With the nation’s attention focused on mourning Michael Jackson, Farah Fawcett and Ed McMahon I want to take a second to remember a little known national hero who died tragically this week. Major General David Wherley, my former commander with the DC National Guard, and his wife, Ann Wherley, were killed in the DC metro accident on Monday. While Wherley’s accomplishments with the DC National Guard were numerous, one story in particular brings tears to my eyes.
Last December, General Wherley introduced a combat wounded soldier in front of the DC National Guard. Wherley told us that he had routinely visited this soldier at Walter Reed Hospital and had been told by the doctors that due to his injuries this soldier would never walk again. To everyone’s surprise and in spite of this dire prediction, the soldier walked to greet General Wherley. It was a moment I will never forget and I saw the General start to tear up. Seeing my commander care so deeply for a member of the rank and file truly inspired me. General Wherley retired soon after the ceremony.
What I didn’t know was that even after he retired, he still visited this soldier on a regular basis. He made it his personal responsibility to continue to care for one of his former soldiers. Sometimes he would even bring his wife along. I admired this type of quiet service. Tragically, as General Wherley and his wife were heading out Monday to visit with this soldier, the metro car they were riding in struck another train killing them instantly.
My thoughts and prayers go out to this couple who dedicated their life to service. I believe their works in this world will carry them to a better place. As much of the country tunes in for Thriller videos and Charlie’s Angels re-runs, I hope they will also take a moment to remember General Wherley for teaching us what it means to be a leader in these times.
Patrick Campbell, an Iraq veteran, serves as IAVA's Chief Legislative Counsel in Washington, D.C.