David Gardner Binney

West Point, 1964

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Steven J. Binney on October 17, 2008:

Our family wishes to thank everyone for all their thoughts and prayers that have been extended to us during this very shocking and very sad time. Since October 4th, my brother and I discovered that my Dad was working on his memoir. My Dad wanted his grandchildren to know who he was. As he wondered about his ancestors. Carolyn, my brother and I wanted to share the first paragraph with you as you can see below. ~ This is not a dress rehearsal ~ "I begin this memo with a motto that I used my entire adult life. For those people who read this after I am gone, I hope that it will generate in you a philosophy of life, to do everything you want to do because you will not be given a second chance. This life you have is the only one you are going to get. So, make the most of it. It is what I tried to do in my life. I hope you enjoy your life as much as I enjoyed mine..." My Dad asked the question: "Will they remember anything that I loved doing?" Dad loved sailing, fly-fishing, skiing, classical music, Camp Sankaty, golfing with his brothers, traveling the world and walking on the South Carolina beaches with Carolyn. He loved to laugh and smile. He loved Popham Beach, Maine. Popham Beach was one of the most memorable places for my Dad, and many other family members and friends who went up there with him. One can't think of Popham Beach without thinking of my father. Watching him read or walk on the beach, work on the Coast Guard Station or the Pilot House, and watching him make lobster feasts for everyone are just a few. My Dad cherished his friendships and doing things for people. I adored most his pride for his accomplishments. He was proud to have attended West Point and loved his West Point, Army and Vietnam friends. He was very proud of the FBI and his FBI friends. He loved what he did and was proud. Dad, your grand children will know about your enthusiasm for life. They will know about your service and dedication to your country and your love of your family. I will also tell them what you were to me as a father and will try to model my fathering after yours. Dad, you were my Hero, my mentor, a coach, a friend, a great Dad, and a wonderful PopPop. I thank you for your forgiveness and unwavering love. I will never forget your grin, your love for me and Geoff, and your love for your Grandchildren. I love you and will miss you dearly.

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