The West Point Glee Club recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to perform in “A Celebration of Character and Courage,” a program commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War at the National Cathedral. The Glee Club sang patriotic selections alongside the West Point Alumni Glee Club to honor those who served in the Vietnam War. 

Among the West Point Alumni Glee Club members performing were 12 Vietnam veterans including GEN (R) John Shaud ’56, USAF, LTG (R) Hank Hatch ’57, BG (R) Gerry Galloway ’57, MG (R) Alan Salisbury ’58, LTC (R) Terry Ryan ’65, LTC (R) Jim Ferguson ’65, COL (R) Mo Faber ’66, COL (R) Mike Kush ’67, Dr. Ralph Tilden ’68, COL (R) K.C. Brown ’69, Mr. Mike Steele ’69 and COL (R) Chip Leonard ’70. 

The service included remarks from the 33rd Chief of Staff of the Army, GEN (R) Dennis Reimer ’62, a Distinguished Graduate Award recipient, and Colleen Shine, an advocate for national POW/MIA accountability. Cadets then attended a reception hosted by the Gary Sinise Foundation, where they interacted with other Vietnam veterans and veteran assistance organizations. 

The next day, cadets met with a National Park Service volunteer to learn about the design and significance of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. They sang “Mansions of the Lord” in front of the monument in tribute to those fallen, alongside Gold Star family members. 

The West Point Glee Club is one of the 120 athletic, recreational, academic, religious, hobby, and diversity clubs at West Point made possible by donors supporting the Margin of Excellence.