Posted by Damon Hofstrand on March 15, 2002:

I didn't know Larry that well at the Academy, but we got better acquainted at the Air Defense Basic Course. I will never forget one of the conversations we had. He told me about his family's business operating a sailing ship in the Virgin Islands. He told me about sailing his ship into a secluded harbor, dropping anchor and SCUBA Diving on an untouched reef. It became obvious to me that Larry had lived a life much different than most people. He also told me that he had given thought to entering the Olympics as a representative of the Virgin Islands. I was amazed by his idea and his boldness in thinking such thoughts. I gained a whole new level of understanding and respect for Larry that day. Later in life when I heard the phrase "thinking outside of the box", I immediately thought of Larry. When the Winter Olympics started this year, Larry came to mind again. I sent him an email half-jokingly to see if he was in the Olympics this year. Apparently, I was too late. I learned of his death the next week. My email message remains unanswered. Many of us remember a brief encounter with a fellow classmate that somehow opened our eyes to new possibilities or spurred us on in some way. Larry holds such a place in my memory. Thank you, Larry. Thank you and may God bless you and your family. You will be sorely missed. -Damon

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