We encourage letters related to issues discussed in Aggie Panorama and issues that relate to university news or policies. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. Mail, fax, (505-646-2099) or e-mail (rpopp@nmsu.edu) letters to the editor.

After spending much of 1995 and 1996 in Singapore and other parts of Southeast Asia, the project I was working on was completed, and my wife, Pat (Harwell) Bonner, ex-'54, and I have relocated in San Diego, California. Our time in Southeast Asia was a great experience. After working in the engineering field for 45 years, I have started a progressive effort toward retirement. I am still working part time consulting for various companies. Pat and I are playing golf and enjoying other activities in this area.

We would appreciate hearing from Aggies that were on campus in the late '40s and early '50s.

Bill Bonner, '52

12656 Camino Emparrado

San Diego, Calif. 92128

phone: (619) 618-1223

fax: (619) 674-4837

e-mail: WCBonner@aol.com

Bill, thanks for priming the pump for news from graduates of your era. Aggie Panorama encourages all alumni to keep in touch through the newsletter.

Read on for correspondence from Frank E. Garrett, '48, who refers to a story and photo in the June Panorama about a $20,000 scholarship endowment for 4-H students established by friends of the late Vernon Hall.

But wasn't it really only yesterday?

When we all first started in what was then NM A&M, Vernon Hall was in a room directly across from the room that I shared with Bill Stilley, in the old freshman dorm. I can add little to the words of praise spoken by his friends at the endowment luncheon. He truly was a young man of "impeccable honor," and I too had cause to wonder "why did you take Vernon?"

The George Jackson pictured has to be the one who ended World War II as the most decorated soldier in the Rainbow Division, a division that gained fame under the command of Gen. Douglas MacArthur. Grant Harper was not mentioned. The story told after we all returned from the war was that Vernon went out on a patrol and did not return. The next day, Grant Harper, '47, went on patrol and recovered Vernon's body.

I didn't realize that George Jackson (in photo) lives approximately 60 miles from where I have lived for the past 40 years. Time does heal, and though I was pleased to learn that Vernon will be remembered through a scholarship, I was saddened to be reminded again of what we all lost.

Frank E. Garrett, M.D., '48

Los Altos, Calif.

The NMSU logo, Pistole Pete images, megaphones and other Aggie objects - many donated by graduates - decorate the Alumni Living Room in Dove Hall. When you're on campus, be sure to stop by and take a look. Now, the Alumni Association is helping Corbett Center gather memorabilia for another campus room, a new student club on the east end of Corbett's lower level. The student club is a new place for daytime dining and nightime entertainment. "We want to literally cover the walls with New Mexico State memorabilia," says Andy Rhodes, corbett Center director. He also seeks objects depicting New Mexico's history and cultures. If you have items to donate to the club, from beanies to banners, contact the Alumni Association, (505) 646-3616.

As the Alumni Association plans to celebrate its centennial on May 24, 1998, Aggie Panorama is collecting stories from alumni. Do you have fond memories of favorite professors, fellow students, good times and campus traditions? Drop us a line!