US Lacrosse, the Baltimore-based national governing body of men's and women's lacrosse, has announced a $4.5 million bequest — the largest gift in the organization's history — from A. Norman Webb, Jr., a member of the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame.

Webb, who died in August 2004, had a distinguished career in service to his country. He was one of the most decorated combat officers in his West Point class, and his much-decorated military career included two tours in Vietnam and one in Korea.

At West Point, Webb was a two-time All-America lacrosse goalie and received the Sidney M. Cone Award as the nation's outstanding goalie in 1963 and 1964; he was also an honorable mention All-America selection in 1962. After his playing career was over, Webb gave back to the sport, starting club and collegiate teams in northern and southern California. Considered the "godfather" of San Diego lacrosse, he played a leading role in helping the sport spread to the West Coast and was inducted into the lacrosse hall of fame in 1983.

"Norm was a leader and selfless contributor in so many ways throughout his life," said US Lacrosse executive director Steve Stenersen. "Norm's gift will enable us to expand national programming, bolster our modest endowment, and potentially help provide a solution to our current facility challenges. It's wonderful that his legacy will be a source of motivation and support for many years to come."

"Lacrosse played an integral role in Norm Webb's life, and he spent much of his life giving back to the sport," said Pat Dillon, chair of the US Lacrosse board. "This gift will allow the sport he loved so dearly to continue to prosper. We are extremely grateful for his generosity and devotion."