Posted by Eugene A. Fox on May 5, 2012:

John Malcolm was my Plebe Year roommate in Company H-2, far off in the Lost Fifties. What a year it was! John's dry sense of humor and adventuresome spirit kept things lively. A few of the memories. The Rolls straight edge razor that he bought to tame his dark black whiskers. It did that and then some; coming close to making him a head shorter upon occasion. And I have to admit he was a tough customer---he was the only guy to beat me in Plebe wrestling class-a stain on my escutcheon to this day. Black Malcolm fought the Tactical Department equally hard, frequently crying out, "...they can't do this to me!" His fate was sealed when he met the beautiful Mary, the love of his life and the envy of all H-2 files. After graduation, we went our separate ways. He served in armor units while I was airborne and air mobile inclined. This fit well with his Patonesque outlook on the Army. Our paths crossed again at Fort Ord where he commanded a training battalion and was very active in community affairs, especially in activities for children. Based on this strong performance, his career took off. He served with distinction in the 1st Armored Division in Germany and subsequently as Brigadier General, Assistant Division Commander of the 5th Infantry Division. From there it was on to DCSOPS in the Pentagon. Throughout his life, Malcolm followed the exhortation, "Make the last lap fast, boys." This he did with gusto and lived up to the Howitzer prediction that his dedication to the Service would carry him to the top. May God bless and keep him.

admin