Greeted with a firm handshake, Mike immediately turned his undivided attention to me. His quiet demeaner, his humility, the soft cadence of his words made me feel at home from the first time that I met him. Well, at least I think he was focused on me and not on his favorite guide dog. He waited somewhat patiently and finally asked permission to meet Aurelia. From the first time we met, I discovered so many amazing layers to this humble man.

A Seattle native, Mike attended Washington State University and later earned his Master's Degree in Education from the University of North Carolina. He owned and operated an agricultural flying service in Fort Scott, Kan., and served as a pilot in the Coast Guard flying C130s, Dassault Falcon jets, and H60 Jayhawk helicopters. Mike also managed Search and Rescue Operations in Alaska among many other levels of leadership. Mike may have retired as a Commander in 1996 after 20 years in the service but he continues to serve and honor those who are currently serving and the veterans that gave so much to our country. He serves on the boards of the King County Municipal League, Camp Patriot, and Be Kind Snoqualmie Valley. Mike also happens to work for my favorite football team and has served as the Vice President of Outreach and External Affairs for the Seahawks since 1997.

Mike has been awarded the Outstanding Service to Veterans from the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs, Person of the Year from the United Negro College Fund, and "I Care About Kids" award from Mentoring Works Washington.

Take some time to listen and get to know the person that I consider to be a great friend, he is dog approved and one of the most compassionate people I have met.