Steven Michael Strickland

West Point, 1975

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Jim Gerberman on January 23, 2005:

A long overdue eulogy for Steven Michael Strickland: Now begins a year that represents thirty years since our graduation from the school that has formed a substantial part of our being, our character, and most importantly, has provided the most meaningful and lasting friendships of our lives. It will also mark twenty-five years since Steven's life was cut short. I am fortunate to have known and to have become close friends with Steven during and after our years at West Point. Without a doubt, he is one of the most complete, intriguing, and hard to describe people that I have ever known. Many times have I considered what Steven's life might have been- there seems to be such unfulfilled promise. Those of us who knew him well enjoyed a richness of perspective seldom seen otherwise. Having just yesterday seen the movie "Sideways" with Candy- my wife and lifelong friend, who also was and is a big "Steve Strickland fan", I reflect on the words of Miles who was attempting to describe his passion for pinot noir, by saying: "And only the most patient and nurturing growers can do it really, can tap into Pinot?s most fragile, delicate qualities. Only when someone has taken the time to truly understand its potential can Pinot be coaxed into its fullest expression. And when that happens, its flavors are the most haunting and brilliant and subtle and thrilling and ancient on the planet..." Obviously Miles was speaking of more than wine...his words seem to describe a type of friendship that is truly rare and unique. Rest well my friend.

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