Featured Alumni - Buck Marsh ('49)

Malcolm "Buck" Marsh - Bond #884 (Auburn University ’49) Florence, AL
When Phi Delta Theta looks for someone to give the Distinguished Alumni Award it is bestowed to someone who has truly exemplary service to Phi Delta Theta, service to his community, and service to his country. All of these characteristics fit Malcolm "Buck" Marsh and more. Mr. Marsh was born in Florence, AL on May 16th, 1923. He graduated from Rockwood High school in 1941 and continued to Tennesee Tech. He then reported to Army Specialized Training program in August 1943 and was deployed to the European Theatre. Mr. Marsh endured losing friends, fridged temperatures, and enemy fire for four grueling months. As he returned he was highly decorated. Mr. Marsh received a Purple Heart, three battle stars: Battle of the Bulge, Rhineland, and Central Germany, lastly he eventually rose to the rank of 1st first Sergeant. As Mr. Marsh left the military he went straight to Auburn University and graduated as a member of Phi Delta Theta with a BS Degree in Building Technology. Mr. Marsh retired in December 2007 and lives happily with his wife Wanda Mitchell. He now spends his days traveling, spending time in his house back in the woods, or with his seven grandchildren.

As a member of Phi Delta Theta, the longest-serving member of the housing corporation, the founder and chairman of the East Alabama PDT Club, and author of the book "Reflection of a World War II Infantryman" I am honored to be a brother of Mr. Marsh. With his countless acts of courage, wisdom, and honor everyone should try to model themselves after him. He is someone that we should always remember as the ultimate Phi and someone who won the ultimate award, the Distinguished Alumni Award.