In saluting a distinguished graduate of its class of 1958, Cameron University is paying tribute to a distinguished Army retiree.

The Cameron University Alumni Association recognizes winners of its 2011 Distinguished Alumni and Faculty Hall of Fame Award during the Aggie Family & Friends Awards lunch on Feb. 26 in the McCasland Ballroom.

The Distinguished Alumni Award is presented to former Cameron students who have made significant contributions to society and whose accomplishments have brought credit to Cameron by distinguishing themselves in their careers and/or in service to their communities and/or through continued support of Cameron University. Dr. Michael W. Geiger, class of 1986, and Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Wilson A. "Dutch" Shoffner, class of 1958, are the 2011 recipients.

While attending Cameron State Agricultural College, Shoffner was a member of the Army ROTC program, belonged to Phi Theta Kappa and was a member of Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities. He also served as a Student Senate officer and as president of the Student Government Association.

Commissioned in 1967, Shoffner served in the U.S. Army for 32 years. Among his highest assignments was that of Deputy Chief of Staff for Military Operations in Washington, D.C. He became a lieutenant general in 1991 and retired two years later as commanding general of the U.S. Army Combined Arms Command at Fort Leavenworth, Kan.

He was recognized with numerous decorations and badges throughout his career, including the prestigious Distinguished Service Medal, which is awarded for exceptional performance in a duty of great responsibility, and the Bronze Star, which is awarded for meritorious service.

Following his retirement, he was appointed vice president for product development at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. Retired from that position in 2003, he now resides in Colleyville, Texas, where he volunteers his time and services to organizations in that community.

Shoffner received Cameron's President's Distinguished Service Award in 1987. He continues to return to the Cameron campus to speak to ROTC cadets about the principles of leadership.

The ceremony kicks off at 11 a.m. and is open to the public. Lunch tickets are $15 and must be purchased in advance by calling 581-2988.