Posted by Phil Cooper on December 28, 2013:

I am now my father's age when he commissioned me as a 2LT in the USAF. It was 11 May 84 at the Student Union Building at the University of Idaho in Moscow Idaho. That's when dad stopped aging. Time stopped when it came to my beloved father aging while I was gone for those 21 years. Yes, I came home on leave but did not notice the graying hair, the crows feet from his constant smiling and the slightly bowed legs. Throughout the years when I called for advice he would pick up the phone and say "Coopers". I never expected that to end, as if he would always be there. His most valuable advice to me just before I departed for my first duty assignment was "Keep your eyes open, mouth shut and a copy of everything". That worked well for me all the way to the day he officiated in BDUs at my retirement ceremony. He captivated the attending troops with his words of profound wisdom and left them knowing they were "The Front Line" between good and evil for this great nation. He treated everyone he met with respect and kindness, was a professional soldier and a great humanitarian who loved his family. I will miss him terribly and will never be half the man he was. I love you dad.

admin