PMC Classes of the 1890s

Carr served in the Philippines and WWI before becoming Chief Signal Officer, where he modernized Army communications with FM radio, walkie‑talkies, and expanded radio networks. A Silver Star recipient, he retired as a major general and is buried at Arlington.

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George B. Christian, Jr. rose from PMC distinguished cadet to become President Warren G. Harding’s personal secretary, functioning as an early White House Chief of Staff. A trusted advisor, he managed presidential affairs and later helped lead efforts to honor Harding’s legacy.

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Though he left PMC before graduating, Cecil B. DeMille credited the school’s discipline and values as formative influences before becoming one of Hollywood’s most influential directors and creators of epic biblical films.

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Raymond W. Hardenbergh’s path from PMC to military service began in 1898, when he enlisted in the Spanish-American War before completing his degree. His career would take him across global conflicts—but his legacy lives on through the story of Rags, the war dog whose bravery became legend.

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Awarded for heroism in both the Philippine Insurrection and World War I, Hobbs’ service was marked by extraordinary bravery. His writings offer a rare account of conflicts often left out of the broader narrative.

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Howell, an exceptional cadet and later a longtime trustee and solicitor, helped steer PMC through the financial turmoil of the Great Depression. As interim president, he strengthened programs and stabilized operations. His decades of service were honored with the naming of Howell Hall.

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Just weeks before Commencement, Ezra H. Ripple left PMC to enlist in the Spanish-American War—earning his civil engineering degree alongside his fellow cadets. His service would span decades, rising from the ranks to command the 13th Pennsylvania and serve again during World War I.

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Frank B. Wood served as a First Lieutenant in the 4th Wisconsin Infantry during the Spanish-American War. Afterward, he became an auto and aviation enthusiast, contributing to early road racing and reportedly witnessing the Wright Brothers’ flights. Later, he moved to Panama City, FL, where he became the first Commodore of the St. Andrew Bay Yacht Club.

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