On the occasion of Rocky’s Memorial

Of the many wonderful qualities I identify with Rocky, it seems to me that "service to others" is the most fundamental. For some, service is something to do. For Rocky, service was an essential part of who he was. From my perspective, service was his first instinct.

I think we all have visions that, when we pass from this life, we will have left some mark on the people in our lives, that we will be remembered. Rocky need not worry about falling short in that regard, for I'm certain he has touched a multitude of lives throughout his life - both directly and indirectly. Ever vigilant for those in need, Rocky filled up the world around him with compassion, a sense of fairness in the face of an unfair world, courage to do right for others, when not doing so would be so much easier.

Distributing toys to children at Christmas, campaigning for shelter for the homeless, protecting neighborhoods for families and community, protecting comrades in arms at his own peril, protecting our nation from our enemies - from the smallest gesture of kindness to dramatic acts of courage in the face of mortal danger, Rocky made his mark and so many of us have benefited.

And then there is the second critical foundation of Rocky's persona - Family. I've known few people with such a strong commitment to his family. It was through family that I know Rocky and from the start it was clear that he adored Candace. Together, they seemed to complement each other so well. And when Chase was born, Rocky was beside himself with joy. My guess is that he never thought he would be a father and the love and pride he felt for both Chase and Candace was so very evident. It was beautiful to witness this leader and patriot so moved by emotion. He loved you both so. In so many ways, you completed him.

Candace - on more than one private occasion, he confessed to me such love for you, such awe and reverence for the mother you had become. He worried that he would never be able to thank you enough for all that you meant to him.

Chase - you have chosen to start your adult life in the military. And while your Dad might kid you relentlessly for your choice of Army over Marines, don't you ever doubt for a second his enormous love and pride in you and the man you are becoming.

I, for one, find inspiration in Rocky's natural leadership and sense of service. I find it sometimes helpful, when faced with a difficult decision, to ask myself, "what would Rocky do?" Perhaps that's the very best way in which he lives on with me, perhaps with all of us.