Richard William Masson

West Point, 1955

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Matt Schepps on September 5, 2000:

Dick Masson was my friend. I did not know him well at West Point, and our careers obviously took different paths. However, shortly after my return to the Washington DC area in 1979 I joined the Army Navy Country Club. Dick was a member and a tennis player, and we often played together on the courts. I got to know him well. and I enjoyed talking to him about many topics particularly those involving the Class of 1955. Dick was a doer, and he gave of himself in many ways. He helped and organized class functions at the Club. He had been a class officer. He helped with the new Constitution. He was always available for advice and assistance. I know of no one who supported the Class of 1955 more than Dick. I was aware for quite awhile the Dick was fighting cancer. He fought it hard, and continued playing tennis even while he was being treated. He made no excuses. He lost a step but always gave it his best. I enjoyed playing with him. He was a good partner. Just a little over a month ago, Dick and Greta had me over to their house for dinner. My wife Betty was on a cultural exchange to Japan, and they wanted to make sure I was eating well. Hugh and Ann Quinn were also there. It was a lovely evening, and Dick was in good spirits. I perhaps stayed longer than I should have, but I was enjoying myself so much. We talked about the reunion. Dick so wanted to go. He loved West Point, and his Class of 1955. Matt Schepps 5 Sept 2000

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