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Hall of Honor Recipient

Robert B. Lapham
Class of 1935
Inducted in 1994-95

    It was only fitting that General MacArthur would personally present the Distinguished Service Cross (the Army’s second highest award) to Robert B. Lapham.  For his heroic action, Bob was also awarded the Philippine Legion of Honor - only the second non-Filipino to be so honored.  Volunteering to serve in the Philippine’s in 1941 after receiving his commission as a 2nd Lt. In the Infantry, he also volunteered to join a raiding party to harass the enemy from the rear.   After the fall of Bataan he refused to surrender and instead organized a guerrilla force that eventually grew to approximately 15,000 me.  He and his guerillas actively and effectively frustrated the enemy while at the same time avoiding disease, injury, traitors, and a $1,000,000 price tag on his head.  After the American troops landed in Central Luzon, his men were guides and scouts for them until the surrender of the Japanese.  Along with the 6th Army Rangers, his group participated in the liberation of over 500 POWs.

    After returning to civilian life, he joined Burroughs Corp., eventually becoming Corporate Vice President of Employee and Industrial Relations in Detroit.  While in Detroit, he served on the Board of directors of the Detroit Urban League and the International institute.  He also held several positions with the United Foundation.

    Bob is now living in Sun City, Arizona since retiring and is active in his local Episcopal Church, the country club and does volunteer work at his local hospital.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

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