Arvid Emerson West

West Point, 1956

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Bill Atkinson on February 11, 2019:

I had the privilege of serving as one of BG West's aides-de-camp when he was the Assistant Division Command (Support) for the 25th Infantry Division. (I owned bragging rights for being the first of his aides there). I was warned, before he showed up in Hawaii, that his nickname was "Arvid the Awful." And, although he got a kick out of the nickname (and the Viking statues he received as farewell gifts), nothing could be further from describing the kind of person and Soldier he was. I cannot adequately express how rewarding and enjoyable it was to work for him. I had the opportunity to watch him in action, up close and personal, every duty day; and it was a blast. I learned so much from BG West and I can honestly say there was never a dull moment --- in the office or in the field, on duty or off duty. He was high energy and tons of enthusiasm. (I would always say he was like a "kid in a candy shop.") He loved being with Soldiers and it showed in everything that he did. Every decision he made and action he took were for the purpose of taking care of Soldiers and their Families and ensuring the Tropic Lightning Division was mission-ready. He was a terrific role model and mentor for me, sometimes teaching me through counselling sessions and, most of the time, by just living the mantra of Duty, Honor, Country. BG West was a consummate Soldier, leader, warrior, teacher, friend, and family man ... and a great representative of the Army, West Point, and USMA 1956. I am glad that I had the pleasure and privilege of serving under his leadership and thankful for the lasting impact he has had on my life.

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