To assess the impact of West Point on me, I conclude that the guiding influence was from the classmates with whom I had the most association. A-2 mates and those that I served with over my career. Always present was the deep-seated motivation to honor, or to in no way discredit my Class or West Point. All in all, that motivation made me a better person. I treasure and honor those relationships formed at West Point.
As a soldier, I was privileged to associate with the best citizens our nation produces – soldiers and families – who for long or short periods of their lives, strove to transcend focus on self and lived for the greater cause of service to our nation. For the most part, my West Point classmates and I lived in a time when the threat to the nation was real. We endeavored always to bring our West Point values to all aspects of our lives.
I have, for some time now, been enjoying the “fruits of liberty” sowed by our national abundance, character, creativity and productivity. My optimism for the future is fueled by the knowledge that there are still young Americans who endeavor to join the ranks of “The Long Gray Line” and follow the path from West Point wherever it may lead.
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