Remembering Mike!

I have had the pleasure of knowing Mike for 21 years. We met in 1989, when I was hired at Walter Reed. Mike took me under his wing, showed me the ropes and I learned so much from him. I am thankful to have had such a great person to mentor me during my career.

I look back over the last 21 years and there are so many memories…
The first time Mike sent me to the grocery store, the only thing he had written on the list was, and I quote “2 pieces of cheese and 2 pieces of ham.” These items were exactly enough to make his sandwiches for that meal. It was on trips like these that I would grab some extra so he and I could eat together. Granted these grocery trips were only required when we weren’t indulging at the Roy Rogers that used to be nearby. On Friday nights, Mike and I would go to the NCO club on post to perform safety inspections and ensure that the fire doors were not locked. We always took the time to grab a bite to eat, drink a few sodas, sit back, relax and listen to some music. It is when I remember moments like these that I can’t help but smile.


When Mike made Captain I knew right away that I wanted to be part of his crew. I worked with Mike both at the main station and at Forest Glen. Our crew was the first to complete a shift in our new station at Forest Glen. That first shift was bittersweet… It was nice to have something new but at the same time it was hard to leave the old station. That crew consisted of Hawse, Pope, Shrub, Elkins, Mike & I…. We were and will FOREVER be known as The Outlaws!


Work was important to Mike but his family was as well. Mike would always update me and let me know how his daughter, Angela was doing in tennis and where the next tournament would be. Mike always tried to make sure he could be there; I know it meant a lot to him.


Mike was a great mentor & Captain but most of all a great person. He will surely be missed by his fellow brothers and sisters in the Fire Department. I want thank Mike’s family for sharing one of the most wonderful people in the world with us!