Posted by Bill Murphy on February 28, 2012:

West Point and the Class of 1964 lost one of its most distinguished graduates. From the first moment John arrived at West Point I believe he started thinking of ways to make the world a better place. I think he succeeded. He touched many lives through his generosity. The first time I recall he made West Point better was through his work at KDET. While most of us were groggily stumbling around getting ready for the day he was already up and the songs he played helped brighten our gray lives. He also impacted the cadets through his work on the Pointer, Howitzer, and Mortar. Later on he used what he had learned to publish his Class of 1964 Almanacs which strengthened the bonds forged from 5 July 1960 through 3 Jun 1964. His books did more to keep us together as a class than any reunion, other gathering, or correspondence. They also are valuable historical documents. John was blessed with a keen intellect. He also had a very infectious smile and calm demeanor which instantly marked him as one of the "Good Guys." Every time I saw him he made me feel like I was the most important person to him at that moment. The Class Motto is "Stars in Store for 64". John was one of the first to attain academic stars and then post graduation he became a Star in the court room. I pity the poor attorneys who found out that he was the opposing counsel. I feel very lucky to have been his friend and classmate. Bill Murphy Classmate and Friend

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