Posted by John Poncy on November 27, 2004:

Tommie, I learned more about life and leadership from having you as my roommate firstie year than almost any other experience I had at West Point. You always claimed that we learned much from each other but I know I was the one who walked away the richer for it by far. You saw potential in so many places that I could not, and showed compassion in so many ways that I did not. I think of you often and my family and I have kept you in our prayers. I have never known a more talented officer, a more conscientious leader, or a more respected and remarkable man. I miss you Tommie, and not just you, but the person I will always believe you would have been. The world is a far less interesting place without you in it. I have always been able to avoid being too troubled by the "why?"s in this world, but your passing was one I never have been at peace with, and doubt I ever will. Maybe it was you, Tommie, that this world was not prepared for. I for one know that you left it far better than you found it, and maybe that was enough. Be at peace, my brother. John

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