Theodore Scott Westhusing

West Point, 1983

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Christopher A. Lindberg on September 13, 2009:

It's been nine years since I last saw Ted. In the past few years I tried to find his name in the rolls under AKO, no luck. I suspected there was some glitch with AKO. I wish that had been the case. I served with Ted in the 325 A.I.R. Ted was by Brigade XO, and hence my first-line leader. As his Personnel Officer (without an English Degree), Ted took frequent occasion to mentor me in the higher skill levels of the proper application of spelling and grammar. Once he even ordered me to trade in my Webster for an Oxford so I would have the tools to achieve the high standard he demanded. Ted was tough. He had grit. There was little he would not sacrifice to achieve the highest of standards or to do the right thing. I think that many people who briefly served with Ted were overcome with his professionalism and unending drive. With my office adjacent to his, I got to know Ted well. Besides being the consummate professional, Ted was truly a great man. Usually serious in word, deed, and purpose; he would occasionally surprise you with his wit and warm smile. It was during these times he would open up a little and you could clearly see just how big his heart really was. His passion for his country and those with whom he served had few equals. When I left the 82nd, Ted sat me down and made me promise to come visit him at West Point. I'll be keeping that promise in the months to come, although with the deepest of sorrow in realization that we won't be able to share words. Ted's professionalism and leadership impacted me greatly as an Army Officer. The ripple he started with me and others will no doubt resonate on the shores of our service for generations. I have many fond memories of Ted. I will cherish them until we meet again. God Bless you and your family, my friend and mentor. ATW! Christopher A. Lindberg

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