KENT W. SLAUGHTER, 1LT, USAF
Kent Slaughter '57
Lucky Bag
From the 1957 Lucky Bag:
KENT WITHERS SLAUGHTER
New York City, New York
Like most others, Ken took that unforgettable oath four years ago, innocent and unknowing. During his stay here, however, he developed an avid affection for aviation, and a bitter hatred for the swimming courses. His ability to run the cross-country course without harm to his wellbeing made him a valuable asset to the Fighting Fourth Company. Although never a star man in academics, "K. W." did manage to get in his share of rack time and town liberty. During his free hours spent in the hall, the majority of time was spent listening to his collection of progressive jazz records. His good sense of humor and a genuine liking for USNA made it possible for Ken to enjoy his four year stay.
He was also a member of the 4th Company staff (winter).
KENT WITHERS SLAUGHTER
New York City, New York
Like most others, Ken took that unforgettable oath four years ago, innocent and unknowing. During his stay here, however, he developed an avid affection for aviation, and a bitter hatred for the swimming courses. His ability to run the cross-country course without harm to his wellbeing made him a valuable asset to the Fighting Fourth Company. Although never a star man in academics, "K. W." did manage to get in his share of rack time and town liberty. During his free hours spent in the hall, the majority of time was spent listening to his collection of progressive jazz records. His good sense of humor and a genuine liking for USNA made it possible for Ken to enjoy his four year stay.
He was also a member of the 4th Company staff (winter).
Loss
From Find A Grave:
1st Lt. Slaughter perished in the crash of a U.S. Air Force B-52G Stratofortress (#58-0180) during touch and go practice at Ramey Air Force Base, Aguadillo, Puerto Rico. Six other crewmembers were also killed.
He was the aircraft's navigator.
Other Information
From researcher Kathy Franz:
Kent was the first Black to receive a congressional appointment to the Naval Academy. He was appointed by Congressman Robert Tripp Ross of New York’s 5th Congressional District (Queens).
He graduated from Our Lady of Sorrows School, Corona, and Brooklyn Technical High School. After graduation from the Naval Academy, he went to Ellington Air Force Base, Houston, Texas.
His father Henry was a lawyer and a referee for the State Workmen’s Compensation Board. His mother Bernice was a member of Local School Board 48 (covering Flushing, Hillcrest and Corona.) Sister Carol, brother Anton.
Kent is buried in New York.
The "category" links below lead to lists of related Honorees; use them to explore further the service and sacrifice of alumni in Memorial Hall.
