Alexander Haig, 1924-2010

Former Secretary of State, Alexander Haig, died yesterday. According to Wikipedia:

Haig was a United States Army general who served as the United States Secretary of State under President Ronald Reagan and White House Chief of Staff under Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford. In 1973 Haig served as Vice Chief of Staff of the Army, the number-two ranking officer in the Army. Haig served as the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, commanding all U.S. and NATO forces in Europe. A veteran of the Korean War and Vietnam War, Haig was a recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star with oak leaf cluster, and the Purple Heart.

I think that this Haig quote is an indication of why he rose to the highest levels of leadership in our country - both in military and government service.

"Practice rather than preach. Make of your life an affirmation, defined by your ideals, not the negation of others. Dare to the level of your capability then go beyond to a higher level."

I like the focus on doing rather than talking.. on affirming your ideals and going beyond your limitations. My prayers are with his friends and family.