Foreword: The first issue of the Bapstonian comes off the press with two main contentions: namely, that a year book should contain a factual record of the year and its activities, and that such a record should be arranged in as pleasing a manner as possible. Concerning these points, the book must be its own witness. We have deliberately been sparing in our words. We did not want a volume that was a victim of verbosity; but, rather, one that would be concise, compact, and worthy of congratulation.

Farewell: The time has come when we, the class of '45, must bid farewell to our Alma Mater, John Bapst High. For four pleasant years we have served her to our utmost, and now we must go forth to put into practice what we have learned. We have been privileged to enjoy a good Catholic educa-tion. Let us show our gratitude for all that we have received, by going forth courageously into the world to live a good, upright life. But first we must finish the strenuous job of defeating our nation's enemies. This will not be an easy task, but, guided by the splendid example of former Bapst men now in the service, and fortified by the principles of right living which we have garnered here, we shall be successful. When the war is over, let us return to civilian life and do our part in bringing peace to a hate-filled world. We, the men of tomorrow, the back-bone of this country, must carry more than our share of the burden of preserving freedom and democracy. Farewell, then, to our school, to the faculty and the students. Let us hope and pray that we shall be worthy representatives of John Bapst High School. --Francis Ryder '45

Outlook for Seniors: This year the outlook for the Senior boys is quite limited. Most of the heretofore "Railbirds" are to be hereafter "GI" Joe's. Some of the radiant personalities who have graced the halls of this institute of secondary learning have already answered the call, and are now serving in Uncle Sam's armed forces. There is a representative of '44 in every branch of the service. There are a few, and only a few, who will go to college. Another group will go to college at the expense of the government, but for the greater majority, there will be training in any number of trades. Everything from cooking a five course meal, to repairing a "Walkie-Talkie", is taught in all branches of the services. To this training most of the seniors look forward, for not only will they be serving their country now, but they will have a trade with which to serve society better in the years to come.

Dedication: We gratefully dedicate this final issue of the “Purple and White" for the scholastic year, 1942-1943, to the John Bapst men and women now serving with the armed forces of their country, to keep then informed on school events as well as to have them know that our thoughts and prayers are always with them. We have chronicled for their interest everything of importance that has transpired at their Alma mater during the scholastic year now coming to a close. We want our boys in the “colors” to know that we are proud of them, and of their devotion and loyalty to school and to country.

Foreword: It is the most earnest desire of the members of the faculty that the graduates of this class of 1931 may be blessed with an abundance of happiness and success in the positions to which God assigns them in life. The passing years will bring cares and difficulties. Life's problems will bring moments of anxiety and concern. But if the lessons of fidelity and industry, taught in the classroom, are carried into life, cares and anxieties will be tempered with the joy of duty fully accomplished and rewarded with the happiness of success.