One LSU memory stands out like no other.  In the fall of 1968, I attended my grandfather’s 50th reunion of the Cadets of the Ole War Skule.  My grandfather, Joel Lafayette Fletcher, was a 1918 graduate of LSU.  He lived in the Pentagon Barracks on the old campus near downtown Baton Rouge.

 

The former cadets were assembled in the LSU Union for a luncheon.  There was a roll call with each cadet standing and speaking briefly on their life for the past fifty years.  Many were articulate and accomplished in the fields of medicine, law, banking, agriculture, and engineering.

 

I was curious to hear what my grandfather would say since he was much honored in the field of education, but also very humble.  When his name was called, he did not speak of himself.  Suddenly and without warning he announced, “I would like to introduce my grandson, Paul Nevels, from Houston, Texas.  He is a freshman at LSU.”

 

I was in a momentary state of shock as he motioned for me to rise.  Once standing, a few of the old soldiers started cheering and then the room filled with applause.  Since then, I have been Forever LSU!

 

–Paul Nevels ‘72