'How do you begin to repay a Grandad who gave you the world?'

Editor's Note: John Kelty '16 shared this touching Aggie Ring story with us just after the new year. The subject line of his email said, "How do you begin to repay a Grandad who gave you the world?" We are grateful that John shared the story and proud of the loyalty and Aggie Spirit his story highlights.

"Many won’t understand why, but for multiple reasons this was my favorite Christmas yet. This man, James F. Kelty DVM ‘47, gave me more in life than I could ever repay him for and is the reason for anything good in me (including why I chose to go to the service & to Texas A&M University afterwards). So, aside from striving to live my life as the man he taught me to be, there’s only one other way to repay this man: 

The Aggie Ring is a physical symbol of something much greater than the ring itself, only second in importance to your wedding band. From the outside looking in, you can’t understand it. From in the inside looking out, you can’t explain it. His was stolen from “The 909 House” around 12 years ago; and 3 years ago, while I was preparing to order mine, I made a promise to myself that as soon as I was financially able to, I would replace my grandad’s Aggie Ring as well. That day finally came today, and to see his eyes well up, and hear the sound of his breath taken away when he opened that ring box to this surprise...I got to see a 94 year old man travel back in time 70+ years. I love you, Jimmy. Merry Christmas. 

— John K. Kelty ‘16