Rogelio Leon Luis

West Point, 1962

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by BG R.M. Ong (Ret) on June 14, 2020:

Roger was one year ahead of me at West Point. As a Cadet, he was always helpful in getting a Foreign Cadet like myself get adjusted to the demanding life of a Plebe. We were assigned to different Regiments -- and our barracks were far apart from each other -- but that did not prevent him from checking up on me once in a while, to make sure I had no serious problems. After Plebe Year, Roger noticed that I was well-adjusted in academics, athletics and other aspects of Cadet life, so he didn't need to advise or help me anymore. After graduation, Roger and I rarely saw each other because our Army assignments were always in different parts of the country. He took his optional retirement, while I continued until my compulsory retirement 10 years later. When we were both retired -- and living in Manila -- we often saw each other during the get-togethers of the West Point Society of the Philippines. My wife Esther met his wife Hedy and they became fast friends; even choosing to sit beside each other at the dinner table, whenever possible. Roger's personality hadn't changed much through the years; he was still the same quiet, friendly guy -- with a smile and helping hand for everyone. Esther and I knew that Hedy had some health problems in later years, but Roger, still slim and trim, always appeared strong as an ox. Hence I was surprised to learn that Roger had suddenly passed away. We had no chance to express our sympathies and condolences, because we were stranded for 3 months in the USA, caused by travel restrictions due to the Coronavirus crisis. Well done, Roger; be thou at peace! And now my final salute to a good friend, a great guy, and a fine West Pointer. Brigadier General Ramon M. Ong (Retired) Armed Forces of the Philippines USMA 1963

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