Fond memories of Doc Blanchard

Noting the passing of football great "Doc" Blanchard brings in some memories of the 1940s. He was paired with speedster Glen Davis at West Point.

I think of him in games with Notre Dame. (We would see him in Saturday afternoon newsreels) In 1944: Army 48-Notre Dame 0; 1945: Army 56-Notre Dame 0. Then World War II ended, and the boys returned from the military.

In 1946, it was Army 0-Notre Dame 0. The most vivid view I had of "Mr. Inside" was that of an opponent grabbing his shoulders from the rear at the 10-yard line. Heisman winner-to-be Blanchard simply powered his opponent across the goal line.

So long, "Doc" Blanchard, it was great to see you play.

Dick Major

Carol Stream