Ernest Dichmann Peek

At West Point in 1901

Peek was born on November 19, 1878, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Peek graduated 4th in his class at the United States Military Academy on February 18, 1901, and joined the Corps of Engineers.[1][2] Then he served in Philippines during the Philippine Insurrection, where he was assigned to the road and wharf construction units. Peek was decorated with the Silver Star for gallantry in action against the Moros during this service.[2][3]

In 1906 he would be assigned to Yellowstone National Park to help with engineering projects. From 1912 to 1926 he would supervise improvements of the harbor on Lake Superior and was also in charge of the building of Lock and Dam No. 1, Mississippi River.

During World War I, Peek served with 21st Engineers within American Expeditionary Force in France. For his service during the war, he was awarded with Army Distinguished Service Medal and with Legion of Honour by the Government of France.[1][3]

Following the war he was assigned to the Panama Canal Zone. He would attend the Babson Institute in 1927 and later obtain a L.L.D. from the University of Wyoming College of Law. In 1929 he was assigned to New York City to work on rivers and harbors. He was named a brigade commander at Fort Francis E. Warren in 1937.

In 1940 he was named commander of the 9th Corps Area. Peek retired in 1942 due to physical disability.[2] He was the last remaining member of the class of 1901 to serve on active duty.

Peek died at his home in San Francisco, California on April 22, 1950.[2] He is buried with his wife, Ann Ryan Peek (1885–1971), at Arlington National Cemetery.[4]

Below is the ribbon bar of Major General Peek: