View a eulogy for William Jerry Grabner, USMA '63, who passed away on November 12, 2019.
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William Jerry Grabner
West Point, 1963
Be Thou At Peace
Posted by BG R.M. Ong (Ret) on April 5, 2020:
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Bill was my roommate during Junior (Cow) Year and a nicer guy than he -- would be difficult to find. I observed in him the qualities of an outstanding officer. He was intelligent, perhaps in the top 15% of our class in academics. He was also a good athlete, who contributed much to our Company's intramural competitions. He was a hard worker, who completed his tasks with speed and thoroughness. But above all, he was helpful and friendly to everyone -- an all-around Mr. Nice Guy. On Graduation Day, 5 June 1963 -- and my wedding day -- Bill furnished the Bridal Car, a brand-new Pontiac Grand Prix, and chauffeured Esther from the Thayer Hotel to the Catholic Chapel at West Point. And after the wedding rites, he joined the ushers to form the Crossed-Sabers Arch as 2LT and Mrs. Ong exited the Chapel door. Bill and I said our good-byes -- and parted ways after Graduation Day-- to serve our respective countries. Our paths crossed 6 years later in war-torn Vietnam. I was stationed in Long Binh, while he was at Bien Hoa, the adjoining camp. Bill was still the same quiet fellow, but this time, more poised and confident as a seasoned Officer in an Engineer Battalion. Fast-forward to our 50th Reunion at West Point -- Bill and I howdied and shook again, and for the last time. I also met Sharon, whom he had met and dated during our Firstie (senior) year. She was now Mrs. G and they had 6 children together -- and perhaps hold the Class Record for offsprings! Since then, Bill and I have kept in touch with each other, via the Internet, as members of the Class '63 Forum. Recently, I was saddened to learn that my ex-roommate had passed away. I'm sure he left behind many friends and neighbors who will miss Mr. Nice Guy for a long, long time. I know I will. And now my final salute to my ex-roommate, my friend and esteemed classmate. Well done, Bill! Be thou at peace! Ray Brigadier General Ramon M. Ong (Retired) Armed Forces of the Philippines USMA 1963 |
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