Run To Honor Blog
LCDR Robert Vessely '72 was lost in a mid-air collision on August 31, 1983. He "always excelled, whether in the classroom, on the athletic field, or at a party." As a midshipman, he was active in the scuba and skydiving clubs; as an officer, he received the distinguished student award at the Naval Test Pilot School.
He was survived by his wife, daughter, and unborn son.
To Honor!
William "Salty" Watkins, III, '89 was killed in action over Iraq on April 7, 2003 while serving as a weapons officer aboard a F-15E with the 333rd Fighter Squadron of the USAF.
He was a NFO for 12 years before transferring to the Air Force to be stationed with his wife, an Air Force Major. She survived him, as did his young son and an unborn child.
His sister remembered: "My brother was one of the most loyal and generous people I've ever known. He was a wonderful father, husband and brother. He will be missed by all who knew him. Not only was he a gentleman, he was a gentle man."
To Honor!
Lewis "Lew" Atkins '46 was "Conscientious and filled with a determination which became even more intense as exam weeks approached, he could be depended on to do a job right. Taut sails and many hours on the soccer field occupied his free time. …when the smoke of battle is blown away, he will be there waiting for the next round."
Lew was lost on February 2, 1955 when the F9F Cougar fighter he was piloting crashed near Otay Mesa, California. He was survived by his wife, Lois, and two daughters, Lynn, age 7, and Gary, age 2.
To Honor!