A Lion

We knew this day was coming when nearly 15 months ago the diagnosis confirmed the worst. Brain cancer had stricken the last of the Kennedy boys. Today a family, a Commonwealth, and an entire nation mourns. Think and say what you want about the man. Love or loath him, his legislative impact over 47 years was historic and his impact on health care and a myriad of other social issues will not soon fade.

I had a unique opportunity to meet Senator Kennedy in 2005 when I was the Military Aide to the First District Commander. We met the Senator in his office in the Federal Building named after his slain brother, the 35th President of the United States. I had seen the Senator before in passing but never had the opportunity to meet with him.

I was anxious as we waited in his lobby. A long time aide who had been with the Senator for over thirty years ushered us into his office. Senator Kennedy walked over with a crooked yet brisk gate to greet us. His years were catching up with his body but his mind was still razor sharp. He was cordial, warm, and almost jovial in welcoming us. I think he knew for the next hour he could talk shop; about his love of the water, the military, and convey his passion for issues we were to discuss.

Before we sat down he slung his blazer on the back of his chair, exposing the coolest set of suspenders you or I have ever seen. He asked us to join him at the window that looked over Boston Harbor. It was a big office so the walk allowed me a few moments to peer upon the photos on the walls. It was much like a history museum adorned with pictures of the All-American family.

He approached the window like a teacher at a chalkboard, pointing to various locations where his father once worked and where his brother once lived. It was then I realized that standing next to me was a living, breathing piece of American history.

When we talked I sat in the chair immediately to his right. This was the Admiral’s meeting and my job was to listen and learn. But I couldn’t help myself. I told the Senator I was from the Vineyard and we talked about sailing in the Sound, the Sox, and Island life. It was beyond cool.

He engaged me with the verbose of an old friend even though he had only known me for sheer minutes. We took a picture together before departing but I’ve never seen it. I wonder if it still exists? It would be a lifetime’s keepsake. Needless to say I was in awe during our meeting and it’s one of the memories that drove me to run for public office. I’ve had the privilege and honor of meeting a number of public officials as part of my military and public service work. None stood out quite like Ted Kennedy. He was indeed a lion.