And I'm actually pretty damn bummed about it.
His predecessor was a box-checking clock-puncher with no ambition or vision. He came in and completely set his directorate on a 180. Our state is now the state others states come to for advice. He chaired the national advisory committee of the states and territories to NGB. He has been a trendsetter.
On a personal note when I proposed my redesigns he heard me out. If we differed in opinions he always allowed me to argue my case without regard to our differences in rank and would often allow me my preferred course of action if I could show I had puzzled-out the contingencies. Because of his advocacy solutions I have developed have been picked up by over 20 states and NGB. He never once viewed me by my educational credentials -- or rather lack thereof -- but only for my abilities.
To say I owe this man a tremendous personal debt would be to understate the proposition. For the first time in my life I feel like I have direction and am doing something worthwhile.
I am grateful.
I will miss him.
He has earned his reward more than most in this world and I am glad he will be spending his time with his wife and kids.
Oh...and tonight we filled his office with 500 balloons
