MAX was named for MAX BEILKE, who paid the ultimate price in the attack on America September 11, 2001. Master Sergeant Beilke, age 69, Laurel, Maryland, formerly of Alexandria, Minnesota, was retired from active duty in the Army as a master sergeant and was a civilian employee on the day he died. He was the Deputy Chief, Army Retirement Services, Headquarters, Department of the Army and worked at the Pentagon when the terror attack happened. Once a soldier, always a soldier, though Master Sergeant Beilke enjoyed tending to his flowers, his main love was being an advocate for soldiers. Master Sergeant Beilke served in both the Korean and Vietnam wars and was the last American combat soldier to leave Vietnam after the Vietnam War. Master Sergeant Beilke authored an electronic newsletter called "Max Facts." He is survived by his wife, two daughters, and three grandsons. His remains are buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Pet Harbor salutes Master Sergeant Beilke, a hero, and names this wonderful kitty in his honor. Max's daughter Sylvia wrote us and let us know Max "always did like cats." We feel certain Master Sergeant Beilke is surrounded with angel kitties who will keep him company in his place of honor now.

(Source: The Baltimore Sun 9/15/01, The Seattle Times 9/17/01)