Amazing Event . . .

I got a telephone call from Dr. Randy Gurie, the person assigned by the LSU Chancellor's office to be the faculty advisor to the Cadets of the Ole War Skule. LSU until 1956 was a military school much like its rival Texas A & M University. In fact both schools rival each in the number of officers produced in WW-II. Even in my day we had a Corps of Cadets that exceeded 5,000 strong.

At any rate the Cadets of the Ole War Skule has a Hall of Honor for its distinguished former LSU cadets. One has to be nominated and then selected for this honor. I took it upon myself to nominate Farhnam Libby Morrison, my Uncle Ham. He was not selected.

As a result I withdrew as member of the Cadets of the Ole War Skule. I have seen the other members of the Hall of Honor, read their Biographical notes and while certanly good and deserving people they certainly no more heroic nor valorous than Uncle Ham.

He had landed at Normandy on DDay, June 6, 1945 and fought his way across France, Belgium (the Battle of the Bulge), Luxembourg, and into Germany itself. He was one of Patton's troops.

He landed as a 2nd Lt and finished on VE day as Company Commander and the rank of Captain. Along the way he picked up two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars and a Silver Star. He was highly decorated officer. He was also awarded the Combat Infantryman's Badge.

Later in the early 1950s he help reorganize the Louisiana National Guard. He was activated during the Berlin Crisis and was stationed at Fort Polk.

In time he grew in grade and statue in the LA National Guard. He retired as the Adjutant General's Chief of Staff at Jackson Barracks in New Orleans. He moved on the be the State of Louisiana Civilian Defense Director. Interestingly, in that position he was the Louisiana's number two State Policeman. He was the chief Deputy, carried a badge but I don't think he ever participated in any police things.

Ham retired as a full Colonel. Unfortunately, he died under going dialysis. He went into shock on the dialysis table and never recovered. He is interred in St Mary's of False River Mausoleum along with his beloved wife, Bobbe.

The long over due call I got was from LSU saying that Uncle Ham had been re-evaluated and selected for the Hall of Honor. He will be inducted November 6, 2010 at Parade Grounds, the same parade grounds I marched over many times. Later he will be honored along with this fellow inductees at the half time at the football game.

I owe a debt of thanks to Levy Dabadie, Brigadier General (RET) and member of the Cadets of the Ole War Skule and the advisor, Dr. Randy Gurie.