John Kingsland Terry

West Point, 1965

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by John Vann on February 22, 2015:

Those of us in M-1 were fortunate enough to enjoy knowing Jack for two full years before graduation, and his grin and wit left as lasting an impression as his soft spoken strength in the boxing ring or on the football field. Eleanor and I didn't see Jack again til the 10th Reunion, when he and Teddy and Terry stayed with us, and Jack wanted to play racquetball with one leg. John Malpass, Tom Carll and I joined him apprehensively, esp when he said he had to stop for a minute after a half hour's workout. He left, returned, and explained he had to empty the sweat in his artificial leg...it was too heavy. Next day he wanted to play tennis, and we did. Amazing guy, and that spirit never stopped. He'd seem to disappear for a year or two, and we'd lose contact, until we met Susan in Baltimore, with all the additional family he had adopted. We'll never know how many people he helped in so many ways, but Jack had that unique ability to take folks with troubles and set them on the right path. Despite his disabilities. Susan cared for him for many years as Parkinson's took its toll, and those of us who saw Jack at the 45th were visibly moved by his effort to join us. Rick Shinseki made a special trip to Castle Point to see Jack, which bolstered his spirits, but it was Jack who ended up bolstering everyone else when his name was announced from the podium as a special visitor at dinner.....what a reception, and a deserved one that reflected the immense love and respect we all have for Jack. We're all proud to have known Jack, and know he's smiling that ever present grin from above as everyone prepares to honor him next week. Thanks, Susan, for caring for Jack for us, and thanks, Jack, for all you've done as a faithful servant-leader. John and Eleanor Vann

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