cenotaph located at Fort Stewart, GA, or at his gravesite at Saint Vincent de Paul Cemetery, Derby, New York.

20 APR 2006

World War II Veteran and DE Alpha Brother Pharmacist Mate Second Class Donald Lee Huston, U.S. Navy died on this date in Cape Coral, Florida. Don retired as a Civilian Personnel Management Specialist from the Department of Army.

Respect can be paid to Brother Huston at Section WIV, Row A, Site 19 of Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear, Delaware.

16 APR 2010

World War II Veteran and NC Delta Renaissance Brother Lieutenant Reginald Frederick “Mutt” McCoy, U.S. Army Air Corps died on this date in Laurinburg, North Carolina. During WWII he was stationed in North Africa, Italy and Corsica, and was awaiting transfer to the Pacific Theater when the war ended.

“The Legend of Laurinburg” was born there on 09 JAN 1916, attended local schools, and studied at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Before completing his college degree, he returned to Laurinburg to help support his mother and siblings and began a 60 year career in the Merchantile and Agribusiness sector that was interrupted by his service to the Nation. Mutt became President of John F. McNair, Inc. and later President and Chairman of McNair Investment Company.

He was awarded the Silver Beaver Award by Boy Scouts of America in 1957 and supported their work throughout his life. His son's chapter made him an honorary member.

21 APR 2011

U.S. Navy World War II Veteran NC Delta Chapter President Charles Taylor Foley died a year ago today in Stuart, Florida. He was 84 years old. Born and raised in Charlotte, NC, he wintered over in Stuart, while spending the summers in Oxford, OH where he had resided since 1970.

Charles attended the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill earning a degree in business administration after his service to the nation. He was extremely active at UNC, in addition to SigEp, he served as president of the YMCA on campus, sang in the Men's Glee Club, was Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee in the student legislature, President of the Veteran's Association and Vice-president of the University Club.

A businessman his entire working life, he worked for several companies including H.K. Porter, Proctor and Gamble and Square D before becoming a successful small business owner. He sold his final business, Foley's Energy Shop, located outside Cincinnati, OH, in 1997.

Respect can be paid to Brother Foley at the mausoleum at Sharon Memorial Park, Charlotte, North Carolina.

RECENT LOSSES TO THE ROLL

* We lost World War II Veteran and AL Alpha President Lieutenant Donald Jennings, U.S. Navy Reserve when he passed in Hinesville, Georgia.

* On 16 APR, U.S. Army World War II Veterans OK Beta Brother Kenneth “Buddy” Bell, and MO Alpha Brother Paul R. Manocchio passed away.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the brothers, family and friends of brothers Jennings, Bell and Manocchio.

SIGEP PATRIOTS PROJECT (SPP) UPDATE

* The SPP official Facebook group – SigEps Who Serve – is very happy to welcome ROTC Cadet and SC Epsilon Brother Patrick Hamlin who will graduate this semester and earn his commission in the U.S. Army!

* The SPP database now has the names of more than 1810 SigEp Patriots who serve/served in the U.S. military. We are always looking for brothers-in-arms, and we hope you will reach out to join your brothers. Join us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/sigepswhoserve. Not on Facebook? Write to sigepswhoserve@gmail.com to join the listserve. For both, you will be asked to provide your military affiliation and home chapter.

Fraternally and Respectfully,

Brother Ed Jones, NY Eta ‘96
Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy Reserve
Founder, SigEp Patriots Project

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 27 FEB – 04 MAR

Brothers,

02 MAR 1904
A man was born on this date that would affect millions around the world. Our NH Alpha Brother, World War II Veteran and Captain Theodor Seuss Geisel, U.S. Army was born in Springfield, Massachusetts.

28 FEB 1919
On this date, U.S. Marine Corps World War I Veteran and NE Alpha Brother Frank Dewey Carman was discharged following his military service.

04 MAR 1925
World War II Veteran, CO Delta Brother and Private Erling “Swede” Kristian Arnston, U.S. Army was born on this date.

28 FEB 1929
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and DE Alpha Brother James Robert McCarthy was born on this date in Cleveland, Ohio.

03 MAR 1938
U.S. Air Force Veteran and IA Delta Brother Thomas Michael Hamilton was born on this date in Davenport, Iowa.

04 MAR 1945
On this date, KS Gamma President Robert Ellsworth Stoddard, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, was killed during the Battle of Iwo Jima while serving with the 23rd Marines.

04 MAR 2011
In a small world example of how we are all connected, 66 years after the death of Brother Stoddard, fellow World War II Veteran, TX Alpha President and First Lieutenant Charles Lynn West, U.S. Army Air Corps died peacefully in Midland, TX.

During the war, Charles served as a bombardier with the 7th Air Force, 30th Bomb Group in the South Pacific aboard a B-24 Liberator nicknamed “Ruff Knights.” Brother West and the Ruff Knights led the entire bomb group on the final tactical assault upon Iwo Jima before the assault on Iwo by Brother Stoddard and his Marines.

Brother West was born 26 MAY 1923, in Miami, Oklahoma. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps and was assigned to bombardier training in Big Spring, TX. In 1943, he received a commission to the rank of First Lieutenant and ordered to Tonopah, NV, to finish training. From there, it was off to war flying in the Liberator from bases on Guam, Saipan, and Tinian, he and a crew of ten other daring young men, and even an ornery dog named "Snuffy," combined to fly 43 missions.

Following the war, Charles attended Louisiana State University and The University of Texas. He graduated in 1951, and worked as an independent petroleum geologist for multiple companies, most notably Texas Pacific Oil & Gas and Beach Exploration, in a career spanning nearly 60 years through booms and busts. Charles was an active member of the Midland Downtown Lions Club, Midland Masonic Lodge #623, Scottish Rite, Dallas Valley, and Suez Shrine.

RECENT LOSSES TO THE ROLL
* IN Alpha Brother and Colonel Ryan Edward Steele, U.S. Army Reserve (Retired) of West Windsor, New Jersey passed away on 13 FEB 2012, with his family by his side.
* U.S. Marine Corps World War II Veteran and WI Beta Brother Daniel Raymond Femal of Houston, Texas peacefully passed away on 14 FEB 2012. Memorial services will be held for David Friday, 09 MAR 2012, 11am at the Houston National Cemetery.
* U.S. Army and Army Reserve Veteran, and AL Alpha Brother James “Bo” Franklin Anthony passed away in Trussville, Alabama on 19 FEB 2012 at the age of 77.* WV Beta Brother and First Lieutenant John Granville Meador, U.S. Army passed away on 28 FEB in Pensacola, Florida.

As always, our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of these Brothers, and the SigEp Patriots Project pledges that their service to the Nation will never be forgotten.

CELEBRATION!
Congratulations to TN Eta Brother Clint Van Ert on his recent commissioning to Second Lieutenant, U. S. Army! Best of luck, Brother!

SIGEP PATRIOTS PROJECT (SPP) LEADERSHIP
The SPP leadership ranks now number 20! We welcome the following points of contact (or POCs) that will work with SPP to increase the historical holdings of their respective chapters as well as the SPP archives:
#19 – WI Beta POC is Max Witkowski, former WI Beta Chapter President
#20 – NY Lambda POC is Nate Cross; NY Lambda Brother and Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army

Thank you for leadership and commitment! Others interested in serving as POCs can write to sigepswhoserve@gmail.com.

SPP NUMBERS
* SPP now has the names of 1,175 SigEp Patriots who serve/served in the U.S. military!

* 440! The membership of the official SPP Facebook group now numbers 440 SigEp Patriots with the addition of the following Brothers:
U.S. Navy Veteran and KY Zeta Brother Bradley James Ballard, TN Eta Brother and Second Lieutenant Clint Van Ert, U.S. Army, and MO Eta Brother and Specialist Brian Millbach, U.S. Army Reserve.

Welcome Brothers!

To join the group, go to http://www.facebook.com/groups/sigepswhoserve. Not on Facebook? Join our listserve by sending an email to sigepswhoserve@gmail.com. You will be asked to provide your military affiliation and home chapter.

Fraternally and Respectfully,

Brother Ed Jones, NY Eta ‘96
Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy Reserve
Founder, SigEp Patriots Project

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 12 – 18 SEP

"We sleep safe in our beds because rough men stand ready in the night to visit
violence on those who would do us harm." - George Orwell

12 SEP 1917On this date, World War II Veteran and OK Alpha Brother First Lieutenant Frank Marion Pinney, U. S. Army was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

12 SEP 1924
U.S. Navy World War II Veteran and CA Beta Brother David Raynes Billings was born on this date in Los Angeles, California.

16 SEP 1929
U.S. Navy Veteran IN Alpha Brother Rex A. Sebastian was born on this date.

15 SEP 1940In Roundup, Montana, U.S. Navy Vietnam War Veteran and MT Beta Brother Robert Allen Lundstrom was born on this date.

15 SEP 1973On this date, Operation IRAQI FREEDOM Veteran and AL Alpha Brother Colonel Wallace Jack Paschal, U.S. Air Force (previously U.S. Army) was promoted to the rank of Private on this date. A great career starts with one small step.

14 SEP 2010
U.S. Navy World War II Veteran and NC Epsilon Brother Samuel Adamson Burgess, Jr (Davidson College ’48) died on this date in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Born in Jacksonville, FL, Brother Burgess grew up there before enrolling at Davidson College. There he studied until old enough to volunteer for the United States Naval Medical Corps during World War II. Upon completing his military service at the Portsmouth Naval Hospital in Virginia, Sam returned to Davidson College and graduated in 1948.

While at Davidson, Sam was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. After attending the School of Business at Columbia University in New York City, he worked for a year in Harrisburg, PA before entering Union Theological Seminary in Richmond, VA to study for the Presbyterian ministry. Upon graduation in 1952, Brother Burgess was ordained in Sparta, NC by the Presbytery of Winston-Salem and called to the Elkin Presbyterian Church in Elkin, NC.

Upon returning home after completing additional studies in Scotland at the University of St. Andrews, Sam became the organizing pastor of a new Presbyterian church in Garner, NC in 1956. During his pastorate, he served as a Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in 1960, 1976, and 1984. Love of community and people led him to serve in various offices and organizations including Boards of Directors of the American Cancer Society and the Triangle Counseling Center, president of the local PTA, and Chaplain for many years at the Garner Civitan Club.

When he retired in 1990, Sam volunteered his time tutoring students in the field of reading at Vandora Springs Elementary School and providing support to patients as a volunteer at Rex Hospital.

Jim was laid to rest at Williamsburg Cemetery in Kingstree, SC.

18 SEP 2010
A year ago today, U.S. Army World War II Veteran and CA Beta Brother James H. Cox (University of Southern California ’47) died peacefully at the age of 90.

He grew up on the Ohio River in Toronto, Ohio in a family that shared a deep appreciation of music. He sang in glee clubs, school operettas and church choirs. Jim served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a Navigator-Bombardier in WWII.

Following the war, Brother Cox returned to USC to complete his studies. He then earned an MBA from Harvard in 1949, and had a 36 year career with Bullocks Department Stores as buyer, store manager and VP of Stores. Jim’s numerous civic involvements include 30 years perfect attendance in Rotary, and serving as President of the Harvard Club of Orange County. He also served on the Board of The Chamber Orchestra of the South Bay and the Norris Theater, and was editor of numerous bulletins and newsletters. After moving to Fearrington Village, NC, he and his wife Joan opened a fine gift, gourmet food and floral shop, Chapel Hill Florist LTD.

Brother Cox will be remembered as kind and generous, a gentleman and a scholar with delightful sense of humor and wit. In remembrance of our Brother, contributions may be made in his name to The Norris Theater Memorial Fund, 27570 Crossfield Road, Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274.

GREAT NEWS!
*Last Wednesday, CA Theta Brother Cameron Jost, U.S. Army signed his Airborne and Ranger contracts!

*On Friday, OK Alpha Brother Second Lieutenant Grant Milbourn, U.S. Air Force learned he was awarded his first choice and will soon begin training to fly the E-3 Sentry (AWACS) aircraft.
Congratulations and best of luck to Brothers Cameron and Milbourn!

We are always looking to post great news items about promotions, SigEp Patriots returning from combat deployments, marriages and alike. If you have something you would like to share please send an email to http://www.blogger.com/sigepswhoserve@gmail.com.

THE GROWING RANKS!Thanks to word of mouth and the assistance of Brothers, the SigEp Patriots Project's official Facebook group – SigEps Who Serve – continues to grow! In the previous edition of this work we were remiss in welcoming IL Mu Brother Matthew Bruce, U.S. Army National Guard (Illinois), and thanks to MT Beta Brother Tony Cerise we are very excited to announce that MT Alpha Brother Randy Hiatt, U.S. Army National Guard (Montana) and MT Beta Brother Patrick Lodahl have also joined the group.

Join us by going to http://www.facebook.com/groups/sigepswhoserve and request to join 330 fellow SigEp Patriots. All SigEps who serve/served are welcome!

Fraternally and Respectfully,

Brother Ed Jones, NY Eta ‘96
Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy Reserve
Founder, SigEp Patriots Project
sigepswhoserve@gmail.com