Campus News Mississippi State University

Former president helps salute Sonny, veterans

Bush Former president George Bush joined MSU President Malcolm Portera in presenting a game ball to MSU alumnus and former U.S. Congressman G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery during halftime ceremonies at the Nov. 18 MSU-Arkansas game.

A November campus tribute to American military veterans culminated with a recognition, assisted by former president George Bush, of former congressman G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery's career.

Bush took part in pre-game ceremonies at the MSU-Arkansas football game. The program honored Bush's longtime friend, a 1943 MSU graduate from Meridian whose 30-year House of Representatives career included authorship of a massive GI education bill that bears his name.

This was the former president's second visit to MSU. In May 1989, he was the university's commencement speaker, an accomplishment due, in no small part, to Montgomery's efforts.

Third District representative 1966-96, Montgomery also is a retired Mississippi National Guard major general. His 35 years of active and reserve duty included World War II service in Europe and company command in the 31st National Guard Infantry Division during the Korean conflict.

In 1996, at Montgomery's retirement from Congress, MSU created the Montgomery Scholars Endowed Fund, which now produces approximately $55,000 annually for some 20 Montgomery Scholars.

Several days of veterans-involved campus activities preceded the ceremony.