I met your beloved, Top in 1996.  He was my son, Zane’s ROTC instructor at Chugiak High School.  To say he made a lasting impression on Zane and all the students he touched is an understatement.  I’ll never forget his presence and all encompassing love he showed me when Zane passed.  Rest in Peace dear Top.

It’s only today that I learned you had passed. I just wanted to say thank you for inspiring me and instilling the grit and resolve I have to this day. Thank you as a student, a friend and Canadian ally. My heart still partly belongs to Alaska and to the Marine Corps. I can only hope I’ve maintained your respect in 15 years of service to the Canadian Armed Forces. Thank you. Semper Fi