In Memoriam

I don't think there is a more fitting obituary than the one written by Scott Ott:

Obituary: President Reagan Dies at 93

(2004-06-05) -- Former U.S. President Ronald Wilson Reagan died at home this afternoon at the age of 93, after a decade-long journey with Alzheimer's disease.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy, three children and several hundred million men, women and children in the former Soviet Union, and around the world, who were set free from the hopeless terror of communist tyranny through his steadfast courage and unwavering faith.

In addition to recordings and transcripts of dozens of the most compelling, sincere and influential speeches ever heard, President Reagan also leaves behind an America that is no longer afraid to call evil what it is, and to do something about it.

I spent a good deal of my childhood with President Reagan leading this country of ours. He was the first president I truly remember (I entered this life during Nixon's resignation speech, and all I remember of President Carter when he was in office was his vaguely freakish smile). While I didn't understand politics at that age, I did recognize something different about President Reagan. It was his sense of duty and knowledge of "right vs. wrong" that set him apart in my eyes. It was the fact, that even with his strange bumblings, he lead this country. He had faith in his fellow countrymen, and reminded us all of the greatness that we can achieve if we put our hearts and minds to it.

President Reagan, while I didn't understand your contributions to the world at the time, I am honored to have been around while you served your country.

Rest well, for your duty is done.