"1LT Robson W. Wills" Topic

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My roommate at Rice and dearest friend. My son and grandson carry his name.

He wasn't a miniatures guy, but we played endless games of AH's BLTZKRIEG and watched spaghetti westerns. We did senior theses together on cavalry operations in Va in 1864; he did the Rebs and I did the Yanks, and we submitted a joint set of battle maps. Adviser was Frank Vandiver. Rob argued that Wade Hampton was a more effective cavalry corps commander than JEB Stuart, particularly in the conditions of 1864. He came close to destroying parts of the Union cavalry, at Travilian Station (Custer's first Last Stand) and then Wilson's southside raid. Although the Beefsteak Raid was very JEB-like, wasn't it?

To these who are cleansed of base Desire, Sorrow and Lust and Shame-
Gods for they knew the hearts of men, men for they stooped to Fame-
Borne on the breath that men call Death, my brother's spirit came.
He scarce had need to doff his pride or slough the dross of Earth -
E'en as he trod that day to God so walked he from his birth,
In simpleness and gentleness and honour and clean mirth.

🫡 🇺🇸

What well said memories and tribute to Lt. Wills.
May time heal your sorrows of his loss. As with others
now resting in peace, he too will not be forgotten this
Memorial Day and forever remembered.