Louis John Speidel

West Point, 1968

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Roger David Hardesty on November 6, 2003:

My cousin's husband John seemed larger than life to a kid in 8th grade. Heading off to Viet Nam, he left behind a Porche he'd bought while stationed in Germany. I really took notice of him when I heard that he wanted to be an astronaut. Being a combat helicopter pilot was ostensibly a stepping stone toward what we knew would be an impressive future. I remember a man, confident in his uniform and intention, disciplined and focussed, yet quick to produce an 'aw shucks' smile. He disarmed his prospective inlaws with charm and courtly manners. Until I saw him in white gloves, I never knew such glamour to be associated with West Point. I was impressed by the etiquette my cousin mastered, when dating him at the Academy. Be it known, that the daughter born after John was shot down, and whose cry he heard by telephone - before dying of his wounds in Japan - not only bears the man's wry smile but his capable mind. Just like her father, she is committed to making sure that right prevails. Using her legal talents in Federal District Court, I know that John's principled character yet prevails.

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