Posted by Tom Wenneson on August 8, 2005:

I came to know Doug as my Commander when he was at Rucker in 1991. He was in command of the Apache training company. Although he was my commander, he was much more than my boss. I've read the other comments from those who knew him better and can say they have captured the essence of a man who could create joy in the environment around him, regardless of the circumstances. I've never enjoyed working for someone more and those two years were the most satisfying of my 9 years in service. I often think of the time that I brought to work one of those optical art illusion posters with the hidden computer image inside. If you stared long enough and in the right way, an image would appear. These were new at the time and after I figured it out and showed the other Instructors, Doug came in the office and asked what we were doing. After I explained things, he set about trying to see the image within. In spite of all our tips and encouragement, he was unable to see the picture and he then finally said (with a smile of course). "If you guys can see something inside that poster - you're all grounded!!" and then walked out of the room, with all of us in stitches laughing. Doug is one of the last folks I'd expect to pass away so young. At the same time, he lived more in his short life than many will in 90+ years. I see his life as a challenge to live more fully and more joyfully. Doug, thanks for the wonderful example. Jenny, please accept our condolences and prayers. Tom and Anne Wenneson

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