Huntsville Mourns the Loss of a Distinguished Veteran
Remembering Major General Grayson D. Tate Jr.
Huntsville is coming together to honor one of its most esteemed residents, Retired Major General Grayson D. Tate Jr., who passed away at the impressive age of 95 on November 6. A true gentleman and dedicated military leader, Tate’s life was a tapestry of achievement and service that touched the lives of many.
Brought up in Lockney and Denver City, Texas, Tate made his way to West Point, New York, where he graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in June 1950. He didn’t just stop there; he went on to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in aeronautical engineering from Georgia Tech. Talk about ambition!
Immediately after graduation, he married his love, Anne Hashagen, of Darien, Connecticut. Their wedding in June 1950 started a beautiful journey that lasted an incredible 74 years! Together, they raised a loving family that now includes four children, numerous grandchildren, and even a handful of great-grandchildren.
A Life Dedicated to Service
Tate dedicated an impressive 35 years of his life to the U.S. Army, where he bravely served in the Korean War and established himself as a leader in the fields of guided missiles and nuclear weapons research and development. His wide-ranging career saw him take on influential roles at various installations, including Fort Sill, Oklahoma; Redstone Arsenal; and Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico.
In a pivotal role, Tate served as the deputy commander of the missile command from October 1, 1975, to January 31, 1977. Following reorganization, he became the first commander of the Missile Research and Development Command (MIRADCOM), a position he held until July 1977. His decorated military career includes prestigious awards such as the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart. Veterans and active soldiers alike would look to him as a model of service and commitment.
A Life Beyond the Military
After retiring from the Army in 1985, Tate continued to contribute to the community through his work at CAS Inc. in Huntsville, where he served as a special assistant for missile defense for eight years. But that wasn’t all! Tate was an avid golfer and a passionate supporter of the U.S. Military Academy’s sports teams. His enthusiasm was contagious!
Tate also took on a notable role in establishing the Huntsville/Madison County Veterans Memorial, a heartfelt tribute to all veterans of U.S. conflicts. His commitment to his community extended further as an active member of the Huntsville Rotary Club and a long-standing member of the choir and building committee at Trinity United Methodist Church.
Remembering a Legacy
Survived by his beloved wife Anne, their four children—Debra, Randy, Lauren, and Lisa—and countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren, it’s safe to say that Tate’s legacy will live on through his family. A memorial service honoring this remarkable man was held at Trinity United Methodist Church in Huntsville, followed by his burial at West Point.
For those wanting to pay tribute, the family has requested donations be made to the West Point Association of Graduates or the Macular Degeneration Research/BrightFocus Foundation. Anyone wishing to send condolences can share them online at laughlinservice.com.
As the Huntsville community reflects on the life of Major General Grayson D. Tate Jr., his contributions, spirit, and dedication will surely be remembered and cherished for years to come.
