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WALTER E HOYE
RANDOLPH-MACON COLLEGE
CLASS OF 1967
After graduating from R-MC, Walter began a career at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren Virginia. The first 13 years of his career were spent in lasers, electro-optics, and atmospheric physics studying over-water propagation of lasers for the purpose of directing laser guided weapons. He also directed a program developing an Infrared Search and Track system that could scan and automatically detect and track airborne targets.
Along the way, in 1972, Walter earned his Master of Science degree in Physics from Williams College in Williamstown, MA. Incidentally, Walter had two R-MC Physics classmates with him at Williams, Allan Watkins (’66) and David Larrabee (‘67). Walter’s thesis topic was entitled “Phase Matched Third-Harmonic Generation for Off Axis Propagation in Cholesteric Liquid Crystals”.
Returning to the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Walter became head of a Branch developing Radar Fire Control for Navy Frigates. In 1986 he was selected to lead a Branch developing technology and designs for Navy missile warheads. He worked closely with the Office of Naval Research and led a team developing advanced reactive materials and composites enhance weapon systems performance. Walter has worked for many years with the US National and International Weapons communities evaluating technology and leading strategic studies for future developments.
Walter has been active in local community life, coaching youth recreational sports, participating in Dahlgren Lions Club activities, and working within his church.