Retired Headmaster Bob Fine honored with gift from Class of 1966 South

Doug Pearson and Corky Newcombe, class agents for the Class of 1966 South, came to campus last week and presented a special gift to honor former Headmaster Robert J. Fine, Jr.’s 30 years of service to the Academy. The presentation of this gift was heartfelt and there was not a dry eye in the room. Pearson read the following letter aloud.

“It is with great pleasure that the Class of 1966, South Campus, present to you this Limited Edition print (“A Louisiana Welcome”) of the U.S.S. Hartford, the decks from which Admiral David G. Farragut directed the Union Fleet into the Mississippi River to join with General U.S. Grant for the Battle of Vicksburg.  The Admiral battled fixed fortifications as well as Confederate GunBoats to make this passage across the mudflats with the loss of only one ship.

Much like the Admiral you have battled similar fortifications and assaults on our own Flagship, Admiral Farragut Academy.  In doing so, you have helped to establish and ensure the heritage and continued placement of our vessel among the premier college preparatory institutions.  Your tactics and adjustments to the demands of success are greatly appreciated and admired by your faculty, board of directors, board of trustees and staff, and alumni from far and wide.

As you view “A Louisiana Welcome” we know you’ll recognize the struggle and strife that was endured during those days of the Civil War.  We also know that you will, as do we, be aware that the battle was not easy but the reward and success were long enduring.  Please know that your work, battles, and views of the future have also been rewarding and successful.   Those efforts will be long enduring and have helped our Admiral Farragut Academy continue well into the future.

Having done so we, The Class of 1966 South, proudly present to you this remembrance of the U.S.S. Hartford and its fleet to commemorate your vision and “A Job Well Done” for all those years of performance above and beyond the call of duty as “Our” Headmaster.”