The time between this column and the last one posted here is the longest time between columns in the more than two year life of this blog. The reason is very simple. My father-in-law died a week ago and I have been mourning the passing of not only a man I loved, but an American Hero.

For those of you who come here for future oriented commentary on what is going on in the world, this will be a departure. However as we are now entering a new age that seems filled with upheaval and yet provides an opportunity for human transformation, I submit that taking a look at a life lived by a man who had a strong moral compass, deep compassion, a profound love of this country and a fierce commitment to excellence, might well serve as a sign post for all of us as we face our future.

The most succinct way to introduce him is through his own words. My father-in-law had achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor a Boy Scout could attain, at the early age of 16. When my son also reached this milestone by his 18th birthday he realized that he needed to invite an Eagle Scout to initiate him into this rank of honor. My son asked me if “The General” as he referred to my father-in-law, might be willing to stand up for him at the Eagle Scout induction ceremony. He asked me this because he was nervous to ask …