Colonel Beverly N. "Ben" Skardon

I remember Professor Skardon well, and I was thinking about him for some reason this morning. He was every inch the retired Marine but I had no idea how incredible his military career was.
I do remember his words on the first day of vocabulary class at Clemson in 1971.
Addressing the engineering and pre-med students he said: I suppose you’re wondering why you have to take this class. It’s so you won’t be so damn ignorant!
Great class, great teacher. I still look up words I...

I met COL Skardon at his first Bataan Memorial March in 2007 (?). He was 90 at the time. He was with the other Bataan survivors in a greeting line. As far as I can recall, once all the marchers had passed, he and his "Brigade" starting walking too. Every time he walked, I had the opportunity to walk some with him, including the last walk I was on in 2017 (?). He was a fine, fine person. Those of us "Bataaners" that did the memorial march though highly of him. He was the shining star of...

Professor Skardon stood up for my now wife in 1965. We visited him twice after that-once in the late 90's & again 4 years ago, which at that time he was not a home but in church. He did write a beautiful letter to us after that, that we will dearly cherish. What a great man, teacher, patriot & mentor!.

I had two classes with Col. Skardon, advanced composition and public speaking, and was privileged to keep up with him through the years. Because of him, I'm now a writer. I never met a more remarkable -- and delightful -- person. Best wishes to all his beloved family, including Donna.

ColI mean General Skardon is one of my hero's of life. I was blessed to have him as an English professor for many classes at Clemson and then as a life long friend and a fellow marcher at the Bataan Death March Marathon for years. Was fortunate to get to visit with him 3 weeks ago with my wife Erin and friends. We spend almost 2 hours telling stories and laughing. Will miss my friend. Bill Taylor

I am so sorry about Ben. I worked for the Alzheimer's Association when he volunteered to facilitate the Family Caregiver support group. His leadership was very grand meaningful to those caregivers needing education and emotional support. I am grateful for the opportunity to have known him and to have had that connection.

Ben was one of the finest people we have ever had the privilege of knowing. He overcame numerous challenges and always seemed to come out a much stronger person. When we would visit him often to take over our homemade cinnamon rolls, a favorite treat of his, he would always greet us with a smile and a twinkle in his eyes. He is an example of the best of the best in all of humankind. He will be greatly missed.

We salute Colonel Ben Skardon for his exemplary life of service to country and community. Well done, Colonel Skardon. Godspeed. -- The Pickens County Historical Society

Thank you so much for your selfless service and sacrifice for our Nation, as well as, your contributions and commitments to Clemson and our community. Myself and my family are very grateful for all of the sacrifices that you made Colonel Skardon, and send our deepest condolences to your family at this time. You will not be forgotten. Russell, Laura, Bryson and Kinsey Moats - Anderson, SC 11/19/21