Athletic and Military Hall of Fame
DECEMBER 9, 2023
Since the re-opening of Rockvale High School in the fall of 2019, one of the many goals adopted was to bridge the past with the present. Opening its doors in 1927 and closing them in 1972, Rockvale served the community with many students passing through the halls. Re-opening Rockvale High School in August of 2019 was a momentous event for the Rockvale community. In the words of Pettus Read, “We get our do-over.” Rockvale High School has forged its way honoring the past, while speaking to the future.
Rockvale didn’t start out being the Rockets. That name came later. During WWII, many students left school and enlisted in a branch of the military even before graduation. When they returned, to honor the military, they named the mascot “The Rockets.” Col. Bob Farris was instrumental in getting the rocket you see in front of the school donated after his return.
While creating the school’s first hall of fame, we wanted to incorporate more than just athletics. Rockvale High School has a rich tradition of military service for this great country. The principal and the committee unanimously agreed to incorporate not just atheletes into Rockvale’s Hall of Fame, but also our students and alumni who have selflessly served in all branches of the military to serve our nation. We are excited to begin this new chapter of the Rockvale High School Athletic and Military Hall of Fame by continuing to build the connections of the past, to the present, and the future Rockvale.
Our first inductees included two TSSAA State Championship appearnce teams:
1941 Men’s Basketball Team and the 1962 Women’s Basketball Team were the first two teams to advance to the state tournament in Rockvale School history. We celebrate their accomplishments for leading the way for our future teams.
Two athletic inductees:
Greta Delbridge Brown, graduated in 1957, and Homer Brown, graduated in 1955, were stellar basketball players during their Rockvale School tenure. They have also been major contributors to the Rockvale community and Rockvale schools.
Two military inductees:
Mr. Frank Hayes – Frank Hayes’ military service was one of extraordinary bravery and courage. Mr. Hayes left high school before graduating to serve his country in the European Theatre during World War II. He was a Purple Heart recipient because of an injury sustained during battle. Mr. Frank Hayes superior military service reflects great credit upon himself, the United States Army, and Rockvale High School. Frank Hayes left for war in 1944 and retunred to graduate from Rockvale High School 1948.
COL Bob Farris – Colonel Bob Farris’ military service exemplified the heart of American courage and bravery. Colonel Farris military service was one of honor and distinction, serving at the Pentagon under three different presidents. Colonel Bob Farris’ exemplary military service reflects great credit upon himself, the United States Army, and Rockvale High School. Graduated Rockvale High School in 1950.