Saturday, July 21, 2018
It is with great sadness that I recently learned of the death of my former mentor, supervisor and colleague, Greg Ferguson. I had known Greg since the 1980's, due to our employment at Fort Drum, NY. At the time, I was the Quality Assurance Inspector for firearms and ordnance at Fort Drum. I met Greg, and many of his co-workers and subordinates, when I was assigned to conduct initial firearms qualification for the installation's newly-hired civilian law enforcement personnel.
Over the decades that I was associated with Greg, I was impressed with his knowledge, attitude, and professionalism. More than a decade later, I became a civilian police officer at Fort Drum. I served under Greg and Joseph Margrey (then-Chief of Law Enforcement) in various positions. Following the events of 9/11/2001, expansion of the civilian police force took place. I was later appointed to the position of Training Director of the newly-formed Department of the Army Civilian Police Academy at Fort Drum. Several years later I was promoted to Chief of the Law Enforcement Division, after Joe Margrey had been promoted above me.
While serving under Greg's tenure, I had the opportunity to know him as a wise leader and mentor. As Director of Emergency Services, his mandate was the safety and security of the Fort Drum installation. He carried out his duties with great passion; always supporting the men and women who worked for him. He was passionate about protecting the soldiers, family members, and infrastructure of Fort Drum.
It may seem impolite to mention this in my remembrance, but Greg always stood up for his beliefs; he never took any "you know what!" from ANYONE, no matter their rank or position. Having established the highest standards for the Directorate of Emergency Services, Greg moved on to tackle other critical positions and assignments for the Fort Drum Community.
Greg was a true leader. I would have followed him into battle anywhere, and I always knew that he had everyone's safety and security as his prime mandate. He will be truly missed by all those who knew him and were associated with him. But even more importantly, his legacy of principled leadership will live on...long after his passing.
It is common for our recently deceased friends and family to be praised and appreciated for who they were (and are). I have asked God to bless Greg's soul; but that makes me mindful of the fact that I have already been blessed with knowing him as the caring professional he was. He is truly missed.
One final word; Greg, I followed you here on Earth. It will be an honor to be rejoined with you some day. God Bless you and your family.