Dr. Ralph N. Grover (1921-1997)
Ralph served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II from 1943-1946. He was a first Lieutenant, a B-17 pilot assigned to the 100th Bomb Group 351st Squadron, 8th Air Force, Third Division, in England. He piloted many bombing missions over Germany and flew food drop missions over Holland. His Flying Fortress was never shot down, but he did see a lot of action.
At the end of the war, Ralph went back to school, and in 1947 received a BA in education from SUNY Plattsburgh, NY, an MA from St. Lawrence University. He then earned his doctorate from Columbia University in 1955. Ralph also studied at the American University in Biarritz, France and McGill University, Montreal. He joined the faculty at SUNY Plattsburgh in 1956 as a Professor of Education. He taught there for over 30 years and was considered a pioneer in the field of education administration and supervision.
Born June 18, 1921, the son of Ralph N. and Mary Arnold Grover, he married Joyce Reynolds of Philadelphia, N.Y. They had two sons, Douglas A. and Michael L. Ralph served as a member of Plattsburgh City District School Board, was a former PTA director for northern New York, and was involved with numerous committees and clubs in the community.
Ralph always had a passion for flying and as a member of the 100th Bomb Group Association, remained involved with various activities at the former Plattsburgh Air Force SAC Base. He especially enjoyed teaching the airmen stationed at the base. Ralph had many friends and colleagues and all would acknowledge he was a wise, dedicated leader and teacher, committed to his students, his community, and his country.