The graduation week ceremonies at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., highlighted the institution’s rich history and tradition, commemorating alumni who have made significant contributions in the defense of the nation. This year’s events included the Medal of Honor Dedication ceremony, honoring retired Col. Ralph Puckett Jr., a Class of 1949 graduate, who passed away on April 8, 2024. Puckett, who served as the Honorary Colonel of the 75th Ranger Regiment, had his Medal of Honor donated by his family to the academy. The medal will be displayed at the Arvin Cadet Physical Development Center over the next academic year.
Puckett earned his Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery during the Korean War. On November 25-26, 1950, as a first lieutenant in the 8th Army Ranger Company, he exposed himself to enemy machine gun fire, allowing his unit to identify enemy positions and direct artillery fire effectively. Despite being wounded several times, his actions were pivotal in his unit’s success. He later earned a second Distinguished Service Cross for his actions in Vietnam.
The Alumni Wreath Laying Ceremony followed, with Roger Conover from the Class of 1948 and Bob Springer from the Class of 1949 placing a wreath at the statue of Sylvanus Thayer, the “Father of the U.S. Military Academy.” The ceremony was attended by various alumni, including members of the Classes of 1949, 1954, and 1969.
The day also featured the Corps of Cadets Alumni Review and the presentation of the West Point Association of Graduates’ Distinguished Graduate Awards. This year, six distinguished graduates were honored:
1. Retired Gen. Wesley K. Clark, Class of 1966
2. Retired Gen. Jim C. McConville, Class of 1981
3. Retired Lt. Gen. Thomas P. Bostick, Class of 1978
4. Retired Lt. Gen. Karl W. Eikenberry, Class of 1973
5. Retired Maj. Pat Locke, Class of 1980
6. Kathleen S. Hildreth, Class of 1983
Pat Locke’s recognition was particularly notable. She is a member of the historic Class of 1980, the first to include women, and she was the first African American woman to graduate from West Point. Locke’s career began as an enlisted soldier before being recommended to West Point, where she excelled despite significant challenges. She served in multiple combat arms assignments as an Air Defense Artillery officer before retiring due to a training accident.
Post-retirement, Locke has been instrumental in admissions for West Point, and she created the West Point Leadership Ethics and Diversity in STEM (LEADS) program, impacting over 27,000 students. Her journey from a modest upbringing in Detroit to a distinguished military career and influential post-service work highlights her resilience and dedication.
Locke’s award ceremony was a poignant moment shared with her family and ten female classmates from the Class of 1980. Her story is an inspiration, emphasizing perseverance, potential, and the importance of leadership and support from peers. Locke’s message to women, especially those from minority backgrounds, is one of hope and encouragement, reinforcing that with grit and resilience, they can achieve great things despite their circumstances.
The alumni ceremonies at West Point serve as a testament to the enduring legacy and evolving inclusivity of the academy, celebrating both historic and contemporary achievements of its graduates.
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