How will I get the information I need?
The Association of Graduates keeps a file on each graduate, known as
the Cullum file. Some graduates have regularly updated their files, some
have not. Copies of this material can be requested for the purpose of writing
the memorial article by calling the Memorial Articles Editor at 800 232-4723,
ext. 1623, or e-mail memorials@aogusma.org. Other sources are classmates, colleagues, comrades-in-arms, and family members.
What about length?
Articles should be 800 – 1,000 words, or four double-spaced, typed, or
word-processed pages. Every article is subject to editing for length and
syntax. If an article is excessively long, it will be returned to the writer.
Exceptions are made in the rarest of circumstances (former superintendents
and commandants of cadets, chiefs of staff of the Army, Medal of Honor recipients, etc.). In these
cases, however, a 1,000-word memorial article may be supplemented by a
longer feature article at the front of the magazine. Or the feature article
may take the place of the memorial article and be referenced as such in
the Register of Graduates.
What about a photo?
Each article is published with a photo. Select a photo that represents
how the graduate would prefer to be remembered. If a suitable photo cannot
be found, the graduate’s Howitzer photo will be used. Remember,
photos must be in focus and in good condition. Do not send scans of photos.
All photos sent to the AOG will be returned upon publication. With approval of the next of kin, a second photo may be used with memorials that are less than the 800 – 1,000 word limit. Generally, photos should be contrasting (e.g., one candid or one of cadet days and one after graduation).
Is there a standard format?
No, but a typical memorial article presents the facts of the graduate’s life in chronological order. It includes life before West Point, an account
of significant achievements and activities as a cadet, assignments and
achievements in the military, marriage and children, retirement or separation from the military, important activities in civilian life, anecdotes and quotations, and an impressionistic section quite like a eulogy.
Can I write a memorial for myself?
All graduates are encouraged to do so and update it periodically. Writing
your own memorial article is a prudent way to help family and classmates
accomplish a difficult task while ensuring ASSEMBLY readers see the story
of your life as you want it told.
What about typefaces?
Because articles are now scanned into our computer, please do not submit
articles typed in all capital letters or in flowery typefaces easily misread by the scanner. Sending an IBM-compatible disc or as an attachment to an e-mail message is best.
How long will it be until the article is published?
Articles that are the appropriate length and submitted with approval
from the next of kin will be published in the order in which they are
received. Currently, it takes about 4 – 6 months.
Can I order extra copies?
Extra copies of the issue containing the Memorial Article can be ordered by check or credit card for $8 for the first and $6 for each additional copy.
What needs to accompany a memorial article?
All memorial articles need to be accompanied with a completed Memorial Article Inventory Sheet. A copy will be mailed or e-mailed to you or you can obtain a copy from this web site.
Where do I send the draft article?
Please include completed and send your draft article to:
Memorial Articles Editor
Association of Graduates
698 Mills Road
West Point, NY 10996
memorials@aogusma.org
» COLLECTING INFORMATION FOR MEMORIAL ARTICLES, SELF-WRITTEN MEMORIAL ARTICLES
Several years ago a study was conducted with the goal of assisting classes with getting Memorial Articles written. Two tools that came out of the study are an information sheet for collecting information at the time of a classmate’s funeral and a self-written Memorial Article form that will allow graduates to get the most pertinent information about them on paper to assist those who will be tasked to write the Memorial Article after their demise. It is suggested that the second form be completed in conjunction with a reunion. | 
