Remembering Tony Snow

Yesterday our Nation lost one of our finest leaders, Tony Snow, who passed away at age 53 after a long struggle with cancer. Tony was a man who was deeply committed to his faith, family, and to his fellow man. Tony also passionately supported our men and women serving in uniform and was deeply moved anytime he had the opportunity to speak with them and hear the stories of their bravery and sacrifice.

I had the honor of communicating with Tony on a weekly basis while I was assigned to the Multi-National Force-Iraq (MNF-I) as the chief spokesman. During this extraordinarily challenging period of time Tony continually provided me, and everyone else, with a renewed sense of pride in our mission. As a personal friend and mentor, he was an adamant supporter of our efforts to communicate all that was being accomplished by the Coalition Force and the Iraqi people during a very tumultuous period in our Nation's history. Even though his own health was failing, he provided us in Iraq with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm every time we spoke.

Tony leaves behind a loving wife, Jill and three beautiful children, son Robbie and daughters, Kendall and Kristi. I would ask each of you to keep Jill and the children in your thoughts and prayers.

He also leaves behind a legacy of character in leadership, compassion for the hurting, and commitment to serving others. Each of us who had the honor of knowing him has been deeply enriched by his friendship.

I think the following clip by Bret Baier, Fox News correspondent, summarizes the enduring legacy Tony left behind for us all.

George Washington once said "Few men have virtue to withstand the highest bidder."

Tony Snow was one of those few men.

Bill Caldwell