SJMS - Key Persons


Al Palmer

Attended SJMS 1952 - 1959; BS degree from Widener University and M Ed from West Chester State University. Secondary and collegiate teacher of Earth and related sciences. Author of numerous scientific journal articles and reviews. Lecturer at local, state and national conventions of science teachers.

Alan Brightman

Graduate of Kansas University. Associate Professor and Chief of Ophthalmology, College of Veterinary medicine, University of Illinois. Author of 50 scientific articles and book chapters in the field of comparative ophthalmology. Lieutenant Colonel, USAR, Airborne, Ranger, Special Forces

Alan Cub Clem

Mr. Clem attended St. John's Military School for ten years. In 1946 he was the Battalion Commander. Mr. Clem graduated form the University of Nebraska He received his PhD from American University in 1960. He was the head of the Political Science Department at the University of South Dakota. Mr. Clem is the author of many scholarly articles and monographs and books.

Albert J. Ransom

Mr. Ransom attended St. John's Military School from 1951 - 1956. He was the Battalion Commander of the Class of '56. Mr. Ransom attended the University of Colorado on a football scholarship. Mr. Ransom enlisted in 1958 with the United States Marine Corps and flew over 4,000 jet hours; 400 combat missions; and received the Distinguished Flying Cross and Bronze Star

Bill Meidell

While attending SJMS, Bill lettered in all three sports; baseball, football and basketball along with being a member of the Crack Squad. After graduation, Bill attended Wichita State University then traveled for 40 years in sales. Bill retired from the insurance business and has thoroughly enjoyed his retirement. Bill has been very active the last 38 yrs. in 12 step work with still practicing alcoholics in his home group of Group #1 in Kansas City, Mo. Entered Colorado State University after his service to country, and graduated with a Poultry Agriculture degree.

Charles Marcus

Distinguished military graduate, from University of Colorado; U.S. Army Special Forces 1970-74. U S Army Reserve, served as Battalion S-3, Major. Executive Director of the Colorado Medical Society and owner of Marcus Motor Racing.

COL William Clark

COL(R) William (Bill) Clark served in the United States Army for a period of 30 years. During his tenure with the Army, Bill commanded at every level from platoon through Brigade, serving a total of 13 years overseas, which included operational deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, Kosovo, and Bosnia. As a Cavalry Squadron Commander, COL Clark deployed the first Stryker Brigade Cavalry Squadron into Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. Bill retired from the Army in 2014, culminating his military career as the Garrison Commander of Fort Riley, Kansas. COL Clark's awards include the Legion of Merit and two Bronze Stars.

D. Dale Browning

Mr. Browning has served in various capacities at St. John's since 1975. A 1955 graduate of the school, he went on to graduate from Kansas Wesleyan University in 1959 and attended graduate school at the University of Chicago from 1964 to 1966. He joined Continental Illinois National Bank and Trust Company in Chicago from 1964 until 1966 as a trainee in the Executive Management Training Program. In 1965, he joined the Colorado National Bank in Denver Colorado and was named CEO and President of the Bank in 1985, serving concurrently as Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of Colorado National Bancshares. He retired from the bank in 1992. Following graduation from SJMS, served as SJMS counselor, teacher and coach for nine years. Mr. Browning is a graduate of Kansas Wesleyan University. In November 1968, became President of Rocky Mountain Bankcard System, one of the largest credit card processors in the western United States. Mr. Browning served as President and CEO of the Colorado National Bank. He then founded Plus Systems, Inc in 1982, and negotiated the sale to Visa International in 1992. Mr. Browning has held numerous board positions including serving St. John's Military School, Central States Indemnity Company, Guaranty Bank & Trust and Frontier Airlines.

David Rhodes

David was a member of the SJMS football team, and was named the Most Valuable Player. He also completed the Spartan program.

Dean Hargrove

Graduated from Wichita State University. Attended UCLA Film School for graduate studies. Writer and/or producer of many television series, including COLUMBO, McCLOUD, NAME OF THE GAME, the BOB NEWHART SHOW, THE MAN FROM UNCLE, PERRY MASON MOVIES, MATLOCK, JAKE AND THE FATMAN, RETURN TO MAYBERRY.

Donna Vanier

Donna Vanier, the quiet friend to St. John's, has always led with a kind heart, and ready smile. Donna, along with the rest of the Vanier family, is well known for their generous support programs that benefit and support youth. Donna became officially involved with SJMS as the coordinator between the school staff and Warner Bros during the filming of "Up the Academy." that was filmed on campus. From that time on, she has worked endlessly serving on many campaign drives and as a member of the Board of Trustees. Donna and husband Jack have never turned away from hard work. Together they have met life challenges with dedication, and "doing the right thing." As the saying goes, "behind every successful man, is a successful woman." - This adage has never been truer for Jack and Donna.

E.P. Ripley

Attended St John's from 1922 - 1929. Attended Kansas University, Washburn College and obtained law degree from Boston University 1937; private law practice in New Mexico. Was attorney for New Mexico State Tax Commission and State Board of Education. New Mexico State Senator for two years.

Ed Lehman

Graduate of the University of Denver; Newspaperman and lawyer. Served as Deputy District Attorney for the City of Denver. Member of the Colorado Legislative 1954-1956. President and publisher of the daily newspapers in Longmont, Loveland and Canon City, Colorado. Motto of Lehman Communications Corporation; "To Create A Better World, Start In Your Own Community."

Eugene Ely

Graduated from University of Colorado with degree in Mechanical Engineering and Business Management. Worked with Ingersoll-Rand Company since graduation. Traveled in 102 countries and lived on four continents.

Francisco Gomez

Advisor to Columbian Coffee Federation, Bogota, Columbia. Sales and Marketing Director, American Products Corporation.

Fred Pate

Fred Pate attended SJMS from 1939-1942 and was extremely proud when made Cadet Captain of The Corps. Fred was also the Crack Drill Squad Captain, football and Army Captain and Skirmisher Editor-in-Chief. Upon graduation he was awarded the Gordon Prize.

Fritz Schieb

Mr. Schoeb attended St. John's Military School from 1938 to 1946. Mr. Schoeb attended Wichita State University and then completed 20 years service in the Kansas National Guard. Mr. Schoeb worked for the Skelly Oil Company and Getty Oil Company for 29 years.

Gene Penny

Attended SJMS from 1940-1943. Enlisted in Navy V-5 Program; Served three years. Gene is very active in schools, city and the Methodist Church in Burlington, CO.

Ginny Conroy

Ginny was first introduced to SJMS when she brought her son here for school. From that moment on, Ginny was an avid supporter and recruiter. She considered every young man at SJMS her "son" and did everything in her power to make them feel at home. Ginny volunteered many hours. Helping the Parent Staff Organization, talking to perspective parents and answering their many concerns to giving tours and making the visitors feel right at home where her specialty. Ginny was never shy in helping others and being a friend to everyone. She was always eager to share the "St John's Story" to anyone that would listen. Her enthusiasm and warm smile was contagious. Ginny worked as a recruiter from her home in the Colorado area.

Hazel Fonck

Job Titles:
  • Faithful SJMS Employee
Hazel Fonck had a special fondness to SJMS long before her employment as the bursar. Hazel was born and raised on campus, and enjoyed the campus life until her retirement in 1980. She had over a 50 year relationship with SJMS. Hazel loved St John's and all it stood for. She took special care of all the boy's wants and needs while bursar. Hazel was particularly proud of being named Honorary Colonel in 1981. She and husband John attended as many events on campus as possible, and she took special pride in the Corps.

Herb Becker

Distinguished career in the Air Force. Developed Applejack's in Denver. One of the principals in developing Apple Village Shopping Center in Denver.

Hilliard Griffin

"Grif" graduated from SJMS in 1961 and Seattle University in 1968. Grif has chased adventure his entire life. His successful business ventures include construction, disaster relief, logistics, news media, real estate, search and rescue, security and wild land fire fighting. He is a member of the Civil Air Patrol in Albuquerque. His service as an international trade delegate involves efforts for Africa, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Cheboksary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Russia, the United Kingdom and the Urals. His extracurricular activities include academics, dancing, hiking, martial arts, sailing, skiing, skydiving and traveling.

Howard Haythorn

Battalion Commander of the Class of 1945. Served in the Military from 1951 - 1953. Well-known judge of horse shows and high school rodeos. President of the Haythorn Ranching Company, a family organization started in 1884.

J. Chuck Vaile

Chuck graduated from SJMS in 1985 as a Cadet Major with honors. He competed in football basketball and rifle team, flag detail, color guard, honor guard, cadet patrol and a six time Blue Beret. After graduation, he enlisted in the U S Army and was trained as a combat medic and operating room specialist. Chuck was permanently blinded in the line of duty. Chuck attended the Veteran's Administration Blind Rehab Center in order to learn as much as he could about succeeding in a new world. He attended the University of SW Louisiana and sustained a 3.75 gpa, was a columnist for the school newspaper and was inducted into the Pi Eta Sigma National Honor Society. From there he moved back to his home in Colorado and enrolled at the University of Denver. He sustained a 4.0 gpa, wrote for the school newspaper and led the fight to make the university accessible and inviting to the handicapped. He founded the Doberman Rescue in Colorado and has since lead a life in public service and volunteerism. In 13 years he has been personally responsible for the saving of nearly 1,000 animals lives and gives away his considerable services as an expert canine trainer and behaviorist to any who ask for it.

Jack McCandless

Jack earned his Boy Scout Eagle Badge as a member of the La Junta Troop known as the Koshares. As part of one badge requirement, Jack performed authentic Indian dances in costume researched and made by him. After graduation from SJMS in 1942, he entered the Navy and served three years. He was stationed in Idaho, Oklahoma, California & South Pacific. Served aboard the USS Chandeleur, a repair ship for seaplanes and began training as a pilot before being discharged. Entered Colorado State University after his service to country, and graduated with a Poultry Agriculture degree. Jack began working for SJMS as a teacher in the Junior School and later became Commandant of Rank and Discipline.

James Bannon

Served in U S Merchant Marine Cadet Corps WWII; U.S. Marine Corps Korean War. Graduate of Wichita State University and MA degree from University of Michigan; Medieval and Modern European History teacher and Department Chairman, San Diego Unified School District.

James R. Dennett

Colonel Dennett, U S Air Force, was a representative of the Government of the United States of America when documents were signed accepting the release of POW's held in North Vietnam in 1973.

Jeff Broome

Job Titles:
  • Class of 1971
Jeff graduated from Colorado State University with a BS in Psychology and Philosophy. He received his masters in Philosophy from Baylor and Ph.D. from the University of Colorado. Jeff has worked as a counselor, Treatment Director and chaplain for the Salvation Army before turning his sights at teaching in college. He currently is a philosophy and history professor at Arapahoe Community College in Colorado.

Jeff Guernsey

Job Titles:
  • Class of 1961
Due to his parents working at St. John's, Jeff became friends to many cadets. While growing up on the campus, Jeff knew each cadets name, and where they were from. He saw many changes at SJMS, but always felt the changes were for the best. Jeff is a Civil War reenactor for over 20 years. He also joined the Civil Air Patrol in 1966 and retired in 1986 as a Lt. Colonel. Jeff also holds an Extra Class Ham radio license and a 4th degree black belt in Taekwondo, and advanced rank in five other styles. His extracurricular activities include academics, dancing, hiking, martial arts, sailing, skiing, skydiving and traveling.

Jeff Schlesinger

Jefferson' father passed away when he was nine, and his mother started selling wares across the country to support him. Jefferson states, "SJMS taught me responsibility and when I graduated at age 16, I went out and got a job and have supported myself ever since." He went to work at J D Lee Flour Mill as a cereal chemist, relying on the lessons he learned at St. John's. Schlesinger said the best wheat had been coming to the mill in Enid, OK, so he went to Union Equity. Schlesinger designed the laboratory and oversaw its installation. He ran the lab until his retirement at age 65 in 1971. Jefferson is noted by being the oldest Old Boy, celebrating his 100th birthday on March 18, 2006.

John A. Wolfe

After serving as battalion Commander in 1985, John, "Andy" attended the University of Minnesota Duluth and Kansas University where he graduated with honors with a BS in Education, with a major in literature and language arts. Andy has worked for the School District of Superior, WI as an English teacher. He has started a drama program, directed plays, worked on steering committees and became the English Department Chairman. He has coached forensics, started a school newspaper and is a mentor of new teachers. He was honored by being chosen as "Inspirational Teacher of the Year."

John Houston

Attended Fairmount College, Wichita, KS. Served in the US Marine Corps during WWI. Served as Mayor of Newton, KS and elected a s US Congressman 1935 - 1943. Delegate to the Democratic National Convention from Kansas in 1944. Appointed to the National Labor Relations Board until his retirement.

John Rick Taylor

Founder and president of several successful oil and gas companies in Texas and the Southwest. Decorated veteran of two tours in Vietnam. State Director and National Coordinator for POW/MIA efforts of American Defense Foundation. Colonel, Confederate Air Force.

Kenny Hancock

Kenny recently retired after working for 31 years for Wilson & Company Engineers & Architects, a nationally recognized 500-person consulting engineering firm. During his tenure at Wilson & Company, Kenny served in a variety of management roles at the company, managing multiple operating divisions with staff in multiple offices across the United States from Missouri to California. He retired as Chairman of the Board, and Division Manager for Railroad and Energy Services and was a licensed professional engineer in 26 states and 2 Canadian provinces. Kenny earned a Bachelor Science Mechanical Engineering (BSME) from Kansas State University. Prior to returning to school to get his engineering degree, he also previously worked as a licensed plumber/pipefitter. Kenny played baseball and ran track in college. Kenny has been a youth baseball and fastpitch softball coach for 30+ years, and provides pitching lessons for girls ranging in ages from 10 yrs to college age. He was a Rule 10 (non-faculty) softball coach at Salina South High School for 20 years. He is married to Melanie, and has a step-daughter and step-son, and an 8-yr old granddaughter and 5-yr old grandson. Hobbies include hunting, fishing, coaching, working out, and working in his shop restoring muscle cars.

KSRA Renowned

Job Titles:
  • Member of the Shooting Sports

Larry Britegam

Attended St. John's as a junior school cadet from September 1967 through May 1969. Received a BS degree from Marymount College, Salina. Chairman of two successful fund drives for Lyman Middle School and Stevens Center. Ties to SJMS date back to his great grandfather who in 1910, built the first hospital building in Salina onthe grounds of St. John's. The hospital was named St. Barnabas. It later became a dorm, where Mize Hall currently is located. Chairman of the St. John's Board of Trustees. Larry & his wife are known throughout the community for their fabulous fund raising dinners.

Larry Rice

Received a BA and MA from Kansas University. City manager in four cities over 20 years. Currently City Manager of Lakewood Colorado.

Louis Fulton

Attended Rice Institute on an athletic scholarship and on to the University of Houston. Served in the United States Air Force 1947 - 1950 as a Control Tower Operator. Vice President of Sales for the Workload, Inc. with offices in Miami, Dallas, Jacksonville, Mobile, San Francisco and New Orleans.

Louis Wyman

Wyman received the Gordon Prize while attending SJMS, which was a highlight of his time at SJMS. Lou served in the Korean War, and attended Colorado State University before having to help his father on the ranch. They raised elk, and even organized shipping of the elk to Korea. Lou turned the ranch into an 8500 square foot living history, non-profit museum. Wyman's dream is not just to have old items sitting around for people to look at; he wants to bring history to life by having machines that operate.

Lyman Linger

Attended St John's four years. Battalion Commander of the class of 1926 Colorado rancher, major benefactor of SJMS.

Major Raymond Joseph Nunweiler III

Job Titles:
  • Command Sergeant
Command Sergeant Major Raymond Joseph Nunweiler III joined the St. John's Family in 2017. He obtained Eagle Scout in 1983. He joined the United States Army in 1986 and was selected as the Honor Graduate of Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training.

Mark Richards

Mark graduated in 1993, the 105th Corps of Cadets and was the Battalion Executive Officer his senior year. He was involved in nearly every extracurricular activity SJMS offered. His most significant award is the Gordon Prize. Mark graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in Business Management. Upon graduation he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant through the Army ROTC program. Mark was selected to the Army's Aviation branch and was trained to fly the UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter. He was deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. His decorations include Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, three Air Medals and the Combat Action Badge. He is jumpmaster qualified, attended Pathfinder School, SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape) school, and is a senior rated Aviator. He received his Masters degree in Social Organization Psychology from Columbia and is currently an advisor and coach (TAC) Officer to the cadets at West Point.

Mr. Wayne W. Grigsby Jr.

Job Titles:
  • Academic Dean
  • Dean of Academics
Mr. Wayne W. Grigsby Jr., is the Dean of Academics at St. Johns Military School. Most recently he served over 33 years in the Army culminating as a Major General, Commanding the First Infantry Division. Prior to becoming the Dean, he taught History and Homeland Security at Georgia Military College. He graduated from Salisbury State University, earning his Master's Degrees in Military Arts and Science from the School of Advanced Military Studies and in National Security Strategy from the National Defense University. He is married to Mrs. Kristina Grigsby and has 7 children and 3 grandchildren. His hobbies are Fitness, Golf, Fishing, Hunting, most importantly being a Husband, Father, and Grandfather and building leaders every day.

Ms. Ginger Wooten - VP

Job Titles:
  • Vice President
Ginger Wooten is the Vice President with primary responsibilities in the areas of Admissions, Advancement, and Marketing. The 2018- 2019 school year marks Mrs. Wooten's twentieth year at SJMS. During her tenure, she has also served in the positions of Academic Counselor, Director of Admissions, and Academic Dean.

Nathan E. Fox

CO. He served in the US Army; Special Forces Unit. Retired from the Colorado Iron and Fuel Corporation as Asst. Superintendent. Vice President and Director of Operations for Goodwill Industries of Pueblo. Job Placement for mentally and physically impaired teenagers; Funeral Director for Pueblo Funeral Homes; and Instructor for the American Driving Academy.

Orin Seybert

Orin Seybert attended SJMS for two years. Soon after graduation, Orin who was just 18, purchased his first plane, a tiny two seat Taylorcraft in 1958 he got his commercial flying certification and founded his company, a one-man operation called Peninsula Airways. Having one of the few planes in the area, Orin began using it to fly sick and injured people to the hospital. Pen Air is currently the largest regional airline in Alaska, serving SW Alaska, the Aleutians and Pribilof Islands. The airline has provided millions of flight miles to SW residents, business travelers and thousand of fishermen. PenAir has generated $60 million in sales, employs 450 and is 80% owned by the Seybert family. The company attributes its success in its commitment to safety, flexibility and the support and loyalty of lifelong customers living and working the Bristol Bay region.

Pete Holmes

Senior Vice President and Trust Officer of Home Bank & Trust, Eureka KS. Retired from the bank after 50 years of service. Served military time in the South Pacific.

Ralph Bliss

Mr. Bliss attended St. John's Military School from 1943 to 1946. He was the Battalion Commander in 1945. After attending SJMS, Mr. Bliss joined the army where he retired as Lt. Colonel. 1968 - 1984 Mr. Bliss was owner/President of two companies involved in photovoltaic systems and devices; international trading and shipping business.

Raul Olivia

Graduated from the University of Southwestern Louisiana. Majored in Economics and Finance. President of Technoconcret C.A., a family business.

Rev. Peter Francis

Ordained priest in Christ Episcopal Cathedral, Salina, 1944. Directors of the Salina unit of St. Francis Boys' Homes from 1948 - 1950 and the Ellsworth unit from 1952 - 1965. Opened Lake Placid New York unit of the Homes in 1965 and served there until retirement in 1983.

Rev. William Salmon

Methodist Pastor/ European Staff of the Institute of Cultural Affairs. Global Churchman and theosopher; rural and urban ministries. The servant of God and a seeker after the Christian life. Dedicated to the ministry of developing the ‘human factor' in global development. A running enthusiast.

Richard Retrum

Richard spent two years in the US Army with the 3rd Battalion 6th Infantry Division of the Berlin Brigade, where he earned a spot on the Berlin Bears football team. The team traveled all over Europe, playing other Army and Air Force teams. During that time, the team took the Com Z Championship trophy, which was the Army's "Super Bowl" Award. In addition, he provided ceremonial guard duty at Spandau Prison where the only inmate was the former Deputy Fuhrer of Nazi Germany, Rudolf Hess.

Rob Exline

Graduated from Kansas State University with degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Business Administration. He joined Exline, Inc. in the spring of 1991 and became President/CEO and owner of the company in February 1994. Exline, Inc. is a 5th generation family owned business, which was founded in 1872. Exline repairs and services machinery for the gas compression, power generation, industrial manufacturing, and plastics and rubber compounding industries. Headquartered in Salina, Kansas, with an additional repair and rebuild facility in Odessa, Texas. Exline, Inc. employs over 200 machinists, mechanics, and technicians who specialize in our customer's repair and manufacturing needs. Prior to joining Exline, Inc. his professional experience was working in the construction industry in several capacities including Sales Engineer, Manager of Business Development, and General Manager. He is a member of the Advisory Board to UMB National Bank of America, a director for the Salina Surgical Center, Board of Trustees of St. John's Military School and Board of Trustees of the Salina First Presbyterian Church. He is happily married to Kelli and has two children, Will (27) and Carolyn (25). He enjoys mountain biking, golf, snow skiing, camping, and fishing.

Robert Crooks

Attended SJMS 1921 - 1928, Battalion Commander. Past president of San Diego Board of Realtors; owner and operator of Realty Company and honorary director of the California Association of Realtors.

Robert Guthrey

Mr. Guthrie attended St. John's Military School 1944 through 1946. Mr. Guthrie attended Adams State College and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Mr. Guthrie served with the 40th Infantry Division in Korea. After serving his country, he became manager of EG & G, a radar development company.

Robert Houston

Mr. Houston is a graduate of St. John's Military School class of 1943. Mr. Houston attended the University of Southern California and graduated from Santa Ana College. Mr. Houston joined the United States Marine Corps and served his country during WWII and the Korean War. He retired as a senior engineer from Douglas Aircraft Company, Long Beach, California

Robert Miller

Robert Miller attended St. John's from 1938 - 1947. He was awarded the Commandant's Medal in 1943 and 1946, and was the first cadet awarded a Major's rank. After graduation, Robert attended Brown Mackie College and joined the Air Force. He worked for United Airlines as an aircraft inspector and Braniff Airlines as a technical representative. His early retirement years found him as a mediator in Hawaii and Washington State. Robert (Bob) Miller is a proud native of Salina, Kansas. He is President/Owner of Busboom and Rauh Construction Company having been with the firm for 38-years. The company, founded in 1919, has served the regional general construction and construction management markets with emphasis on Health Care, Private Commercial, Manufacturing and Food Production facilities. In addition, he co-operates a production agriculture operation focused on Cow-Calf and Hay production at Tescott, Kansas. Bob is a graduate of The University of Kansas with a B.S. degree in Business Administration and holds a Master Builder designation from the University of Iowa. Married to wife, Linda, for 37-years, they have 2-sons, Lance and John, and a daughter, Melanie.

Robert Odell

Joined the Winfield Sheriff's Office, Cowley County Kansas in 1966. Promoted to under sheriff in 1974 and elected as Sheriff since 1985. Currently spearheading a new jail facility.

Robert S. Erb

Attended St. John's Military School from 1955 to 1964. Graduate of the U S Naval Academy, attended Naval Postgraduate School, pilot training and aviation maintenance billets and the Navy Space Program and was a Commander, U. S. Navy, U. S. Atlantic Fleet, Avionics/Weapons Officer in Norfolk, VA. in 1983.

Robert Snyder

Graduated from Kansas State University in 1950. Lieutenant Colonel, USAF, retired in 1976. Placement Consultant, Management Recruiters. Volunteer work included: Board of Director multi county United Way campaigns, Masonic organizations, U S Power Squadron, Kiwanis.

Roger Bigler

Battalion Commander 1955. Graduate of University of Colorado; BS Mechanical Engineering, MBA Corporate Finance. Co-Founder Grubb & Ellis National Real Estate Firm and President of ICD Company/Commercial Office Developers. Currently owns a resort in the Philippines.

SSG George Norton

"While attending SJMS, I learned I had to earn good grades, promotions, the awards on my uniform and a place in the school's history. I earned everything I worked for however there were many helping hands along the way." Attending SJMS helped him realize he would be a good soldier and a talented marksman, so he enlisted in the US Army and became a competitive shooter. Some of his accomplishments: NRA Men's 3 Position National Champion; KSRA Renowned Member of the Shooting Sports; Supported Operation Enduring Freedom as primary marksmanship instructor for the Afghan National Army; USAMU NCO of the Year 2011 and USA National Shooting Team member.

Thomas Dickson

Attended St. John's Military from 1964 - 1967. Served in the U. S. Navy, UDT and Seal Team One. Artist and sculptor, listed in American Artists of Renown and Contemporary Western Artists. Member of the Allied Artists of America, Inc.

Tim Soule

Job Titles:
  • Class of 1966
Tim is a graduate of SJMS in 1966. After graduation, Tim enrolled and graduated from Westridge State College in Colorado. His major was Political Science. Tim joined the Army for two years and served in Germany. Tim joined Union Power Construction Company in 1972 which his family owned and became Vice President in 1975. The company installs transmission lines and sub stations over the mountains. Union Power Construction Company was a Founding Member of Quanta Services, Inc. a publicly traded NYSE company founded in 1998. Tim was a Founding Member of the Board of Directors of Quanta Services from 1998 to 2000. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of St. John's Military School, Salina, Kansas. A member of the Board of Trustees for the joint NECA/IBEW Line Construction Benefit Fund. He was Chairman of the Board of Republic National Bank from 1987 to 1993. He is currently President and a member of the Board of Directors for the Soule Family Foundation. In the 1980's his family became part owner in a local bank, Community First. He served on the Board of Directors Tim and his wife Suzan reside in Castle Rock, CO.

Tom Keil

The six years at SJMS were highlighted with numerous opportunities to grow as a leader, (Battalion S3), an above average student and a multi sport varsity athlete. He feels certain he would not have accomplished that elsewhere. Tom graduated from Wichita State University with a degree in Criminal justice, and a Masters in Human Resource Management from Webster University. Tom is currently branch manager of a Human Resource Company, specializing in temporary staffing, professional placement, HR consulting, training and development and pre-employment testing and evaluation. He began a professional career in direct service and administration and specialized in child welfare and residential programs serving run-a-ways, homeless and troubled youth.

Tom P. Wilson

BS degree in Public Administration. 19 year career as a police officer, firefighter and Fire Chief. During that tenure, awarded the Medal of Valor for actions during an ambush shooting in 1970. Member of the Coast Guard Reserve. Was assigned to write and implement a Terrorism Response Plan for the 12th Coast Guard District and the San Francisco Captain of the Port.

Virgil Lefty Loy

Job Titles:
  • Instructor
Virgil "Lefty" Loy joined the staff of SJMS in 1952 and retired after 36 years in 1988. "Lefty" taught Social Science. Through those years he assisted in coaching several sports and was instrumental in beginning the Physical Fitness program. "Lefty" served his country (1943 - 1946) by joining the Marine Corps and was assigned with the defense units of New Guinea and action at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, Peleliu, and Okinawa and was with the Occupation Forces in China. "Lefty" did his graduate work in Social Science at Emporia, KS and received his Master's Degree in May, 1964. "Lefty" authored "St. John's Military School…A History, which covered SJMS first 99 years. This book has been instrumental in remembering the past. "For anyone ever associated with St. John's, this book will be a fascinating and informative look at what time has wrought."

Walter York

Attended St John's Military School for eleven years, longest tenure of any Cadet in its history. Graduate of Kansas Wesleyan University. Retired US Air Force Chief.

Wendy Stein

Job Titles:
  • Teacher
Wendy Stein is the sound of music at SJMS. In 1984 she joined the SJMS staff, and became an extraordinarily passionate and caring teacher who instructed hundreds of students in many different musical instruments. She embraces the talents and qualities of each student musician and helps them to find their path to success. Wendy is very generous in giving of her time to the Cadets. She places the Cadets above everything else, always encouraging them to give their best. She has been a member of the Salina Symphony for over 20 years and is currently the editor of the Skirmisher and the Yearbook. Wendy is a very special person who is loved by countless Cadets.

William Bill Ladd

Served in the U S Marine Corps. President of the Silver Dollar Saloon and Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada.

William E. "Trey" Mowery

Job Titles:
  • Market President of Central National Bank
Trey is currently the Market President of Central National Bank in Salina, KS, having served in that capacity for over 4 years. Prior to joining Central National Bank, Trey was a Senior Vice President and Salina Market Senior Lender for Sunflower Bank. Trey has been in the banking business for over 30 years and in addition to Salina, has worked for banks in Denver, Colorado and Cheyenne, Wyoming. Trey has served on numerous Boards in Salina including the Salina Chamber of Commerce, Salina Family YMCA, Salina Community Theatre, and Salina Economic Development Corporation.

William J.L. Bunting

1SG William J L Bunting exemplifies the highest ideals and standards of the faculty and staff at SJMS. A combat veteran of Korea and Vietnam, Bunting retired from the Army after 20 years and began his second career at SJMS. During his 22 year tenure, he served as an ROTC Instructor, TAC Officer, Crack Squad Sponsor and Rifle Team Sponsor. He was also Administrative Asst to commandant LTC Paul H Kellogg. His work ethic leadership and exceptional moral and ethical character fostered a strong loyalty among those with whom he worked. In addition to this, he also participated in countless senior trips, band trips, ski trips, rifle team trips and other activities as needed. For many years he has dressed up in the uniform and whiskers of the Mule-Skinner for school functions.