David E. Pergrin, American colonel and engineer (b. 1917)

Colonel David E. Pergrin, whose remarkable life spanned from July 26, 1917, to April 7, 2012, is widely recognized for his distinguished service during World War II as the commanding officer of the United States Army's 291st Engineer Combat Battalion. Beyond his military valor, Pergrin left an enduring mark on his alma mater, Pennsylvania State University, particularly through his pivotal role in creating one of its most cherished symbols.

Before the global conflict called him to duty, Pergrin was a highly accomplished student at Penn State. He pursued an engineering degree, a field that undoubtedly honed the strategic and problem-solving skills he would later apply with great effect in combat. Graduating in 1940, a year on the precipice of profound world changes, his collegiate career was characterized by an exceptional blend of academic rigor and vibrant extracurricular engagement. Pergrin was an active participant in the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program, a clear early indicator of his dedication to military service and leadership.

His talents extended far beyond the classroom and ROTC drills. Pergrin showcased his athletic prowess as a member of the university's football team, demonstrating teamwork and discipline. Academically, his brilliance was formally recognized through his election to two prestigious engineering honor societies: Tau Beta Pi, which is the oldest engineering honor society in the United States, celebrating superior scholarship and exemplary character across all engineering disciplines, and Chi Epsilon, specifically for civil engineering students, further highlighting his academic excellence within his chosen specialization. His strong leadership qualities culminated in his election as senior class president. In a testament to his widespread respect and popularity among his peers, Pergrin was also voted "Outstanding Non-Fraternity senior" before his graduation, a unique distinction underscoring his broad appeal and the high esteem he garnered from the entire student body, irrespective of Greek life affiliations.

The Enduring Legacy of the Nittany Lion Shrine

It was in his influential capacity as senior class president that David Pergrin facilitated one of his most significant and visible contributions to Penn State: the iconic Nittany Lion Shrine. This monumental sculpture, crafted from 14 tons of Indiana limestone, was conceived as the Class of 1940's enduring gift to the university. It was intended to serve as a tangible embodiment of the "Penn State tradition" – symbolizing the strength, pride, and steadfast spirit of the Nittany Lion, the university's beloved and fierce mascot. While the Class of 1940 proudly presented this significant gift in their graduation year, its official dedication, marking its formal unveiling to the wider public and community, was notably postponed until 1942. This delay was primarily a consequence of the escalating global conflict and the United States' entry into World War II, which understandably shifted national priorities and profoundly impacted campus life and planned ceremonies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Colonel David E. Pergrin?

Colonel David E. Pergrin (1917–2012) was a distinguished United States Army officer who served as the commanding officer of the 291st Engineer Combat Battalion during World War II. He is also remembered for his significant contributions as a student leader at Pennsylvania State University, particularly regarding the Nittany Lion Shrine.

What was David Pergrin's connection to Penn State University?

Pergrin was a highly accomplished student at Penn State, graduating in 1940 with an engineering degree. He participated in ROTC, played on the football team, was elected to two engineering honor societies (Tau Beta Pi and Chi Epsilon), and served as senior class president, where he oversaw the gift of the Nittany Lion Shrine.

What is the Nittany Lion Shrine?

The Nittany Lion Shrine is a 14-ton limestone monument on the Penn State University campus, symbolizing the "Penn State tradition" and representing the university's beloved Nittany Lion mascot. It was the Class of 1940's gift, presented through their senior class president, David E. Pergrin.

Why was the Nittany Lion Shrine dedicated in 1942 if it was a Class of 1940 gift?

Although the Class of 1940 presented the Nittany Lion Shrine to the university in their graduating year, its official dedication was postponed until 1942 due to the escalating global conflict and the United States' entry into World War II, which impacted campus events and national focus.

What does 'Outstanding Non-Fraternity senior' mean?

This distinction, awarded to Pergrin before his graduation, signified that he was recognized as an exemplary senior student who was not affiliated with a fraternity. It highlights his broad appeal and respect among the entire student body, demonstrating his leadership and character extended beyond specific social groups.

What are Tau Beta Pi and Chi Epsilon?

Tau Beta Pi is the second-oldest honor society in the United States and the oldest engineering honor society, recognizing engineering students for distinguished scholarship and exemplary character. Chi Epsilon is an honor society specifically for civil engineering students, acknowledging those who have demonstrated scholarship, character, practicality, and sociability.