University of San Diego alum Roger E. Myers graduated from the College for Men in 1967 with a BA in Political Science. More than just a milestone in his education, Myers credits his acceptance to USD with saving his life. This pivotal experience was the impetus behind Roger's decision to include USD in his estate plans. Discover the exciting—and often humorous—story behind Roger's generous decision, told in his own words.

How USD Saved My Life and Thanks to Dean Irving Parker

In 1965 the Vietnam war — well it wasn't a real war yet — was ramping up under President Lyndon Johnson. Young men were being drafted in large numbers, while widespread protests included burning draft cards and running off to Canada.

I was enjoying the California lifestyle on the beach and in the sun when suddenly I received a notice from the Selective Service telling me to report for a physical exam. That meant only one thing to me. I was about to be drafted and sent to Vietnam where I would likely die.

I did go for the physical and while the image of that day has been suppressed over time, I clearly recall being in a large warehouse with hundreds of young men dressed down to our knickers. A very bored-looking doctor took one brief look at me and moved me along.

The only way out for me was to get a student deferment. That would not be easy, especially since I had flunked out of one college and my GPA was far from impressive.

I was able to make an appointment with the University of San Diego College for Men as it was then known. The dean of admissions was Irving Parker. I remember little of the interview with the dean, except the most important part; Dean Parker had agreed to admit me to USD.

It took a while before I was able to raise my GPA high enough to earn a BA in Political Science. As a result, I managed to earn a four-year degree in just six and a half years!

After graduation on October 17, 1967, I reported to the US Navy Aviation Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Florida. The irony of it all? Just two years later I was flying F-4 Phantom jets over Vietnam!

I spent the next 20 years in the Navy flying jets and retired at the rank of Commander (as well as the Commanding Officer of an F-14 squadron.)

It struck me that I went from almost being drafted as cannon fodder to enjoying a respectable military career of which I am proud to this day. And that's how USD and Dean Irving Parker saved my life.

If you would like to share your USD story or to learn how you can leave a portion of your legacy to university, please contact Erin Kathleen Jones at [email protected] or 619-944-3318.