Thomas John Hall Trapnell '23

Gen. "Trap" Hall Trapnell became renowned throughout Virginia as a star halfback for his speed and endurance on the EHS gridiron. He shared the spotlight with teammate George Morton, and together they were two of the powerhouses of an undefeated team. Gen. Trapnell brought equal talent to the track team and was its captain in 1922. Also, he was elected Monitor and President of the Blackford Literary Society.
At West Point, Gen. Trapnell earned three letters in football, four in lacrosse and was a top rifle and pistol shooter. He was named All-American in football, starred in lacrosse and three times was elected president of his class.
His 35-year military career included serving as a cavalry officer at Fort Myer, where he won national acclaim as a polo player. He was highly decorated for heroism in World War II. As a POW, Gen. Trapnell survived the Bataan Death March and was on two prison ships that were sunk by American planes. His service medals include the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star and Purple Heart. After World War II, he began a second army career as an airborne officer and served in the Korean War. He earned the rank of Lieutenant General before his retirement.
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