Donate to the 1856 Campaign

The 1856 Campaign is in full swing. We appreciate all of you who have donated through the website to the General Fund or designated giving programs. Please help us finish this campaign strong. It will be concluding in January. Donate now!

Donate to the 1856 Campaign!

Lt. Gen. Raymond A. Wheeler: Architect of Victory and Infrastructure

Peoria High School Class of 1903

From the Panama Canal to the Ledo Road, to the surrender of the Japanese in the India, China and Burma Theater of War in WW II-

Ray Wheeler Class of 1903 was there!

Commander, Services Of Supply (SOS), 1942-1943

Deputy Supreme Commander, Southeast Asia Command (SEAC) 1943-1945

Commander, India-Burma Theater (IBT) 1945

Lt Gen Wheeler at work

Lt. Gen. Raymond Albert Wheeler, known affectionately as “Speck,” was one of the most accomplished military engineers in U.S. history. His career spanned nearly four decades, encompassing two world wars and a legacy of engineering achievements that reshaped global logistics and infrastructure.

Early Life and Military Foundations

Born on July 31, 1885, in Peoria, Illinois, Wheeler graduated fifth in his class from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1911. Commissioned into the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, he quickly distinguished himself through a combination of technical brilliance and strategic foresight. His early assignments included work in Mexico and the Panama Canal Zone, laying the groundwork for a career that would blend engineering with international diplomacy.

World War I and Interwar Contributions

During World War I, Wheeler served with distinction in France, earning the Silver Star for gallantry at the Marne. In the interwar years, he continued to rise through the ranks, attending the Army Engineer School, Command and General Staff College, and the Army War College. His assignments included overseeing river and harbor improvements and contributing to the development of the Missouri Basin Program.

Strategic Leadership in World War II

Wheeler’s most significant contributions came during World War II. As Chief Engineer of the U.S. Army Forces in the Middle East, he directed the construction of vital supply routes through Iran and Iraq to support the Soviet war effort. Later, as Commanding General of the India-Burma Theater, he oversaw the construction of the Ledo Road—a monumental engineering feat that connected India to China through treacherous terrain.

In 1944, Wheeler was appointed Deputy Supreme Allied Commander of the South East Asia Command under Admiral Lord Louis Mountbatten. His leadership was instrumental in coordinating Allied operations in Burma and Southeast Asia. On August 15, 1945, Wheeler accepted the Japanese surrender in Singapore, marking a historic moment in the region’s liberation.

Postwar Legacy and Global Impact

After the war, Wheeler served as Chief of Engineers and continued to influence global infrastructure. He played key roles in the planning of the St. Lawrence Seaway and the clearing of the Suez Canal during the 1956 crisis. His expertise was sought worldwide, and he remained active in engineering and diplomatic circles well into retirement.

Honors and Final Years

Wheeler received numerous accolades, including four Distinguished Service Medals, the Legion of Merit, and international honors such as the Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) and the Order of the Indian Empire (KCIE). He passed away on February 9, 1974, at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and was buried with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery.

The Ledo Road and Raymond A. Wheeler: A Brief History

The Strategic Supply Route and the Leadership That Made It Possible

Introduction

The Ledo Road, often called the "Stilwell Road," was a major World War II engineering accomplishment. Connecting India to China through Burma (now Myanmar), it was constructed to provide an overland supply route to support Chinese forces fighting against Japan after the traditional Burma Road was cut off in 1942.

Building the Ledo Road

The Ledo Road began at Ledo, Assam, in northeastern India, winding through dense jungles, mountainous terrain, and challenging weather conditions before linking with the Burma Road in China. Its construction was an extraordinary feat, involving thousands of American, British, Indian, and Chinese engineers and laborers. The road stretched approximately 465 miles from Ledo to the Chinese border, eventually extending nearly 1,079 miles to Kunming, China.

Engineers had to overcome numerous obstacles, including monsoon rains, landslides, malaria, and hostile Japanese forces. The road's completion allowed vital supplies—trucks, weapons, food, and medical equipment—to reach Chinese troops and civilians, strengthening the Allied war effort in Asia.

Raymond A. Wheeler’s Impact

Major General Raymond A. Wheeler played a pivotal role in the construction of the Ledo Road. As the Chief Engineer of the U.S. Army in the China-Burma-India Theater, Wheeler oversaw all engineering operations, including the design, logistics, and execution of the road project.

Wheeler’s leadership was instrumental in coordinating the multinational workforce and overcoming logistical hurdles. His emphasis on innovation and efficient resource management helped expedite the construction process, even in the face of daunting natural and enemy threats. Wheeler’s commitment not only ensured the successful completion of the Ledo Road but also boosted morale among workers and soldiers, reinforcing the importance of their mission.

Peoria had an impact on the Ledo Road

We have not researched this yet but we may have had some PHS Alumni in that Battalion! We are checking it out.

“PEORIA” ON THE LEDO ROAD

This advertisement in LIFE magazine by Caterpillar features Little Peoria on the Ledo Road.

Peoria, Illinois was where Caterpillar bulldozers were built.

"Little Peoria" on the Ledo Road in Burma is where they were serviced.

In need of skilled workers to maintain and repair the equipment being used in India and Burma, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers called on Caterpillar.

The result was formation of the 497th Engineer Heavy Shop Company, the first unit in American history organized by a manufacturing company and manned primarily by its own employees.

At the 142nd General Hospital, Calcutta, Lt. General Raymond A. Wheeler (on right) chats with three recently repatriated U.S. POWs from the 2d Battalion, 131st Field Artillery (aka The Lost Battalion), who were captured in Java, March 1942. They were held in prison camps in Java, Singapore, Burma and Thailand and were in Thailand when released. From left to right; Private First Class Howard Higginbotham, Private First Class Robert W. Kenny, Private First Class Adolphus C. Morrow. (US Army photo dated 9 September 1945)

A very small portion of the Ledo Road and the challenges of the Army Engineers

Lt Gen Wheeler was the senior U.S. military officer present at the Japanese Forces surrender in Singapore, 12 Sep 1945. Read about it here!

Sources:

Website- cbi-theater.com

Wikipedia

Website- usace.army.mi, https://www.usace.army.mil/About/History/Historical-Vignettes/Chief-Of-Engineers/118-Japanese-Surrender/

Hayden Weller represents PHS at IMEA Orchestra Festival

November 12, 2025

By PHS Editorial Staff

It takes a special soul to play music. Congratulations to Hayden Weller for earning a spot in the Illinois Music Educators Association’s District 2 & 8 Orchestra Festival in Moline, Illinois. Orchestra teacher Jason Warner was able to watch Weller make Peoria proud at this event.

“This prestigious event brings together some of the most talented young musicians from across the region, and Hayden’s successful audition is a testament to hard work, dedication, and musical excellence,” said Warner. “We are proud to have Hayden represent Peoria High at this year’s festival and evening performance.”

Warner had a busy week last week, as did the rest of the PSA Team. Alongside Warner, band director Maura Shepherd, choir director Cassandra Osborn, dance coach Alaina Rice, and visual arts instructor Meredith Popp hosted 8th graders for their PSA auditions where over 200 students from 10 middle schools sent artists for PSA consideration.

Another great article by Tracy Riebel, '87 on just a few of our military alumni. It was written around Memorial Day as a Remembrance of those who have served. But it is just as important on this Veterans Days. Peoria High School has many military alumni. Many stories out there to be told. We wish we could capture all of those stories on their careers.

Stingy Oak Forest defense dooms Lions in the second half; Peoria’s season ends in the Elite 8

November 15, 2025

By Kyle Daubs

It was a great season, but it’s okay to want more.

It’s okay to have a hunger for greatness. That’s called pride. And when we come up short, it hurts. As Coach Montgomery said in the final huddle of the season, the next group will use this feeling to continue to better themselves for next year.

Unfortunately, the pride of the city’s triumphant football season came to a close on Saturday at Oak Forest after a 34-20 defeat. It was a season that featured a share of the Big 12 Conference championship, an Elite 8 appearance, and a group of seniors that played a huge hand in going a combined 18-6 these last two seasons.

The Lions overcame disaster to begin the game. Despite being stopped on their own 33-yard line with 10:19 in the first quarter, the defense held strong and held Oak Forest to a field goal. Peoria was not going to be denied on fourth down a second straight series and found themselves marching down the field to the Bengals’ 16-yard line.

The drive was highlighted with two fourth-down conversions and a big 27-yard run by Breon Greene, but a fumble on the following play kept the Lions scoreless in the first quarter.

After the Lions’ defense held strong once again, a shanked punt gave Peoria great field position on the 32-yard line, but once again, the offense was held in check. As Oak Forest looked to capitalize on great field position again, Damarion Zapata forced and recovered a fumble at the 2-yard line to give momentum back.

And with one play, the entire demeanor changed. A 98-yard touchdown reception by Dereon Mays sent the sideline into a frenzy. The two-point conversion to Kyiron Woodard was the cherry on top as the Lions led 8-3 with 3:57 in the half.

Nearly two minutes were shaved off the clock as Oak Forest marched down the field to take back the lead with a touchdown. With 1:55 remaining, two runs and a pass play set the Lions up on the 42-yard line. A 21-yard pass to Jaylen Rayford and a 19-yard pass to Mays set up the Lions with one final play in the half with 1.5 seconds on the clock.

With that play, the Lions went into halftime after a magnificent run by Greene to lead 14-10 at halftime.

The Bengals had the ball coming out of the half and burned a lot of clock before settling for a field goal with 5:54 in the third quarter. The Lions turned the ball over on downs with 2:31 left in the game, and the Bengals only needed about 60 seconds to score a touchdown to take the lead with a 50-yard strike in the air.

The biggest play of the game might have game on the following kickoff as Oak Forest recovered an onside kick, which was then converted into a touchdown with 11:54 left in the fourth quarter to lead 27-14.

However, the Lions were not out of life yet as a 43-yard pass to Woodard from Greene brought the game back into a one-score game.

After a defensive stop, the Lions’ defense was holding strong. With a third-and-long, the Lions stopped an Oak Forest ball carrier, but he was called for unnecessary roughness based on this tackle below.

With the 15 yards and a fresh set of downs, the Bengals converted a touchdown to take a two-score lead with four minutes remaining.

With 3:27 and a needed fourth-down conversion, the Lions were denied on their final offensive play with a tipped pass.

Peoria ends its season with a 9-3 record. The senior class was a part of three Elite 8 appearances in three seasons. Meanwhile, Oak Forest will take on Providence Catholic High School (New Lenox) in the Final Four and improved to 11-1 on the season.

Brien Dunphy & Matt Grimm

honored for contributions to IHSA cross country

November 11, 2025

By Kyle Daubs

Brien Dunphy is hanging up his Athletic Director shoes, but keep an eye out for him running around for a few Saturdays in the fall next year.

Peoria High’s favorite athletic director is retiring next month, but not before him and math teacher Matt Grimm, were honored by the IHSA for their efforts in running the IHSA Cross Country Championships at Detweiler Park.

For five decades, Peoria High has hosted the state cross country meet, which has been led by the likes of Peoria legends Bob Lacroix, Mike Lawless, Shawn Stever, and Dunphy for the past 11 years.

It takes an army to host the First to the Finish, Peoria High Invitational, and the cross country state finals.

Dunphy couldn’t have been more grateful for all of the volunteers and teams that helped run the meet.

Watch the full feature from Week 25 down below.

https://www.25newsnow.com/2025/11/10/peoria-highs-brien-dunphy-keeps-state-running-ihsa-cross-country-state-finals/

Fine arts showcases everything PHS has to offer

November 6, 2025

By PHS Editorial Team

The PHS Fine Arts program is not just drawing and making murals. That was on full display when the fine arts department showcased all of the talent it has to offer.

Art students from Meredith Popp, Joseph Orteza, Krin Bradbury-Peoples, and Ana Quijano displayed drawings and painting. Jason Warner’s orchestra put on a concert playing in unison. Alaina Rice’s dance team put together another fantastic performance. Maura Shepherd’s drumline put on a show, while Cassanda Osborn’s choir sang out their hearts.

Take a look at the photos from a wonderful fall showcase.

Image 11-10-25 at 1.44 PM

Image 11-10-25 at 2.02 PM (1)

Image 11-10-25 at 2.04 PM

Image 11-10-25 at 1.44 PM

1/6

The Alumni Association accepts donations throughout the year. For those that have donated, we thank you so very much. We hope you can do so again. Our final campaign runs from September 2025 to January 2026. It's purpose is to continue the Alumni Association programs and support to those students continuing to pursue vocational and undergraduate degrees.

Join the 1856 Campaign: Honoring the Legacy of

Peoria High School

On May 5, 1856, Peoria High School opened its doors and began a tradition of excellence that has endured for over a century and a half. As the oldest high school in Illinois, Peoria High has stood as a pillar of education, resilience, and achievement, shaping the lives of generations of students who went on to make lasting contributions in their communities, throughout our state, and across the nation.

Now, the Peoria High School Alumni Association invites you to honor that proud history and help secure its future through the 1856 Campaign.

Why the 1856 Campaign?

The campaign name reflects more than just the founding date of our historic school—it represents a living legacy. For over 165 years, Peoria High graduates have distinguished themselves as leaders, innovators, and citizens who embody the values of hard work, service, and integrity. From local community builders to national figures, our alumni have carried the Peoria High spirit into every walk of life.

The Alumni Association exists to preserve this legacy, strengthen connections among graduates, and support current students as they pursue their own paths to success. But to continue this important mission, we need your support.

How Your Gift Helps

Your contribution to the 1856 Campaign will:

Support Alumni Programs – Strengthening the bond between generations of Lions.
Preserve History – Ensuring the stories, traditions, and pride of Peoria High live on.
Invest in the Future – Helping the next generation of Peoria High students carry forward the school’s tradition of excellence.

Be Part of the Legacy

When you give to the 1856 Campaign, you’re not just making a donation—you’re investing in a legacy that began nearly 170 years ago and continues to thrive today. Every dollar honors the past, enriches the present, and inspires the future.

We invite all alumni, families, and friends of Peoria High to join us in this important effort. Together, we can ensure that the roar of the Lions will be heard for generations to come.

Donate Today

Join us in honoring the proud legacy of Peoria High School. Make your gift to the 1856 Campaign and help write the next chapter in our school’s remarkable story.