What made you decide to join the Army?

I attended Virginia Military Institute and came out of ROTC with a commission. I was only going to spend two years in the Army, but I found I enjoyed what I was doing, and it provided me with opportunities I thought I’d never have. I wound up staying in 28 years.

How did you get involved with the National World War II Memorial Project?

One day I was talking with another colonel, and he mentioned he had a friend who was working on the World War II Memorial Project, and they were looking to hire someone. I knew then I had to interview for the job. Six months earlier, I had attended a transition course that helps prepare you for retirement. When they asked what my perfect second-career job would be, I wrote, “Working on the World War II Memorial.”

Did anyone in your family serve in World War II?

My dad and my father-in-law, who both have passed away, were World War II veterans. It was clearly an important part of their lives and shaped them in many ways, particularly my father-in-law, who got married while stationed in Britain.

What has this project brought to your life?

Other than my marriage, my kids, and my faith, this is probably the most important thing I’ve ever done. This isn’t just a veterans’ memorial. It’s about recognizing the whole nation’s participation in World War II. It’s also about leaving a message for future generations that reminds them about the price of freedom and how sometimes you have to make sacrifices in order to preserve that freedom.

How will you feel once the memorial is dedicated?

I think I’ll feel a great deal of personal satisfaction just being able to walk down the Mall and put my hand on the memorial and say, “I had something to do with this.”

What’s next for you?

I always look to be a part of something bigger than myself. If I can carry on with an association that pays tribute to veterans, I’d really enjoy that.