Last Week in SigEp Patriot History, Volume 26 / 2014, 01 – 07 SEP

Brother,

The first day of this week marked the 75th anniversary of the start of World War II, a war that would shape the world. The SigEp Patriots Project (SPP) works tirelessly to learn about all of our military brothers, but takes particular interest in the WWII patriots as the VA says they are dying at the rate of 1000 a day. Obituaries are one way to learn about a person. However, I can’t possibly articulate the loss we experience if we fail to learn something about these men and their service from them while they are still alive. A shout out to the men of the California Pi chapter who get it, and are working with the Library of Congress’ Veteran’s History Project to interview veterans living near Stanford University.

WWI U.S. Army
Ambulance Service Patch

01 SEP 1918
This marks the date New Hampshire Alpha Brother Private First Class Charles E. Tayntor, U.S. Army Ambulance Service, Army Medical Corps sailed for France for his World War I service in Europe.

05 SEP 1919
World War I Veteran and Ohio Gamma Brother Captain Robert L. Tavenner, U.S. Army completed his service in Europe with the American Expeditionary Force on this date.

01 SEP 1942
On this date, the same year he became a SigEp, Alabama Alpha Brother William H. Weldon joined the U.S. Navy.

05 SEP 1942
A graduate of the University of Delaware (Class of ’34), Delaware Alpha Brother S. Clifford Dunn entered the Army on this date.

05 SEP 1944
Ohio Epsilon Brother Haldean S. Lindsey, member of the Class of ’34 at Ohio Wesleyan, entered the service of the U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps on this date.

05 SEP 1945
Discharged on this date after nearly 42 months of service was World War II Veteran and District of Columbia Alpha Brother Staff Sergeant Logan P. Crossland, U.S. Army Air Corps (USAAC).

07 SEP 1956
A SigEp Patriot made aviation history on this date.

Bell X-2
Photo Credit Wikipedia

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 26 AUG – 01 SEP

Brothers,

29 AUG 1918

Founding Father
First Lieutenant
Franklin Webb Kerfoot
U.S. Army

On this date, Founding Father and Chaplain First Lieutenant Franklin Webb Kerfoot, U.S. Army (Chaplain Corps) was killed in a collision of an automobile and a train on the Southern Railway in Chatham, Virginia. Brother Kerfoot had temporarily returned home from Newport News, VA where he was serving as a Baptist chaplain working among the soldiers departing overseas.

Franklin was born in Buckland, VA in 1986. He was Class of 1902 at Richmond College and later attended Crozer Theological Seminary. At his memorial service he was remembered as “the most original preacher of his time” and it was stated that God took him to welcome the soldiers who had “passed on” from the battlefield.

Respect can be paid to Founding Father Kerfoot at Green Hill Cemetery in Berryville, VA.

01 SEP 1918

NH Alpha Brother Private First Class Charles Enos Tayntor, U.S. Army Ambulance Service, Army Medical Corps sailed for France for his World War I service in Europe on this date.

IL Alpha Brother
Ensign
Joseph M. Hissem
U.S. Navy Reserve

30 AUG 1941

IL Alpha Brother Joseph Metcalf Hissem received his commission as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy Reserve on this date. Brother Hissem would go to be killed at the Battle of Midway, and awarded the Navy Cross for his bravery in combat.

26 AUG 1942

World War II Veteran CO Gamma Brother John H. Price, Jr. entered the U.S. military on this date. He would serve 18 months on Guadalcanal before being discharged at the end of the war.

30 AUG 1953

On this date, with the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement the previous month, John W. “Bill” Rambo, Sr. was released after 19-months in captivity. Following his Korean War service, he joined the TN National Guard and attended the University of Tennessee where he became a SigEp.

01 SEP 1962

On this date, World War II Veteran and VA Zeta Brother General Robert Jefferson Wood, U.S. Army (Retired) was promoted to the rank of general (four-stars). In 1967, Brother Wood would receive the SigEp Citation.

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 20 – 26 MAY

“Now do your duty. Your officers cannot have entire command over you now. Each man must do all in his power for his country.” ~ Captain Isaac Hull, Commanding Officer, USS Constitution at the beginning of the battle with HMS Guerriere, the War of 1812

Brothers,

22 MAY 1949

On this date, World War I Veteran, Secretary of the Navy, first Secretary of Defense and NH Alpha Brother Lieutenant James Vincent Forrestal, U.S. Navy Reserve died in Bethesda, Maryland. When the U.S. entered World War I, Brother Forrestal enlisted in the United States Navy as a Seaman Second Class on 02 JUN 1917. After flight training, he was commissioned an Ensign, Naval Reserve Flying Corps at Boston, Massachusetts, and he gained his wings of gold before the year was out. He served until late 1919 when he was discharged with the rank of Lieutenant.

James was born in 1892 in Matteawan (now Beacon), New York. After graduating from high school, he worked for three years on local newspapers in New York before entering Dartmouth College in 1911 where he became a Brother of SigEp. The following year he transferred to Princeton University, however he left school in his senior year prior to completing work on this degree.

During World War II, Brother Forrestal held several government jobs, and was appointed Secretary of the Navy on 19 MAY 1944. He participated prominently in the development of the National Security Act of 1947, and went on to become the first Secretary of Defense upon the creation of that position.

James Forrestal is the second SigEp to have a U.S. Navy ship named after him, and I proudly served on that ship. The aircraft carrier USS Forrestal (CV-59), the first U.S. super-carrier, was affectionately referred to as the “FID,” recognizing the ships motto “First in Defense.”

President Truman and 2,500 guests attended the ceremony where Brother Forrestal was laid to rest with full military honors. Honorary pallbearers at his funeral included Herbert Hoover, former President of the United States; Fred M. Vinson, Chief Justice of the United States; General of the Army George C. Marshall, former Secretary of State and former Chief of Staff, U.S. Army, and General of the Army Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Respect can be paid to Brother Forrestal in Section 30, Site 674 SH at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia.

22 MAY 1970

AR Beta Brothers Gregory Felling and Jack Elwin Helms were commissioned as Second Lieutenants in the U.S. Army at their graduation on this date.

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 01 – 07 April

06 APR 1945
For his actions on this date while serving in Germany, U.S. Army D-Day World War II Veteran DE Alpha Brother Robert L. Snowberger was awarded the Bronze Star for heroic action against an "out numbering enemy force."

01 APR 1952

For his actions on this date over Korea, Korean War Veteran and Ace, SigEp Citation Recipient and IN Alpha Brother Captain Iven Carl "Kinch" Kincheloe, Jr., U.S. Air Force was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action. On 04 JUN 1952, Headquarters, Far East Asia Forces issued General Order Number 272:

“The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 09 JUL 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Iven C. Kincheloe, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United Nations as pilot, 25th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, 51st Fighter-Interceptor Group, FIFTH Air Force, on 01 APR 1952. While leading a flight of four F-86 type aircraft, Captain Kincheloe encountered sixteen enemy aircraft attempting to intercept friendly fighter-bombers, Captain Kincheloe quickly broke his flight into elements to engage the enemy, and boldly attacked although greatly outnumbered. He pressed attacks against two of the enemy, completely disregarding efforts of other aircraft to deter him. Displaying unusual aggressiveness, Captain Kincheloe severely damaged the aircraft of the enemy flight leader, forcing him to eject himself, and despite heavy damage to his own aircraft, attacked another and destroyed it completely. Captain Kincheloe's destruction of the two aircraft effectively broke up the enemy force and prevented their attack on the friendly fighter-bombers. Through his personal courage, outstanding airmanship, and devotion to duty, Captain Kincheloe reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.”

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 07 – 13 JAN 2013

Brothers,

The SigEp Patriots Project (SPP) ended 2012 with,

- 3,686 SigEp Patriots in the Project database;
- 102 brothers-in-arms receiving email via the SPP list serve;
- 712 pages of stories and information about brothers who serve/served in the U.S. military;
- 637 photographs of military brothers;
- 548 SigEp Patriots are members of SigEps Who Serve – the Official Facebook group of SPP, and
- 37 brothers volunteering at chapters around the country as a liaison or point of contact (POC) with SPP in a mutually beneficial relationship of sharing and remembrance.

07 JAN 1941
DE Alpha Brother G. H. Kadel entered the U.S. Army on this date.

09 JAN 1941
On this date, IL Alpha Brother Joseph Metcalf Hissem joined the U.S. Navy Reserve and received a commission as an Ensign. He would go on to heroically serve at the Battle of Midway and made the ultimate sacrifice being reported missing in action / buried at sea.

08 JAN 1943

After graduating from Purdue, IN Alpha Brother William J. Meyer, Jr. entered the Army on this date.

10 JAN 1943

On this date, World War II Veteran and WA Alpha Brother Captain Ben Francis Ferguson, U.S. Army performed gallantly at Guadalcanal while leading his company to an assault position in the face of intense enemy fire. He proceeded to direct an enveloping movement towards the objective, resulting in the occupation of the enemy’s position. For this, he was cited for bravery in action and awarded the Silver Star on 24 MAR 1943.

11 JAN 1944

TX Alpha Brother T. Roland Parrett entered the Army on this date.

12 JAN 1944

On this date, TX Alpha Brother Richard T. Scott joined the Army Air Force and served in the medical corps.

13 JAN 1944
A ship named in honor of Brother Hissem was commissioned on this date, Lieutenant Commander W. W. Low in command. The ship, USS Hissem, was a Destroyer Escort of the EDSALL class, with the designation DE-400. It was launched by Brown Shipbuilding Company, Houston, TX, and sponsored by Miss Elizabeth D. Hissem, Joseph’s sister. Hissem received one battle star for World War II service.

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 10 – 16 DEC

Brothers,

“It is better to be violent, if there is violence in our hearts, than to put on the cloak of nonviolence to cover impotence.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi

“I have just received the February issue of the Journal. I can say that I have read this issue with more than ordinary interest, partly because out here we are hungry for news of our friends and partly because I found out for the first time that at least two of the officers that I know here are Sig Eps.” ~ Written by a Brother serving in North Africa, and published in the April 1943 edition of the Journal

14 DEC 1918

On this date, U.S. Army World War I Veteran and MT Alpha Brother Albert Schak was with the first unit to cross the Rhine at Coblenz, Germany. As the U.S. Third Army occupied Coblenz, it is likely Brother Schak’s unit was attached to the Third.

13 DEC 2000

U.S. Army World War II Veteran and GA Alpha Brother Thomas J. Biggs died on this date in Charleston, WV.

Respect can be paid to Brother Biggs at Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley, West Virginia.

12 DEC 2004

U.S. Army Air Corps World War II Veteran and AL Beta President Glen Allen Deuel died in Huntsville, Alabama on this date at the age of 82. After high school he enlisted and served in the 15^th Army Air Force, 460^th Bomb Group of World War II. When the war was over, he attended the University of Alabama and graduated with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering.

Glen was born in Loxley, Alabama, and grew up in Castleberry, Alabama. After graduating from college, Brother Deuel worked for two years on B-52s for Boeing in Seattle. He then went on to Redstone Arsenal in 1952 of Huntsville, Alabama, and joined the ABMA Wernher Von Braun first launch team and later NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center where he worked on major space programs from 1952-1979. He was also a member of the American Rocket Society.

While walking the beaches of Cape Canaveral during the first Redstone launches of our space program, Glen found a new passion in sea shells. He was a founding member of North Alabama Shell Club and Past President of Conchologists of America, the national organization of shell collectors.

Glen served his country during WWII and through his work at NASA for a combination of 30 years. He also volunteered in his community as a member of Huntsville’s Metro Kiwanis Club and received Layman of the Year Award.

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 05 – 11 NOV

Brothers,

On this Veteran’s Day the SigEp Patriots Project (SPP) takes this opportunity to say THANK YOU to every brother who has served or continues to serve, and a special recognition to our brothers currently serving in harm’s way. Stay safe, brothers, and get home soon.

For those of you that have the day off on Monday, SPP hopes you will use the information posted here to pay respect to brothers who serve our nation – especially those SigEp Patriots who have passed away.

On this Veteran’s Day, SPP reaffirms its pledge to always honor and remember all brothers who serve our great country. We hope you will pass the word about our efforts, and help us to find and honor our brothers today and every day.

08 NOV 1932

On this day, World War I Veteran and VA Eta Brother Joel West Flood was elected as a Democrat to the Seventy-second Congress to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Henry St. George Tucker, and served from 08 NOV 1932 to 03 MAR 1933. He was not a candidate for election to the Seventy-third Congress. Joel served as a private in the U.S. Army from 1918 to 1919.

05 NOV 1944

World War II Veteran and SigEp Brother Second Lieutenant Clarence C. Roudebush, Jr., U.S. Army was killed in action on this date in Pescara, Italy. Brother Roudebush was a member of 60^th Troop Division.

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 15 – 21 OCT

Brothers,



Outside Mojo Bones in Norfolk, VA; 12 OCT 2012

Greetings from the new SigEp Patriots Project (SPP) home office in the barracks on Royal Air Force (RAF) Alconbury in the United Kingdom! Before I left the States, I had the pleasure of going to a homecoming event near Old Dominion University (ODU) last Friday where I met a number of great brothers including a number of SigEp Patriots continuing the VA Xi tradition of service to the nation. There were Army, Navy and Marine Corps veterans, as well as VA Xi Patriots serving in the reserves and in ROTC at ODU. Thank you for your service.

16 OCT 2003

On this date, Persian Gulf War and Operation IRAQI FREEDOM Veteran, TX Rho Brother Lieutenant Colonel Kim S. Orlando, U.S. Army made the ultimate sacrifice when he was killed in action in Karbala, Iraq. Brother Orlando was attempting to negotiate with armed men who were congregating after curfew on a road near a mosque. The Iraqis opened fire killing three soldiers and wounding seven others. All the soldiers were assigned to the 716th Military Police Battalion, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), and Kim was the commanding officer of the battalion. At the time, he was the highest-ranking Army officer killed in hostile fire in Iraq.

Kim was known for never hesitating to lead his soldiers personally, whether on a three-mile run in below-freezing temperatures or on patrol in the streets of Karbala. Major Darryl Johnson, of the 716th Military Police Battalion, said Colonel Orlando was “constantly moving to the front and disregarding his own safety.” The battalion comprised no fewer than 400 soldiers, and Kim made it a point to learn the name of each one, said Sergeant Major Rodney Smith, a battalion member.  “For a battalion commander to know your name, that touches anybody,” Smith said.

He enlisted in the Army as a military policeman in 1982 and was commissioned at Fort Benning, GA in 1986. Kim was promoted quickly, and was picked to study at the FBI’s National Academy in Quantico, VA — an exclusive honor for military policemen. When he was killed he was 43, and posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.

Respect can be paid to Brother Orlando at the Nashville National Cemetery in Nashville, TN. Kim made the ultimate sacrifice, and SPP pledges that his life and service will always be remembered.

 

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

Last Week in SigEp Patriot History, 23 – 29 APR

24 APR 1942

World War II Veteran WI Alpha Brother Corporal Everett Roudebush, U.S. Army entered the Army on this date after finishing a concert tour with Salvatore Baccaloni, noted Metropolitan Opera Company star.

27 APR 1964

World War I Veteran, Judge (5th Judicial Circuit) and U.S. Congressman (Virginia) VA Eta Brother Private Joel West Flood, U.S. Army died on this date in Richmond, VA.

Joel was born 02 AUG 1894 near Appomattox, Virginia, became a SigEp at University of Virginia, and later attended Oxford University. After studying law he was admitted to the bar in 1917 and commenced practice in Appomattox.

During WWI, Brother Flood served in Company A, 350th Engineers, 80th Division. The same year he completed his military duty, Joel was elected Virginia State Commonwealth Attorney of Appomattox County in 1919. He served until 08 NOV 1932 when he was elected to the Seventy-second Congress to fill a vacancy. Brother Flood then resumed the practice of law, and after serving as a delegate to the 1936 Democratic National Convention was appointed assistant United States attorney for the western district of Virginia in 1939.

In JAN 1940, Joel was elected as a judge of the fifth judicial circuit of Virginia, and he served in this capacity until his death.

Respect can be paid to Brother Flood at the Flood Mausoleum, Appomattox Courthouse Square, Appomattox, VA.

29 APR 2005

World War II Veteran and NY Alpha Brother R. Charles Backus died on this date in Mexico, New York at the age of 84. He was an owner of the Oswego County Weeklies for over 50 years. He was a nationally known Holstein Auctioneer with R. Austin Backus Inc. He served many years as a delegate of the National Holstein Convention. He was a member of the Holstein Association of New York State and on the national level. He was a member of the Oswego Country Club and The Elms Golf Course. He was a cryptographer during WWII in the Signal Corps.

Respect can be paid to Brother Backus at Mexico Village Cemetery.

27 APR 2006

A hero died on this date at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas as a result of wounds received during combat operations in Habbaniyah, Iraq. Operation IRAQI FREEDOM Veteran and MI Beta Brother Sergeant Matthew Alan Webber, U.S. Army National Guard (Michigan) was 23 years old.

Matt attended Western Michigan University and joined the Army National Guard in 1999. He was called to active duty in June of 2005. Brother Webber was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry Regiment (Mechanized), Michigan Army National Guard when he sustained injuries 21 NOV 2005 when an improvised explosive device detonated near his Humvee.

Respect can be paid to Brother Webber at Pine Plains Cemetery, Big Rapids, Michigan.

25 APR 2008

U.S. Army Veteran PA Epsilon Brother Robert Edward Lee Anderson died on this date in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Born in Lancaster, Robert was the son of the late Herbert K. and Ella P. Anderson. He was a 1945 graduate of J. P. McCaskey High School and served in Europe as a member of the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1948. After his patriotic serve, Brother Anderson graduated with a degree in civil engineering from Lehigh University where he was pole vault champion.

Robert retired from Philadelphia Suburban Corp., formerly Huth Engineers.  He was a past president of the American Business Club and a former board member of the Lancaster chapter of United Cerebral Palsy.Repect can be paid to Brother Anderson at Greenwood Cemetery, Lancaster, PA.

25 APR 2008

World War II Veteran and PA Delta Brother TECH 5 C. Crandall Shaffer, Jr., U.S. Army of Dublin, Ohio died on this date.

Respect can be paid to Brother Shaffer at Kingwood Memorial Park, Lewis Center, OH.

24 APR 2011

On this date, Korean War Veteran VT Alpha Brother First Lieutenant Robert Kinsman Horne, U.S. Army died at his home in Palm Desert, California following a valiant fight against Alzheimer's/Dementia.

At Norwich University, Brother Horne played three sports and was Captain of the Hockey Team the 52-53 season. The Team was inducted into the Norwich Hall of Fame in 1993, and in 1998 Bob was inducted personally into the Hall. Following college he served as an Army First Lieutenant in Germany during the Korean War. He is a lifetime member of the Melrose Wyoming Lodge of Masons. His business career included work in Truck Leasing with several companies reaching a pinnacle as a National Sales VP for the Hertz Co. He concluded his career as President of "Trader Horne" - a Transportation Consulting Co.

He relished in physical activity and dancing of any kind. His busy life was full of gardening, photography and international trips where he and his wife visited many exotic countries where they were assimilated into the local communities eating, dancing, living and reveling in many different cultures. Our saying was "If it's muggy and buggy and the natives wear bones in their noses, we'll be there."

Respect can be paid to Brother Horne at Pacific View Memorial Park, Corona del Mar, California.

26 APR 2011

U.S. Army Air Corps Flight Surgeon and World War II Veteran Flight Surgeon, NC Gamma Brother Richard Elwood Nitschke died on this date at the age of 97.

Richard was born 05 JUL 1913 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and he lived there until the age of six when the family re-located to Philadelphia and later to Utica, NY. He entered an accelerated undergraduate program at Duke University in 1931. Brother Nitschke was the number one half miler on the cross country track team that won the Southern Conference Championship. After graduating from Duke Medical School in 1937, Dr. Nitschke moved to New York City for his internship at Columbia Presbyterian and residency at Roosevelt Hospital. His specialty was internal medicine but he also trained at the Neurological Institute of New York. While still in New York, he enlisted in the Manhattan Division of the 101st horse cavalry. Upon the onset of World War II, he was assigned to the School of Aviation Medicine at Randolph Field, San Antonio, Texas. Brother Nitschke served as Flight Surgeon with the Army Air Corps, with the 30th Bomb Group of the 5th Fighter Wing and was stationed at Ballinger, Texas, Lubbock, Texas and Oahu, Hawaii. Dr. Nitschke was a dedicated physician of Internal Medicine, serving his patients in the San Antonio community from 1946 until his retirement in 1985.

On this date, U.S. Air Force Veteran and IA Delta Brother Thomas Michael Hamilton also died after a courageous battle with brain cancer.

Tom was born on 03 MAR 1938 in Davenport, Iowa. At Drake University he played football and was a proud member of the 1958 Sun Bowl team. He received his undergraduate degree in business, followed by a Master's Degree in Psychology. After graduation, Brother Hamilton served his country in the Air Force. He began his professional career at Northwestern Bell and then worked with Personnel Inc. before founding Hamilton & Associates in 1972. There he truly found a profession he loved, helping clients achieve success through talent acquisition while taking great satisfaction in assisting individuals in advancing their careers. He merged his business with McGladrey and Pullen in 1988 and worked as a Senior Consulting Partner until he retired from the firm in 1999. He then co-founded Selection Resources with his son and offered advanced pre-employment testing services. He was an accredited SPHR through the Society of HR Management. His career was also highlighted by community service in leadership roles with the Chamber of Commerce, Youth Homes of Mid America, the YMCA, Hope Ministries and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He was a member of Rotary International for 43 years and was a "7 Gallon" blood donor to the Blood Center of Iowa.

RECENT LOSSES TO THE ROLL

* World War II Veteran and VA Alpha Brother Lieutenant Grover Cleveland Pitts Jr., U.S. Navy

Grover Cleveland Pitts Grover Cleveland Pitts Jr., 94, passed away on Friday, 20 APR 2012, at his home in Charlottesville, Virginia.
* U.S. Army Korean War Veteran DE Alpha Brother Warren VanArsdalen Jr. also passed away peacefully Friday, at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford, Delaware.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the chapter brothers, family and friends of brothers Pitts and VanArsdalen. 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

* 461! The SPP official Facebook group – SigEps Who Serve – reached 460 members and pushed one over that mark last week when TX Alpha Brother Captain Connie Lane, U.S. Army and DC Delta Brother 2LT Charlie Kerry, U.S. Marine Corps honored us by joining our ranks. Welcome aboard brothers!

* 2356! Over the past week, the SPP database gained names and information about over 540 brothers-in-arms, bringing our holdings to 2356 brothers who serve/served patriotically in the U.S. military.

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

Brothers,

"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noice of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. ~ Steve Jobs

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, 12 – 19 MAR

Brothers,

16 MAR 1894
U.S. Army World War I Veteran and NE Alpha Brother Ralph Leroy Theisen was born on this date in West Point, Nebraska.

13 MAR 1911
On this date, World War II Veteran, U.S. District Court Senior Chief Judge Northern District of Florida and FL Alpha Brother Major Winston Eugene Arnow, U.S. Army was born in Micanopy, Florida.

17 MAR 1912
World War II Veteran, Mayor (Jacksonville), Governor (Florida) and MA Theta Brother Lieutenant William Haydon Burns, U.S. Navy was born in Louisville, KY on this date.

15 MAR 1919
On this date, U.S. Marine Corps World War II Veteran, Legislator in the 77th General Assembly (Kentucky) and KY Epsilon Brother Joseph Fry Odle, Jr. was born in Puryear, Tennessee.

13 MAR 1920
World War II Veteran and VA Alpha Brother Major John Thomas Watkins, Jr., U.S. Army Air Corps was born on this date in Richmond, Virginia.

12 MAR 1923
World War II Veteran and OH Epsilon Brother Sergeant Nicholas Billeris, U.S. Army Air Corps was born on this date in Youngstown, Ohio.

13 MAR 1923
World War II and Korean War Veteran and KS Gamma Brother Captain Dr. Lawrence Pierre Stream, U.S. Army was born on this date in Kansas City, Kansas.

14 MAR 1981
This is quite a week in the life of Brother Winston Eugene Arnow, for it was on this date that he assumed senior status on the bench of the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Florida, and he served as such until his death in 1994.

13 MAR 2004
World War II Veteran, DE Alpha Chapter President and First Lieutenant Roland V. “Deacon” Reed, Jr., U.S. Army died on this date. Born in Wilmington, DE on 21 JUL 1922, Roland earned Eagle Scout and Quartermaster Rank Sea Scout before graduating high school in JUN 1940. Although he entered the University of Delaware directly after high school, his education was interrupted by a call to duty, and he entered the U.S. Army in 1943 – completing Infantry Officer Training School the next year. First Lieutenant Reed served in Leyte, Philippine Islands and Japan from DEC 1944 – JUL 1946.

Deacon returned to the University of Delaware and graduated in JUN 1947. While a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, not only did he serve as Editor-in-Chief of the DELALPHAN and president of DE Alpha, he was a cheerleader, member of the soccer team, an ROTC cadet, Secretary of Student Council and on the staff of the student newspaper, The Review.

Dr. Reed graduated from the Dental School, University of Maryland in 1951, the beginning of a distinguished career that spanned 37 years. He was a lifetime member of the Delaware State Dental Society and served as president from 1962-63. In 1984, he was inducted as a Fellow of the International College of Dentists in recognition of his outstanding and meritorious service to dentistry. During the 1960's and 70's, Dr. Reed volunteered for the Children's Bureau of Delaware and served on their Board. He provided dental services to indigent patients and worked with young athletes to help promote the use of mouth guards in contact sports. In addition, he was active in the alumni associations for the University of Delaware and the Dental School, University of Maryland.

His love of the sea and fishing prompted a permanent move to Rehoboth in 1971, where he could spend more time on his boat, The Viking II. From 1988 until he was incapacitated by Alzheimer's disease, he and his wife, Catherine, divided their time between their homes in Exuma, Bahamas and Henlopen Acres, DE. After retirement from dentistry, he rekindled his love of writing. In the 1980's and 90's, his articles were published in the Bulletin of the History of Dentistry, Journal of the History of Dentistry and the British Dental Journal. In 1991, he became a member of the American Academy of the History of Dentistry in recognition of his contributions to the field. He was the author of the book Exuma Humor as well as various volumes of poems, essays and fishing stories.

Respect can be shown to Brother Reed at Lower Brandywine Cemetery.

15 MAY 2007
Operation ENDURING FREEDOM Veteran and AK Alpha Brother Joel Fix, Sr. was promoted to Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army on this date. Currently, Master Sergeant Fix is awaiting word as to whether he has been selected for Sergeant Major. We wish him the best of luck in his continued success.

14 MAR 2008
On this date, Korean War Veteran and ME Alpha Brother Sergeant Chester “Chet” Nehemiah Kennedy, U.S. Army died in Brewster, Massachusetts at the age of 79. Chet graduated from the University of Maine in 1950 with a bachelor of arts in history and government. He served from 1953 until 1955, and enjoyed an extensive career in education – completing 23 years as a guidance counselor and 26 years as an instructor at Central Connecticut State University.

Respect can be paid to Brother Kennedy at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA.

16 MAR 2010
VT Alpha Brother and Lieutenant Colonel William Thomas Collins, U.S. Army and Vermont Army National Guard (Retired) died at home in Waterbury, Vermont on this date.

Bill was born in Burlington, VT on 11 DEC 1932. At Norwich, Brother Collins was a member of the Newman Club, Honor Committee, Winter Carnival Committee, and the baseball, football, and basketball teams. Following his military service with the U.S. Army, Bill joined the Vermont Army National Guard and was based at Camp Johnson in Colchester, VT. A 22-year career included management in the Cannon Field Artillery Office, Personnel Staff Office, and the Supply and Service Management Office, retiring in 1984 at the rank of lieutenant colonel.His memberships included Knights of Columbus, the Waterbury Rotary Club and the Harry N. Cutting American Legion Post 59, where he spearheaded the Post 59 American Legion baseball team for many years.

RECENT LOSS TO THE ROLL
* U.S. Air Force Veteran and TX Beta Brother Winford Craig Boyd, M.D. died on 27 FEB 2012 while on a world cruise. Craig was an avid runner and had completed seven marathons. Memorial services will be held at Cedar Creek Lake United Methodist Church Sunday, 25 March at 2 P.M. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the Cedar Creek Lake United Methodist Church Food Pantry Project.
* OR Alpha Brother and Lieutenant Commander Kent William Wells, U.S. Navy (Retired) died 09 MAR 2012 in Damascus, MD. A Memorial Service will be held tomorrow at 4 p.m. from Molesworth-Williams, P.A., Funeral Home, 26401 Ridge Road, Damascus, MD 20872. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Sigma Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation, Oregon Alpha Endowment, 310 S Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220.

CELEBRATIONS!
* Congratulations to NY Alpha Brother, SPP NY Alpha POC and ROTC Cadet Jon Schlosser, selected as the Resident Scholar at NY Alpha for 2012-2013!

SPP LEADERSHIP
* We continue to grow, and we now have 22 chapter points of contact (POCs). WY Alpha now has a SPP POC with the addition of WY Alpha Brother Captain Eric Christeson, U.S. Army. SPP looks forward to working with Eric and anyone else interested in serving as a POC. Just write to sigepswhoserve@gmail.com.

SPP NUMBERS
* 1,384! Since the last installment of “This Week,” our archives have grown by more than 190, and we are now honored to remember 1,384 SigEp Patriots who serve/served. Every day we hear from brothers, and we look forward to hearing from you!
* 446! We are very happy to have two more SigEp Patriots on the SPP role and as members of the SigEps Who Serve group. Welcome to former U.S. Army Specialist and TX Sigma Brother Mike Murillo and CA Alpha Brother Ensign Charles Coassin, U.S. Navy.

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. 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