Dean Eppler
Blackie was my First Sergeant when I was a very young 1st Lieutenant Company Commander at Fort Carson, CO. He was a first rate teacher for a young officer who was in over his head, and his loyal service made me look far better than I had a right to expect. So many of the lessons he taught me resonate today, and he is still keeping me in one piece 40 years after we last saw each other. First Sergeant - rest in peace - you earned it many times over!
Dean Eppler