(Roy Knight wrote in May 2018)
In 1971, my mother had pretty much had it with me. I was a little out of control, not doing well in school, and pretty much a pain in the butt. She was able to find a way to send my young tail to St. John’s so I could receive the discipline I desperately needed. From the very moment I got there, that’s what I got. A lot. And it was just what I needed. I thank God daily that my mother loved me so much that she sent me away. I came back a different person. I am so thankful for the faculty, staff, and other cadets of St. John’s, and I will be till the day I take the dirt nap. As SJMS celebrates another Commencement this weekend, I celebrate with them from afar and remember what a great institution it is. Incidentally, the “C” student who arrived at St. John’s graduated as a member of the National Honor Society, with two nominations to the Air Force Academy.
(in Feb. 2024 he wrote) Five years ago today, we learned that after 131 years of turning boys into men, St. John’s Military School was closing. This was indeed a black day. Our country has never needed institutions like St. John’s more. I am so thankful for the St. John’s Military School Historical Museum and the wonderful team that keeps the memories and legacy of those great staff, teachers, and cadets alive. Kent Tretheway, Terry Plumberg, Mike Wagner and so many others who have worked so hard to build and support this effort will forever have a special place in our hearts.
Thank you so much. St. John’s Forever!
—Roy A. Knight III 1974