This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 01 – 07 JUL

Brothers,

As the original Independence Day, July 4, 1776, was just that – the day the subjects of King George III inhabiting the American colonies declared their independence from British rule. It is important to remember that the fledging Continental Army & Navy had to go out and make that declaration a reality, and secure our independence by defeating the Royal Army and Navy.

My holiday weekend was spent in Normandy, France, and it was a very moving experience. There were so many incredible tributes honoring the brave Americans who participated in D-Day and the subsequent liberation of Europe, and the French people living in the area – young and old – still remember and respect the sacrifices that were made on their behalf.

01 JUL 1957

On this date, U.S. Army World War II Veteran and VA Zeta Brother Robert Jefferson Wood was assigned as the Army's Deputy Chief of Research and Development, working on a variety of projects including anti-missile weapons and germ and gas warfare systems.

In the early 50s, Brother Wood was involved with the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s military system. In 1986, he retired as a four-star general, and was subsequently awarded the SigEp Citation.

07 JUL 2006

U.S Army National Guard (Montana) Veteran MT Beta Brother Daniel William Ayres died on this date at his home in Cody, Montana. Born in Bozeman, Montana in 1929, Daniel graduated from Gallatin County High School and attended Montana State University, Bozeman, and the University of Montana in Missoula.

Brother Ayres was an active Gideon, a certified swimming and sailing instructor and a 4-H leader. He was also a sandblast artist in the Bozeman Granite Works, a family-owned business, and worked as a dairy-route driver, proprietor of Rainbow Water Service, a real estate broker, and a charter tour bus driver. He especially enjoyed tours into Yellowstone Park.

07 JUL 2008

On this date, World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War Veteran and VA Eta Brother Commander Donald Eugene Cummings, U.S. Navy (Retired) died in The Woodlands, Texas. Brother Cummings served in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1969 as a fighter pilot. While in the service, he boxed in the finals of the Olympic trials. His last assignment was as Air Boss on the aircraft carrier USS Shangri-la (CV-38) serving with the Atlantic Fleet and assigned to deploy to the Mediterranean Sea.

While at the University of Virginia Donald was a member of the championship boxing team. After retiring from the Navy, he was the corporate pilot for Campbell-Ewald Advertising Corp.

Respect can be paid to Brother Cummings in Section C-1, Row D, Site 38 at Houston National Cemetery, Houston Texas.

04 JUL 2010

U.S Army Air Force World War II Veteran and OR Beta Brother Vernon Sprague White, 88, died on this date. During WWII, Brother White served in the U.S. Army Air Forces' 95th Bomber Group.

Born in Salem, Oregon in 1921, Vern graduated from Portland's Washington High School and the University of Oregon. He had a lifelong avocation of politics, and his hobbies included history, genealogy, and the concept of smaller government with reduced taxes. He was editor of the Daily Journal of Commerce.

In 1961, Brother White became managing editor of "Western Timber Industry and News," which merged in 1971 with "World Wood Products." He was chairman of the Young Republicans in 1953 and founding president of the Trumpeters in 1957. From 1958 to 1960, Vern was chairman of the Multnomah County Republican Party.

03 JUL 2012

World War II Veteran of the Normandy, Northern France and Rhineland Campaigns and VA Zeta Brother Staff Sergeant Morris Kent Mallory, U.S. Army died on this date.

07 JUL 2012

Vietnam War Veteran and VT Gamma Brother Captain Charles Vincent Masick, U.S. Army died on this date in Cooperstown, New York.

Respect can be paid to Brother Masick at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, NY.

RECENT LOSSES TO THE ROLL

* 05 JUN – U.S. Army Air Force World War II Veteran MO Beta President Albert Montford Plourde passed away in Webster Groves, MO.
* 27 JUN – FL Alpha Brother Captain Wilton Royce Miller, U.S. Air Force, 80, passed away on this day in Tallahassee, FL. A memorial service to celebrate Brother Miller's life will be held at 2:00 P.M., EDT Monday, 08 JUL at CrossWay Church in Tallahassee, 1698 Village Square Boulevard (located near the I-10 and Thomasville Road exit). In honor of Wilton's belief that education is a great blessing, his family suggests donations be made in lieu of flowers to the following scholarship, which Wilton established at the University of Florida prior to his death.

Wilton R. Miller Family Excellence Scholarship, Fund #013333, University of Florida Foundation, P. O. Box 14425, Gainesville, FL 32604-2425, (352) 846-3444. Checks may be made to the "University of Florida Foundation, Inc" with "Wilton R. Miller Family Excellence Scholarship" in the memo.
* 20 JUN – Korean War Veteran and OH Epsilon Brother First Lieutenant Robert L. “Bob” Harnden, Jr., U.S. Air Force passed away in Mentor, OH on this day. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Breckenridge Village Life Care Fund in memory of Robert Harnden, 36859 Ridge Road, Willoughby, OH 44094.

CELEBRATIONS!
* 01 JUL – NY Iota Brother Adam Smith was promoted to Boatswain Mate Third Class Petty Officer in the U.S. Coast Guard! While he is pinning on his new rank insignias on 10 JUL, the 1st is the date of rank of the Navy Reserve’s newest LCDR, operations IRAQI and ENDURING FREEDOM veteran and IN Zeta Brother Troy Hanson.

* 05 JUL – Operation ENDURING FREEDOM Veteran and FL Iota Brother First Lieutenant Chase Busch, U.S. Army got engaged!

Congratulations to Brothers Smith, Hanson and Busch!

Please keep sending your good news stories to sigepswhoserve@gmail.com.

Fraternally and Respectfully,

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

sigepswhoserve@gmail.com

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 17 – 23 JUN

Brothers,

We are at 3,884 and counting! Those of us at the SigEp Patriots Project (SPP) may be crazy, but one of our goals is to learn at least the name of every brother of Sigma Phi Epsilon that ever served in uniform. We realize this is a daunting task – in addition to gathering stories of brothers’ accomplishments, but our diligence is reinforced by the amazing feats we learn daily of patriotic brothers, and we hope that by sharing them they will inspire you as well. Perhaps some of you will consider helping us, and we look forward to hearing from you.

21 JUN 1918

On this date, OH Gamma Brother Captain Robert Lester Tavenner, U.S. Army began his World War I service with the 37th Division, American Expeditionary Force, and would see action in France & Belgium before being discharged.

18 JUN 1940

KY Epsilon Brother Joseph Fry Odle, Jr. enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps on this date and later served in the pacific theater, including the Battle of Solomon Islands.

17 JUN 1942

VA Alpha Brother John Beverley Blanton, Jr. enlisted in the Army on this date.

19 JUN 1942

On this date, Elmo Russell Zumwalt, Jr. graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and was commissioned an Ensign. He went on to serve in World War II, as well as the Korean and Vietnam wars in a notable career that included being appointed the youngest U.S. Navy Chief of Naval Operations (CNO). As the 19th CNO, Admiral Zumwalt reformed U.S. Navy personnel policies in an effort to improve enlisted life and ease racial tensions. He was initiated a renaissance brother of Sigma Phi Epsilon on 10 APR 1985 – 11 years after his retirement from the Navy.

IA Gamma Brother
William L. Peters, Jr.
KIA 21 JUN 1969 Vietnam



21 JUN 1969

On this date, Vietnam War Veteran and IA Gamma Brother First Lieutenant William Lee Peters, Jr., U.S. Marine Corps Reserve made the ultimate sacrifice when his helicopter crashed while under enemy gunfire during operations in Quang Nam Province, Vietnam. Brother Peters was a pilot with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-FIVE (HMM-165), Marine Aircraft Group SIXTEEN (MAG-16), First Marine Aircraft Wing (1ST MAW).

In separation actions, First Lieutenant Peters was awarded the Navy Cross (one of only two SigEp Patriots known to have been awarded the second highest military decoration for valor bestowed to a member of the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps for extraordinary heroism in combat) and a Silver Star (the third highest military decoration for valor that can be awarded to any person serving in any capacity with the United States Armed Forces).

Brother Peters is honored on The Wall – the Vietnam Veterans Memorial – on Panel 22W Line 107.

Respect can be paid to Brother Peters at Elmwood Cemetery, De Witt, Iowa.

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 22 – 28 April

“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 noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.” ~ Steve Jobs

Brothers,

24 APR 1942

World War II Veteran and WI Alpha Brother Everett Roudebush entered the U.S. Army on this date after finishing a concert tour with Salvatore Baccaloni, noted Metropolitan Opera Company star. Everett would go on to achieve the rank of Corporal before being discharged.

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. During WWI, Brother Flood served in Company A, 350th Engineers, 80th Division before being discharged in 1919.

Joel was born in 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.

The same year he completed his military duty, Joel was elected Virginia State Commonwealth Attorney of Appomattox County. 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

U.S. Army World War II Veteran and NY Alpha Brother R. Charles Backus died on this date in Mexico, New York at the age of 84. During WWII he was a cryptographer in the Signal Corps.

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.

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

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, joined the Army National Guard in 1999, and was called to active duty in June 2005. Brother Webber was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry Regiment (Mechanized), Michigan Army National Guard on 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.

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 31 DEC 2012 – 06 JAN 2013

Brothers,

01 JAN 1920

On this date, World War I Veteran and OH Gamma Brother Captain Robert Lester Tavenner, U.S. Army was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) and Distinguished Service Medal for his courageous actions while deployed to France & Belgium. The DSC is the second highest military award presented to a member of the U.S. Army for extreme gallantry and risk of life in actual combat with an armed enemy force. Brother Tavenner is one of five SigEp Patriots to be awarded the DSC.

03 JAN 1941
World War II Veteran and PA Xi Brother First Lieutenant Paul Harvey Cunningham, U.S. Army was sworn in on this date as a member of the Seventy-seventh Congress. Brother Cunningham served the people of Iowa’s 6th District until 1943 when he was elected to serve the 5th District.

31 DEC 1942

NC Epsilon Brother Charles Henderson joined the U. S. Navy after graduation, and served 26 months overseas before being discharged at the end of the war at the rank of Lieutenant.

01 JAN 1943

On this date, DC Alpha Brother Kenneth H. Brunner, U.S. Army entered the service and obtained the rank of Captain and served on an "interesting duty" with the Manhattan District in Tennessee, headquarters for the atomic bomb before being discharged.

03 JAN 1943

Making the ultimate sacrifice on this date, World War II Veteran and MI Alpha Brother First Lieutenant James L. Lee, U.S. Army was in action over Western Europe while serving as co-pilot with the U.S. Army Air Corps 323rd Bomber Squadron, 91st Bomber Group (Heavy). Brother Lee was MI Alpha’s first casualty of WWII.

A SigEp at MI Alpha between 1935 and 1937, Brother Lee entered the service in the fall of 1941 after graduating from Carnegie Institute of Technology at Pittsburgh. He received his preliminary training at Maxwell Field, Montgomery, AL, and was later sent to Camden and Sumter, SC, before receiving his silver wings and commission at Shaw Field, in the summer of 1942.

His awards include the Purple Heart and Air Medal.

Brother Lee is memorialized at the Brittany American Cemetery, St. James (Manche), France.

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 25 JUN – 01 JUL

Brothers,

In U.S. military history this week, Brigadier General James G. Harbord, the Commanding General of the 4th Marine Brigade, notified American Expeditionary Force Headquarters on 26 JUN 1918 that Belleau Wood was "now U.S. Marine Corps entirely." After 20 days of combat, and at a cost of over 4,000 casualties, the 4th Brigade of Marines had proven its fighting heart. The grateful Commander of the French Sixth Army would soon decree that in all official correspondence, Belleau Wood would henceforth bear the name, "Bois de la Brigade de Marine." The Battle of Belleau Wood is also where the moniker “Devil Dogs” was used by German soldiers to describe U.S. Marines who fought so ferociously during the battle.

Anyone know how many SigEps served at Belleau Wood? The SigEp Patriots Project believes this is an important question, and we continue to strive to answer it.

This Week in SigEp Patriot History:

26 JUN 1953

On this day, U.S. Army WWI Veteran, Speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives, and U.S. Senator (North Carolina) NC Gamma Brother Willis Smith died while serving in the U.S. Congress.

Willis was born 19 DEC 1887 in Norfolk, VA, and became a SigEp at Trinity College (now Duke University). After graduating in 1910, he attended law school, was admitted to the bar in 1912, and during World War he served in the Army in Virginia during World War I.

From 1927-32, Brother Smith was a member of the North Carolina state House of Representatives, the last two years as Speaker. Twice he was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention.

At the Nuremburg Trials in 1946 he was an observer, and after serving as a U.S. delegate to the Interparliamentary Union (1951) he was selected as the chairman of the American delegation to the Union’s meeting in Bern, Switzerland in 1952.

Simultaneously, Brother Smith was serving in the U.S. Congress. In 1950, he was elected to fill the vacancy caused by the death of J. Melville Broughton, and he until his death in the naval hospital at Bethesda, MD.

Respect can be paid to Brother Smith at Oakwood Cemetery, Raleigh, North Carolina. He is gone but will never be forgotten.

01 JUL 1957

On this day, U.S. Army World War II Veteran and VA Zeta Brother Robert Jefferson Wood was assigned as the Army's Deputy Chief of Research and Development, working on a variety of projects including antimissile weapons and germ and gas warfare systems.

In the early 50s, Brother Wood was involved with the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s military system, and he would go on to be a U.S. Army four-star general before retiring in 1986 and also earn the SigEp Citation.

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

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 23 – 29 JAN

Brothers,

“The lists of members of Illinois Alpha in service were published regularly in the SigEp Journal. The first such listing was in November 1941 and these continued to be published until February 1946. The records indicate that our chapter had 154 members in military service during World War II.” ~ Taken from IL Alpha website

Why hasn’t The Journal regularly done the same since the beginning of the global war on terrorism? The SigEp Patriots Project has plenty of information and continues to desire to assist Richmond in recognizing our patriotic Brothers.

23 JAN 1928
KY Beta Brother Pharmacist Mate Third Class Kenneth James Goodman, U.S. Navy was born on this date.

25 JAN 1930
On this date, CO Beta Brother Captain Robert Donnice Urbana, U.S. Navy Reserve (Retired) was born in Denver, Colorado.

28 JAN 1931
Korean War Veteran and Prisoner of War, TN Alpha Brother Sergeant First Class John William “Bill” Rambo, U.S. Army / Tennessee National Guard was born on this date.

25 JAN 2004
On this date, U.S. Army World War II Veteran FL Alpha Brother Jack McKay Dyer, Sr. died in Winter Haven, Florida. SigEp Patriot Dyer was born on 20 OCT 1926 in Orlando, FL. His obituary listed him as “a life member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity at University of Florida”, and “a U.S. Veteran serving in the Army during WWII.”

Jack was an administrative manager for the groves department with Coca-Cola Foods for 40 years, and past Treasurer and President of the Orlando Amateur Athletic Association.

Respect can be paid to Brother Dryer at the Rolling Hills Cemetery in Winter Haven.

29 JAN 2005
World War II Veteran and CO Delta Brother Private Erling “Swede” Kristian Arnston, U.S. Army died on this date. SigEp Patriot Arnston was born on 04 MAR 1925, and before attending Colorado School of Mines he served as a combat infantryman in the Pacific during World War II.

Ever the Renaissance man, Swede enjoyed reading and sharing poetry or a good story, and was always the first to figure out an innovative way to fix something. In 1987, he retired from a career with Amoco Oil and moved to Grand Junction, Colo. It was there that he became active in the local Rotary club, participating in community activities and organizing its annual Christmas bell-ringing activities. Swede’s love of life was recognized throughout his lifetime and he received many honors and distinctions including the Victory Medal, Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, the Loyal Alumnus Award from the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, and the Paul Harris Fellow Award from his fellow Rotarians.

Respect can be paid to Brother Arnston at Sidney Cemetery in Sidney, Montana.

27 JAN 2009
U.S. Army Air Corps World War II Veteran IL Delta Brother James Powers died on this date in Peoria, Illinois. SigEp Patriot Powers was awarded the Bronze Star medal for his service in World War II, and was a founding member of the Army Air Museum in Great Britain. James was a sales engineer for Wilkins Pipe & Supply, retiring in 1995.

23 JAN 2010
This was a sad day last year for NC Delta.

World War II Veteran and NC Delta Brother Private First Class Samuel Mallette Gattis III, U.S. Marine Corps died at the age of 84, in Hillsborough, North Carolina. SigEp Patriot Gattis was born on 04 DEC 1925, and served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II before attending the University of North Carolina. Samuel retired after a long career as the first county manager of Orange County. Respect can be paid to Brother Mallette at St. Matthews Episcopal Church Cemetery, Hillsborough, NC.

Vietnam War Veteran and NC Delta Brother Major Robert Monroe McWhorter, U.S. Army (Retired) was a paratrooper and a weapons system operator, completing 137 combat missions in Southeast Asia. While at UNC, he served in the Air Force ROTC. After retiring from the Army, SigEp Patriot McWhorter worked in the banking industry.

24 JAN 2010
U.S. Army Veteran VT Alpha Brother Ferdinand “Ferd” Mario Anair Collins succumbed to Lou Gehrig’s disease at his home in St. Augustine, Florida at the age of 74. Born in Waterbury, Vermont on 08 DEC 1935, Ferd graduated from Waterbury High School where he distinguished himself as class president each year and as a leading contributor to champion basketball, baseball, and ski teams.

SigEp Patriot Collins began an Army career upon his graduation from Norwich with a B.S. in Business Administration and a commission as a Second Lieutenant. He served in the 14th Armored Cavalry, Bad Hersfeld, Germany, followed by a second tour in Germany in the 82nd Airborne Division Tank Battalion where he was promoted to tank company commander during the Berlin Wall tensions and Cold War. His last three-year assignment was at Middlebury College as an assistant professor teaching military science.

In 1968, Ferd began his civilian career at Deck House, Inc. of Acton, MA, rising to New England regional sales manager. During his 17 years at Deck House, he ranked first or second in sales volume each year. In 1984, his career move was to Pella Windows and Doors of New England as executive vice president and general manager. He brought the company to a 50 percent increase in growth and became president and chief operating officer before retiring.

Brother Collins was an incredible steward of the community. A Boy Scout leader, Little League baseball and soccer coach, and for years he was honored to be the Memorial Day parade marshal and to call out, with reverence, the name of each fallen veteran from Carlisle, MA. While living in Massachusetts, Ferd served his alma mater, Norwich University, for 15 years on the Board of Fellows with several committee assignments including recruitment, admissions, and building committee.

When Ferd and his wife retired to St. Augustine, FL in 1999, he continued his service to the community. He was a volunteer for five years at the Tournament of Players, Sawgrass, serving on the commissary committee for the golf pros. He was also a volunteer marshal at the Legends of Golf Tournament, World Golf Village, for several years, and as a member of the RSVP volunteer organization and for three years delivering Meals on Wheels weekly for the Council on Aging.

27 JAN 2011
On this date, two SigEp Patriots were lost to us.

U.S. Army Veteran MS Gamma Brother Rodney Lee Fulton died in Philadelphia, Mississippi. Rodney was a native of Neshoba County and a longtime resident of the Bond Community. He was a retired teacher and taught business education at Moselle, Bond, Neshoba Central, Choctaw Central and Philadelphia High School, and substitute taught at other tribal schools after retirement. Respect can be paid to SigEp Patriot Fulton at the Bond Methodist Cemetery in Philadelphia.

Vietnam War Veteran and TN Beta Brother Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Henry Milton Labiche, Jr., U.S. Army Medical Corps died in Johns Creek, Georgia. Born in New Orleans on 04 JUN 1936, his family moved to Jackson, Mississippi and there he became involved in the Boy Scouts of America – becoming an Eagle Scout.

Henry did his residency in Pathology in the United States Army Medical Corps from 1965 until 1971 where he obtained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His service in the Army took him to Honolulu, HI, where he worked at Tripler Army Hospital. Because of the Viet Nam conflict, Tripler was the best hospital offered to learn Pathology. Following Honolulu, He was stationed in St. Louis, MO, where he was Commanding Officer of the Medical Clinic.

After leaving military service, Henry and his family settled in Columbus, GA where he joined a practice in Pathology and later became director. Over the years, they moved several times, and upon retirement settled in LaGrange, Georgia. In retirement, Henry and his wife, Francie, enjoyed a number of charitable works including organizing blood drives for the American Red Cross and visiting hospice patients. Henry was a Fourth Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus and was last active in Council 9515.

Respect can be paid to SigEp Patriot Labiche at the St. Teresa Cemetery in Campbell, Missouri.

RECENT LOSSES TO THE ROLL
* GA Gamma Brother Lieutenant John Robert O’Neal, Sr., U.S. Navy Reserve died on 31 DEC in Blythewood, SC. Following graduation, John entered the Navy and became a pilot. He served his country on active duty for five years, as well as additional years a reserve officer.
* World War II Veteran and VA Alpha Brother Major John Thomas Watkins, Jr., U.S. Army Air Corps died in Morgantown, WV on 02 JAN. John joined the Army Air Corps in November of 1940, left Langley Field, VA for Australia with the 22nd Bomb Group 08 DEC 1941, and served in action until July 1944, when he was transferred home. He was separated from the service as a Major in 1946.
* World War II Veteran and NC Gamma Brother Captain James William Bew II, U.S. Army Air Corps passed away on 08 JAN 2012 at Treasure Coast Hospice in Stuart, Florida.
* U.S. Army World War II Veteran IA Gamma Brother Everett “Ev” Ermal Jones died at the hospital on 08 JAN 2012.
* U.S. Air Force and South Carolina Air National Guard Veteran, SC Alpha Brother Roger Krick Sr. passed away on 22 JAN 2012.

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

CELEBRATIONS!
* Proud days for NC MU! Brother Brian Plamondon was recently promoted to Second Lieutenant, United States Marine Corps, and Brother Jacob Rudy left for Marine Corps Officer Candidate School last week!

Congratulations to our Brothers and we wish them the best of luck!

UPDATE: SIGEP PATRIOTS PROJECT (SPP)
* SPP is very pleased to announce that the following SigEp Patriots have joined more than 420 such Brothers in the SigEps Who Serve Facebook group – the official such group of the SigEp Patriots Project:
TN Gamma Brother & Flight Surgeon Brad Sherman, U.S. Navy and TN Kappa Brother & MP Matt Hall, U.S. Army.

Brothers who serve/served in the U.S. military are welcome to join us at http://www.facebook.com/groups/sigepswhoserve. Not on Facebook? Send an email to sigepswhoserve@gmail.com to join the SPP listserve.

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, 05 – 11 DEC

In this edition of “This Week:”
- More SigEp Rangers!
- SigEp Patriot Promoted
- Another Patriotic SigEp Joins the Ranks
- Update: SigEp Patriots Project

11 DEC 1887
On this date, U.S. Army World War I Veteran VA Epsilon Brother Charles Walter Mason was born in Stafford, Ohio.

11 DEC 1932
VT Alpha Brother Lieutenant Colonel William Thomas Collins, U.S. Army / Vermont Army National Guard (Retired) was born on this date in Burlington, VT.

08 DEC 1935
U.S. Army Veteran VT Alpha Brother Ferdinand “Ferd” Mario Anair Collins was born on this date in Waterbury, Vermont.

07 DEC 1967
On this date, the U.S. Senate confirmed the appointment of World War II Veteran and FL Alpha Brother Major Winston Eugene Arnow, U.S. Army JAG Corps to a seat on the U.S. District Court Northern District of Florida.

This Week Last Year
MI Alpha Brother Lieutenant Junior Grade John Dennis Bunbury, U.S. Navy died in Rockford, Michigan. John was born in South Bend, Indiana, and lived in Niles, Michigan until the nuns encouraged him to attend Loras Academy in Dubuque, Iowa. Brother Bunbury graduated from the University of Michigan, School of Business in 1951 and married his Tri Delta college sweetheart Barbara Krause in 1952.

Soon after graduation, John served on an amphibious flagship in the Navy as a Lieutenant J.G. He dedicated his entire professional career to Wolverine World Wide and retired from the company as President of the International Division. Brother Bunbury unselfishly volunteered his time as President of the Rockford School Board and as President of the Rockford Lions Club. He was also a member of the Rockford City Council, the Board of Aquinas College and the Board of the Independent Bank.

In his later years, he truly enjoyed his work as a member of the State Board of the Michigan Special Olympics. Brother Bunbury was a member of the Macatawa Bay Yacht Club and sailed in 18 Chicago-Mackinac races, and, along with a few of his Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity brothers, was a founding member of Cannonsburg Ski Area.


Wreaths Across America™ (WAA)
Yesterday, Wreaths Across America held more than 600 events all around the country. It was great to be part of one such event at Arlington National Cemetery other SigEps for the second year in a row, and to be able to place wreaths at the gravesite of several SigEp Patriots who gave so much so that we can enjoy our way of life.

Here you can see OK Alpha Brother Specialist Trey Lewis, U.S. Army National Guard laying a wreath at the grave of Korean War Veteran and TN Alpha Brother Sergeant First Class John Rambo, U.S. Army who was a POW for 19 months before returning home.

CELEBRATE!
- Congratulations to Operation ENDURING FREEDOM (OEF) Veteran OH Kappa Brother Mike Woodall who was promoted to Sergeant of Marines on Tuesday.
- On Friday, NJ Alpha Brother Second Lieutenant Andrew Boyle, U.S. Army and OEF Veteran and FL Delta Brother Captain Nate Davis, U.S. Army graduated Ranger School at Fort Benning. Congratulations!
- Congratulations go out to TX Delta Brother Colby Farley who enlisted in the Army National Guard (Texas) this week. Thank you for stepping up to serve the country!

RECENT LOSSES TO THE ROLL
* U.S. Army Veteran OH Theta Brother John Joseph Fesenmeier died 07 DEC at the age of 75 after a long and courageous struggle with a complicated, multisystem illness. Brother Fesenmeier earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati and was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. He then earned Masters and PhD. Degrees in Chemical Engineering from Carnegie-Mellon University. John served two years in the US Army in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD. He moved to Mobile in 1976, and was an active member of the Men of St. Joseph. Brother Fesenmeier volunteered at Providence Hospital and was a member of the Country Club of Mobile. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Ignatius Catholic Church at 10 A.M. tomorrow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Robin Baggett Educational Fund at any Regions Bank location or McGill-Toolen Catholic High School. Entombment will be in the Mobile Memorial Gardens Mausoleum.

* MO Zeta Brother Sergeant James L. Maynard, U.S. Army passed away on 09 DEC at his home in St. Peters, Missouri surrounded by friends and family, following a battle with cancer. Brother Maynard was born May 26th, 1934 in Logan, West Virginia. Jim served his country as a sergeant in the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne during the 1950's after which he went to SEMO in Cape Giraurdeau, MO. He was a dedicated brother of Sigma Phi Epsilon. Services: The family is being served by The Baue Funeral Home, 3950 West Clay, St. Charles, MO. A private memorial will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the BJC Hospice, 8300 Eager Road, Suite 500A, St. Louis, MO 63144.

SIGEP PATRIOTS PROJECT (SPP) UPDATE
* SigEps Who Serve – the official Facebook group of the SPP – would like to welcome SigEp Patriots Victor Morris and Colby Farley.

The passing of SigEp Patriots Fesenmeier and Maynard remind us that once they have died, we are unable to collect, honor and show respect to the patriotic accomplishments and sacrifices of such Brothers. This is one of several goals of the SigEp Patriots Project, and we continue to desire a mutually beneficial partnership with HQ in the achievement of this end. We hope you will reach out to Richmond to express your support for this effort, and will contact SPP with any information, comments, and /or recommendations (Sigepswhoserve@gmail.com).

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, 28 NOV – 04 DEC

In this edition of “This Week:”
- A Week with Two SigEp Patriots Killed in Action
- Former CNO was Born This Week
- Wreaths Across America at Arlington and more than 600 Locations
- Update: SigEp Patriots Project

29 NOV 1916
U.S. Navy World War II Veteran, Governor (Colorado) and CO Beta Brother John Arthur Love was born on this date in Gibson City, Illinois.

29 NOV 1920
Renaissance Brother and Former U.S. Navy Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Elmo Russell Zumwalt, Jr., U.S. Navy (Retired) was born on this date in San Francisco, California.

03 DEC 1944
On this date, World War II Veteran and OK Alpha Brother Staff Sergeant Robert Bernard Patterson, U.S. Army made the ultimate sacrifice when he was killed in action in Germany. Brother Patterson joined the ROTC program at Oklahoma A&M in October 1942, and enlisted in the Army in June 1943. His decorations include the Order of the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal and Presidential Citation.

Extensive research of national and U.S. cemeteries overseas, the location of Brother Patterson’s internment is unknown. I would appreciate it if you contact me if you have that or any other information regarding Brother Patterson.

30 NOV 1964
World War II Veteran and IN Alpha Brother Brigadier General M.C. Smith, U.S. Air Force retired on this date after 22 years of service to the Nation.

29 NOV 1967
On this date, World War II Veteran, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Northern District of Florida and FL Alpha Brother Major Winston Eugene Arnow, U.S. Army JAG Corps was nominated by President Lyndon B. Johnson to the bench of the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Florida.

03 DEC 2006
Operation IRAQI FREEDOM Veteran and TN Alpha Brother Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Trane McCloud, U.S. Marine Corps was killed in action on this date when the Sea Knight helicopter he was a passenger in crashed in to Lake Qadisiyah, Al Anbar Province, Iraq during an emergency landing.

Brother McCloud, 39, served almost 17 years with the Marines – including tours at The Pentagon, a fellowship on Capitol Hill and as an instructor at the Marine Corps Officer Candidate School in Quantico. He began his tour in Iraq in September 2006 assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force. Trane was was promoted posthumously to Lieutenant Colonel, and respect can be paid to Brother McCloud in Section 60 Site 8455 at Arlington National Cemetery.

TN Alpha Brother Wade Hutchens said a trust fund has been established for McCloud's widow and the couple's three young children. Donations should be sent to the McCloud Family Fund, c/o Barnes & Sherry Financial Management, 713 Main St., Port Jefferson, N.Y. 11777.

Wade said checks should be made payable to Margaret McCloud, his widow. Anyone wishing their contribution to be specifically for the children's education fund should make checks to College America, he added.

Wreaths Across America™ (WAA)
This coming Saturday, 10 DEC, the SigEp Patriots Project will be at Arlington National Cemetery for the second year in a row showing our respect and appreciation while participating in this great event that is also taking place in more than 600 locations in America.

Maps will be supplied showing the gravesite location of every SigEp Patriot that is known to be buried at Arlington. An event was created on Facebook – check it out at http://www.facebook.com/events/136519363120292/events/136519363120292

The WWA story began 20 years ago when the Worcester Wreath Company from Harrington, Maine donated 5,000 wreaths to be placed on the headstones of our Nation's fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery.

Wherever you are located follow this link http://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/Locations and then click on your state to find a WAA event near you.

RECENT LOSS TO THE ROLL
* U.S. Army World War II Veteran and WI Alpha Brother Joseph Kortenhof died peacefully at home in St. Louis, Missouri of lung cancer on 29 NOV 2011. After serving in the Army Air Force, Brother Kortenhof earned degrees from Lawrence College and the University of Michigan Law School. Joseph was listed in “The Best Lawyers in America”, “Who’s Who in American Law” and “Who’s Who in America.” Our thoughts and prayers go out to Joseph’s wife, Althea, and the rest of his family.

SIGEP PATRIOTS PROJECT (SPP) UPDATE
* SigEps Who Serve – the official Facebook group of the SPP – now numbers 415! We welcome SigEp Patriots Ben Garner, Steven Leemon, Chris Bush, Victor Morris and Grant Peters.

If you are a SigEp Patriot and on Facebook, just click on the link to go to the SigEps Who Serve page http://www.facebook.com/groups/sigepswhoserve. You will then be contacted to supply your home chapter and military affiliation. In addition to Facebook, SPP also has a listserve that you can join by writing to sigepswhoserve@gmail.com.

* SPP Chapter Representatives / Points of Contact (POCs)
- ND Alpha President, Mark Becker is the 12th and newest SigEp Patriot Project POC, and we are lucky to have him with us.

- NE Beta Alumni Brother & AVC VP of Communication and Finance, Cory Butler is now the primary SPP POC for NE Beta. This week, Cory added another 50 names to the archives bringing the total of NE Beta Patriots who serve/served in the U.S. military to 90. Thanks Cory!

POCs can be undergraduate or alumni brothers. Contact SPP at sigepswhoserve@gmail.com to establish your POC.

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, 24 - 30 OCT

In this “Last Week” edition:
- A World War I Ace’s activity over France
- Birth of the internet by SigEp Citation recipient
- Death of World War II Veteran and Congressman
- A Brother who made the ultimate sacrifice
- Two more SigEp Patriots passed away this week
- A Brother safely returns from a successful Afghanistan deployment
- The SigEp Patriots Project and the official Facebook group continues to grow

28 & 29 OCT 1918
World War I Veteran and Ace NY Beta Brother Major James Armand Meissner, U.S. Army Air Service had his seventh and eighth (final) aerial kills over Bantheville and Buzancy, France, respectively.

26 OCT 1922
U.S. Army World War II Veteran OH Gamma Brother Robert W. Bishop was born on this date in Cleveland, Ohio.

26 OCT 1936
On this date, MI Alpha Brother First Lieutenant George Henry Cress, U.S. Army was born.

25 OCT 1964
Operation DESERT STORM Veteran MO Lambda Brother Jay Scott Danner, U.S. Air National Guard (Missouri) was born on this date in Maryville, Missouri.

29 OCT 1969
On this date the internet was born when U.S. Navy World War II Veteran and SigEp Citation Recipient OR Alpha Brother Dr. Doug Engelbart’s ARPANET (the precursor to the internet) computer at Stanford Research Institute (SRI) received the first message sent between two nodes. The message, sent from the SDS Sigma 7 computer at UCLA to SRI's SDS 940 computer, was supposed to consist of the word "log", followed by Engelbart's reply of "in", thus spelling the word "log-in". The computer at UCLA crashed after sending only two characters — "lo" — but those letters were instantaneously received at 10:30 PM local time on 29 OCT 1969 at Engelbart's SRI laboratory, making it arguably the birthplace of the internet.

26 OCT 1997
World War II Veteran, FL State Representative, U.S. Congressman and FL Alpha Brother Captain Donald Ray Matthews, U.S. Army died on this date in Gainesville, Florida. Born in Micanopy, FL on 03 OCT 1907, Brother Matthews was a school teacher, principal and member of the Florida state house of representatives before serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. Discharged at the rank of Captain, Don served as an alternate delegate from Florida to the Democratic National Convention in 1952, and went on represent the Florida 8th District in the U.S. Congress from 1953-67. Respect can be paid to Brother Matthews at the Hawthorne Cemetery, Hawthorne, FL.

This Week in SigEp Patriot History, 03 – 09 OCT

While these patriotic Americans were not SigEps, these recent stories convey the emotion and commitment to the memory and service of brothers-in-arms and may help some of you understand one of the missions of the SigEp Patriots Projects (SPP):

Hundreds gather for burial of former Vietnam MIA Marvin Foster
Phillips http://timesfreepress.com/news/2011/sep/27/a1-laid-to-rest-hundreds-gather-for-burial-of

Four will finally get their due on Vietnam War Memorial wall http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/Dogged-effort-will-put-area-man-s-dad-s-name-on-2188527.php

03 OCT 1907
World War II Veteran, FL State Representative, U.S. Congressman, and FL Alpha Brother Captain Donald Ray Matthews, U.S. Army was born in Micanopy, Florida on this date.

03 OCT 1918
According to information published in The Sigma Phi Epsilon Journal, Volume 16, World War I Veteran and NH Alpha Brother Private First Class Charles Enos Tayntor, U.S. Army – Ambulance Service, Army Medical Corps died on this date in France.

08 OCT 2010
On this date, U.S. Navy World War II Veteran, and NY Alpha Brother Howard P. Nulse died in Naples, Florida. Born 09 APR 1926 in Charleston, WV, Brother Nulse graduated from Syracuse University School of Engineering, and was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon. He was employed by the DuPont Company for 37 years. A Sailor to the end, his family scattered his ashes in the Chesapeake Bay.

RECENT LOSSES TO THE ROLL
Since the previous edition of “This Week” the following SigEp Patriots have passed away:

22 SEP
– World War II U.S. Army Veteran, Kansas State Senator, and KS Beta Brother Merrill H. Werts
25 SEP
– World War II Veteran and CO Alpha Brother Fire Controlman Second Class Petty Officer Gale Erwin Brown, U.S. Navy
– TX Alpha Brother Captain André Bourchard, U.S. Army Reserve (Retired)
– U.S. Veteran, Past Grand President, and Order of the Golden Heart Recipient TX Beta Brother Jackie Don “Jack” Wheeler

26 SEP
– SC Alpha Brother Frederick Lee Day, U.S. Army Ready Reserve/National Guard (South Carolina)

GOOD NEWS!
* In Afghanistan earlier today, U.S. Army and Operation ENDURING FREEDOM Veteran IL Eta Brother Zach Deets was promoted to Sergeant – his second promotion during his deployment. Congratulations, Brother!
* The SPP Official Facebook Group – SigEps Who Serve (SWS – http://www.facebook.com/groups/sigepswhoserve) – now numbers 336 with six new members. Welcome Brothers!
* 2Lt Yanni Dracopoulos, U.S. Air Force headed to Naval Air Station Pensacola to continue the journey that is his military career. Through SWS, Yanni was able to connect with three other Brother Patriots currently at NAS Pensacola.

We are always looking to post news items about SigEp Patriots. If you have something you would like to share please send an email to sigepswhoserve@gmail.com.

Fraternally and Respectfully,

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