In 1957 Sputnik 1 was launched into space and the ‘space race’ was on. As a young boy I will never forget how exciting it was to see an orbiting satellite. My career path was set .... electronics and communication technology was the field I wanted to pursue.
While in the 8th grade, I was to make a high school choice. Would I attend an average neighborhood high school or Benson? For me the choice was clear ... Benson was the only school that offered fantastic technical classes that could help set my career choice direction ... communications technology.
In 1960 I entered BPS in ‘pre-engineering’ and followed the radio/communications route. My instuctors, not only in my major, but throughout the school were some of the finest teachers I have ever experienced. Mr. Grant stands out as a major instructor that influenced me to pursue my dreams .... electronics and all that it could bring me. I will never forget how Grant not only influenced his current students, but many students who graduated and returned to be inspired by this man. Mr. Grant was one of those teachers you never forgot. He truly was inspirational.
Benson instilled in me a desire for more education after high school. I was successful at the undergraduate and graduate levels of college and received both a B.S. and M.S. Benson was the foundation and the inspiration of my academic achievement. The ‘well rounded’ education plus the technical programs offered while at Benson allowed me to enter the aerospace program as an engineer and work for such giants as Lockheed and Hughes Aircraft.
Along the way I realized that Benson taught me more than just technical subjects. The student and teacher relationships, the social clubs(Optimist)and the dress and grooming standards all added up to a character building experience for life. This ‘structure’ gave me the courage and backbone to fulfill a 35 year career in the U.S. Army ... beginning with a tour in Viet Nam and ending in 2005 as a chaplain holding the rank of Colonel. Benson was the foundation for my life’s success. To this I will always be grateful.
Larry(class of 64)
