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Hoyt "Whip" Wilson
CSM Hoyt "Whip" Wilson was born
July 25, 1931, in Hall County, Georgia and grew up on a farm. He joined
the U S Army in 1948, for a 3-year hitch that turned into a dedicated 26
year career, retiring in 1974, with the rank of Sergeant Major E–9.
He graduated in the second Ranger
School graduating class in March, 1952, when the camp was just that – a
camp of tents at what is now Camp Glisson. Out of his Ranger Class of
136 students, only 36 graduated with the Ranger Tab.
He served combat tours in Korea and
Viet Nam, and received numerous decorations including the Purple Heart.
SGM Wilson was wounded at Heartbreak Ridge, and he spent three months in
a hospital in Japan – then was sent back to his frontline unit. SGM
Wilson served thirteen years at Camp Frank D Merrill with duties as a
Ranger Instructor, NCOIC – patrolling committee, and Camp Sergeant
Major. He ended his military career by serving a tour in the ROTC
program at North Georgia College and State University.
SGM Wilson was referred to as "Whip" – a
nickname he was always known by; its origin is unknown.
Whip was one of a kind. He loved being
an Airborne Ranger and he led by example as a Ranger Instructor and Camp
Sergeant Major. SGM Hoyt "Whip" Wilson was known throughout the Army for
his work ethic, integrity, personal strength, humility and his
dedication to duty. After his
retirement, Whip served again at Camp Merrill, working for DOD at the
Motor Pool. He was an active member of American Legion Post #239 in
Dahlonega, Georgia. Whip passed away on October 3, 2010, at age 79 and
is greatly missed by his family and comrades who served with him. Whip
Wilson is a role model for others to follow. His footprints will always
remain in the Ranger Training areas of the North Georgia mountains.
Whip, thanks for your dedicated service to our nation.
Nominated by Willard Langdon |
