West Point was extremely generous to me. In return for my best efforts, it shaped the path of my life.
It was the meritocracy where so many gifted men were challenged to perform. My awe at the abilities and integrity of our classmates began from day one, as did the realization that we were all the beneficiaries of a special gift – to become a part of the Long Gray Line and a band of brothers like no other. The title “classmate” became a term of deep respect and admiration.
That bond, consecrated by the blood of classmates on the battlefield, continues today as does the call to duty to our great country. But, as anyone who has faced combat knows, we fight not merely for flag and country – but for each other.
In the end West Point is not a place – it is an ideal shared by men – and a life-long journey to reach that end.
Wayne represents the best of us. I wish he was running the country. A brilliant yet modest person.