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Catalog Number
2022.30.23a-c
Description
Three-page valedictorian speech written and delivered by Herbert Chapman to his Holland High classmates in June 1937.
History
Herbert E. Chapman was born July 15, 1919 in Holland MI. to Rexford and Wealthia Chapman. He graduated from Holland High in 1937 where he was class valedictorian.

In June of 1941 Herbert graduated from Michigan State College ROTC, He became survey officer of the 160th field artillery before his promotion to intelligence officer at artillery headquarters in Texas in 1942.

Herbert passed away unexpectedly on April 11, 1943 in Lynchburg, Virginia when the military plane he was riding in crashed. The plane took off from a liaison field near Camp Pickett, VA to observe field artillery placements.

Herbert's funeral was the first military funeral of WW2 held in Holland, MI (Holland Sentinel front page, 4-14-1943). He was buried in Pilgrim Home Cemetery, Holland, MI.
Gift of
Donna Timmer