Class Note 1975
It is late April and Eliza and I are hunkered down during this novel coronavirus pandemic. Life remains calm, but somber, as Galveston Island, Texas, seeks to keep the lid on the spread of infection. As of this writing, so far, so good; but the beaches open back up this weekend and we hope for no setbacks. I am hopeful that all of our classmates have remained safe and healthy during these challenging times.
At times like this, many people become reflective and remember other trials and challenging situations. Facebook is a place that our class has returned to again and again to share stories. In the last several weeks there have been many reminiscences of the draft and the uncertainty or resignation that accompanied a low number. Andy McDowell got us started with not only his remembrance, but also with a reminder to thank those who serve so that we can enjoy the lives we have. Ron Akie and Brad Ashley drew No. 14 and No. 6, respectively. Both rode the bus together to Manchester, New Hampshire, for their physicals. Stu Rolfe was No. 16, not sure if he was on that bus as well. Thankfully, the draft was canceled, and I don’t believe either made the trip to Southeast Asia. Dave Rettig spent the summer of 1972 in Quantico at Marine Corps platoon leaders class office training.
Speaking of Andy McDowell, he has found a new way to serve. While hanging out minding his own business, Andy was called back to his old company near New York City to assist with much-needed medical supplies. Apparently, he helped with the critical needs of those fighting on the frontlines. Walter Evans is still delivering babies in Dallas and in early April reported that seven doctors at his hospital had already tested positive, with one on a ventilator. Our classmates in the medical profession are surely among the most at-risk responders, and we all wish them the best and hope they come through this with health intact.
On a truly somber note, I report the passing of Jim Tyre in March this year. You will find his obituary in the online DAM.
And from our eyes and ears in Hanover comes this report from Jeff Sassorossi as of the first week in April: “We, too, are hunkered down. I am three and a half weeks into working from home as the College is essentially closed with classes being taught online. A real bummer for the senior class, but obviously a necessity. We all hope this situation doesn’t last too long. Our daughter Krissy is supposed to get married this August, we’re so keeping our fingers crossed that the Covid will have abated enough for us to have the ceremony.” I am sure many of you have similar situations, missing weddings, funerals, births, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. Sometimes it is very satisfying to check in with old friends at a time like this—so do that. Send me a note, give me call, or let’s have a video chat.
Vox clamantis in Tejas.
—Stephen D. Gray, 3627 Avenue M, Galveston, TX 77550; (650) 302-8739; fratergray@gmail.com
