To Herman V. Ivey [Letter 579]

Herman Ivey was a lieutenant colonel and English instructor at the US Military Academy, West Point. For Ivey’s reminiscences about AR and her visit to West Point, see his interview in 100 Voices: An Oral History of Ayn Rand, pp. 483-93.

March 20, 1974

Lieutenant Colonel Herman V. Ivey
Department of English
United States Military Academy
West Point, New York  10996

Dear Colonel Ivey,

I want to thank you for your help and guidance, and for arranging my lecture at West Point.[*] After all the time and effort which you gave to the task of briefing me, on your visits to New York, I am delighted that the occasion was so successful.

I believe that the cadets enjoyed it—and as for me, it was the most interesting and enjoyable of my lecture appearances. As you might have gathered, I do admire rational military efficiency, and you stand in my mind as one of its best symbols.

I hear that my lecture did stimulate the cadets to philosophical discussions. If you can, let me know a little about it, I would be most interested. If you have played the tape of my lecture for other departments, please let me know the response.

And please don’t forget to send me a program of the West Point band concerts. All of us are anxious to see West Point again and to hear your band.

With best regards from both of us to both of you,

Cordially,

Ayn Rand

AR/as

*“Philosophy: Who Needs It,” later the title essay of a book.