Marvin Alvis Jeffcoat

West Point, 1965

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Bob Gates on December 25, 2009:

Hey old son, My apologies for missing our 12-12 date. Have been a bit preoccupied these past few weeks with pesky classmates regarding our 45th Reunion. I'm sure you would understand that. My thoughts and admiration have always have been with you since before and after your plane crashed outside of Gander on 12-12-85. No survivors. I can't help but think what a total loss the army suffered. And what a total loss I had experienced personally. I lost the one person who could help me control my temper, and who could offer cogent advice. You were the quintessential military officer, bound for glory, as they say. You would have been a "star man", as the military understands the concept, not necessarily as West Point defines it. :) We'll just try to forget Yearling math. But no one should be allowed to forget you were the Battalion Commander of one of the finest light infantry battalions in this man's army. I love you to this day. I admire and respect you to this day. You were my friend, and I shall miss you always. How do you say something like "kindest regards" to someone who's no longer with us? Let's leave it at: Love you man, keep on truckin'. And somehow I know you're doing just that. Bob

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