1958
As commander of the United States Persian Gulf force, Admiral Hal Bernsen had to answer some tough questions when the U.S.S. Stark was hit by an Iraqui missile in May. Some of you may have seen the picture of Hal in the New York Times at his press conference in Bahrain.
Class president Walt Vail received a telegram from Admiral Bernsen at the 30th reunion in June which reads: "Greetings from the Persian Gulf. Perhaps a moment of silence at the banquet for the men of the Stark. I'll make it to number 35. Best wishes, Hal Bernsen, U.S.S. LaSalle."
As I write this for a July 15 deadline, LarryHampton and family are leaving for Italy to spend a year or two in Tuscany, where they have rented a monastery 15 miles east of Siena. Friends can ring the farmer on the premises, Hugo, at (39.577) 72-46-26 and say "Hampton" slowly. They have a spectacular view of the Tuscan hills, excellent local wine, wonderful sightseeing, thermal baths and lots of rooms.
In addition to his fine work on the Alumni Fund, Dave Badger is translating a series of Japanese algebra and geometry textbooks, hoping to find out "how that country consistently whips us in math." In his spare time, Dave is president of a local singing group and serves on a local school board. This summer he and his wife plan a climb in the Alps and will see Ray and Lenita Robbins in Zermatt. Ray runs a school there where he brings 35 sophomore students together for one semester for a vigorous academic program combined with climbing experience in the Alps.
Gerald Garbacz, executive vice president and head of the W.R. Grace & Company General Business Group, has been named director of the W.R. Grace Company.
Reunions really are fun. I will devote space in this column and the next one to the 30th reunion. For example, it was fun to see the smile on John Grafs face when he was elected the new class president, following the inestimable Walter Vail. Among other service for the class, John did a terrific job on the previous reunion and brings enthusiasm and capability to this leadership position. John Otis was re-elected treasurer and your writer re-elected secretary.
The persons who gathered in Hanover under the '58 banner owe a great deal of thanks to Bryant Barnard and Bob Keller. They supervised every detail, worked from dawn until dark and never quit until the last events were completed. Out thanks to both of them. Dave Brock, otherwise known as Chief Justice of the New Hampshire Supreme Court Brock, was the reunion treasurer. Dave sat at the table taking in money and helping register people from early light until dusk for two days running. Ron Snow was chairman of the nominations committee. Paced by his son, Ron also outdistanced all other 'sBs in the reunion run.
Just a few years ago I met Mel Alperin. He was a young fellow. At reunion he told me he is semi-retired. With the energy and ability that Mel possesses, that may be an understatement. Another opportunity, another career?
Frank Sands continues to live the baronial life in Vermont, commuting to Boston two days a week as he operates King Arthur Flour.
Glower Jones displayed his usual quiet capacity to enjoy the reunion activities. Glower is an Atlanta attorney. Phil Wood was virtually unrecognizable as he had lost 35 pounds.
Dodd Wilson has over 400 members in his medical school faculty in Little Rock, Ark. There are four teaching hospitals under his supervision. Dodd's daughter is presently a student at Dartmouth. Bill Hartley arrived at the tent looking like he had just stepped off the TV set. He glanced about at the casual crowd, removed his coat and tie and began enjoying himself. Judge Louis Levy will soon be the chief judge in his circuit in Akron, Ohio.
Don McCree came to reunion, then had to return to New York to participate in the Manufacturers Hanover decision to add $1.7 billion to their loan reserve. He came back to Hanover looking for some peace and rest.
John Coulter has thrived on building a private law practice in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., specializing in estate planning and real estate. Meanwhile Roger Bruttomesso similarly thrives at Price Waterhouse in New York.
You've read about Bob Downey's many accomplishments in the securities field. Did you know he has two of the cutest little kids ever seen?
Bruce Gemberling is hands down my choice for the class dancer. Must be how he keeps so slim.
We had hopes that Paul Zeller would direct an alumni glee club. Professor Zeller died prior to reunion. Dartmouth and his many friends lost a man who stood for those qualities of manliness, self-discipline and excellence which influenced each person who worked with him. His memory is undying.
Unquestionably, for each who sang, ineluding Dodd Wilson, Phil Stoddard, LeonGoodrich and myself, being directed by Eric Kunzel in the reunion glee club and dedicating the performance to Paul Zeller was the highlight of the reunion for us.
It will be "58 out!" For the DartmouthHarvard weekend, October 16-18 in Cambridge, Mass. President Freedman will speak Friday evening and '58 will have a hospitality suite afterwards at the MarriottCopley Plaza. Dartmouth Night will be October 30. Dave Bradley again offers hospitality and a keg at his office near the stadium before the football game. Announcements for both weekends will provide details and sign up information.
940 Shermer Road Northbrook, IL 60062
