My dad, Lieutenant Colonel Raymond C. Lutz, graduated from Pitt Dental school in 1917 just in time to join the Army and serve on active duty at Camp Hancock. He stayed in the reserves and during the 1930s served as commander of the Perry L. Gaston Post in New Castle, Pa. He was called back to active duty in 1942 and served until 1945.

My oldest brother, Joe served in the U.S. Navy from 1946-47. Brother Dave served in the Pennsylvania National Guard in the 1960s. Sister Phyllis married a career Army officer who served 20 years. Brother Jim served in the U.S. Air Force from 1956-1960. I joined the Navy in 1963-67 serving aboard the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt and attaining the rank of lieutenant. My son Jeff served in Gulf I as a QM3 with PhibSeaBee 2.

Dad did not get to see me in uniform since he died six months prior to my joining the Navy. He knew, however, my intent and would have been proud to see his grandson complete the three generations of military service.