By Leigh C. Gust, WPAOG Development Communications Manager

On Friday, September 11, the Department of Chemical and Biological Science and Engineering hosted the unveiling of the LTC Paul J. Finken ’89 Memorial Endowment Plaque in support of the Pre-Medical Scholars Program. The dedication honored the legacy of service, leadership, and generosity that defined the life and career of LTC Paul Finken ’89.

LTC Finken graduated from USMA one year after his twin brother, Peter ’88. He served in the Army for 18 years with distinction. On November 2, 2006, while completing his second tour of duty in Operation Iraqi Freedom, LTC Finken and two other soldiers were killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle in Baghdad, Iraq. He is survived by his wife, Jackie, and their three daughters, Emilie, Caroline, and Julia.

The plaque ceremony and a tailgate the following day brought together graduates from the Classes of 1976, 1988, and 1989, along with friends, family members, and members of the Long Gray Line who gathered to honor Paul’s memory. Some knew Paul, while others came simply because they understood the importance of honoring one of their own.  Another highlight of the visit was the family’s presentation of a $2 million check at Michie Stadium during the Army football game against South Florida. Together, the gatherings reflected the enduring bonds of the Long Gray Line and demonstrated how one person’s life and service can reach far beyond those who knew him personally.

The Paul Finken ’89 Memorial Endowment was established by Gary ’76 and Sandy McKenzie, along with several other donors, to provide lasting support for cadets preparing for careers in medicine. It will fund academic opportunities such as advanced research experiences, conferences, and other programs that strengthen their preparation for medical school.

The endowment will also support the West Point Pre-Medical Society, helping cadets learn, serve, and prepare for the medical profession together. In addition, it will provide MCAT preparation resources and other support for cadets applying to medical school.

Dean of the Academic Board BG Nicholas Gist ’94 spoke during the ceremony, emphasizing the endowment’s role in strengthening West Point’s mission to prepare future Army physicians through the Pre-Medical Scholars Program. “The endowment established in Paul’s name will help strengthen one of West Point’s important missions: preparing future Army physicians,” Gist said.

He also highlighted the program’s impact on cadets and graduates, including LTC Mike Donahue ’05, Chair of Orthopedic Surgery at Keller Army Community Hospital. Donahue reflected on how West Point prepared him for a career in military medicine:

“West Point did not just teach me the foundations to becoming a military orthopedic surgeon. It forged the grit, decisiveness, and leadership required to practice medicine in high-stakes environments, from the fields of friendly strife at West Point to caring for our warfighters at the tip of the spear while abroad.”

Gary McKenzie ’76 shared, “We’re not just raising money; this is a movement.” The weekend’s events reflected that spirit, bringing together graduates, family, friends, and supporters united by a shared commitment to honor Paul’s life and invest in the cadets who will follow.

Through the endowment, Paul’s name, service, and sacrifice will continue to inspire cadets preparing for careers in military medicine. They will have greater access to the resources and opportunities needed to answer the call to serve others, while the next generation of Army medical officers will be better prepared to care for soldiers, their families, and veterans with the same dedication and commitment that defined Paul’s life.