Don Putnam, your outstanding achievements and spirited
dedication have earned you a place among the esteemed members of
the WPI athletic community. A winner of seven varsity letters in
football and baseball, you had a competitive desire that will never
be forgotten.
The epitome of the all-around athlete, you achieved a level of
success on the gridiron and the diamond that speak well of your
remarkable skill and determination.
As a former five-letter high school athlete and Massachusetts
State Class B low hurdle champion, you broke into the Boynton
Hillers' backfield as a freshman in 1928. You starred not only on
offense, where you were a left halfback, but also on defense as
linebacker, where you were known for crushing tackles. Few who saw
it will never forget your gutsy play against Trinity, when your
running led Tech to a 13 to 7 victory.
It was not only your expertise on the field, but your character
and determination that led your teammates to elect you football
captain in your senior season.
In the springtime, your talents and interests shifted to the
baseball diamond, where you earned three letters and were
considered one of the finest shortstops in New England. Only a
serious football injury prevented you from winning a fourth
letter.
A top hitter, you utilized your power to crack home runs and you
developed a reputation as one of the toughest outs on the team - a
reputation borne out one day against the University of Rhode Island
when you had a perfect day at bat.
Not just a top athlete, you were prominent and active student.
You were honored by Skull as a freshman and served as its president
in 1931. You were also a member of Lambda Chi Alpha.
Don Putnam, it is with a tremendous sense of pride and honor
that tonight we induct you into the WPI Athletics Hall of Fame.
