Affectionately known as Pappa Cheese,Tony was the essence of what it means to be a true friend and respected leader. I first knew him at his last duty station in Pax River supporting the new E-6 program. He later became my co-worker and close friend at Eagle. Together we conquered some near impossible challenges. Many was the time we spent weekends and worked all night writing proposals for new contracts. His first week at Eagle, he worked around the clock to win a Lakehurst New Jersey logistics support effort. Linda was not happy to say the least, so we sent her roses to calm her down and get her forgiveness. Another time, Tony, Linda, and I went to a five year celebration party at Lakehurst. Tony had a few too many and we could not find him. We searched everywhere and finally found him at the bar in a happy-go-lucky mood with a big smile and his necktie hanging from his forehead. Linda was once again a unhappy camper and escorted him with his tie in hand to their room while chastising him every step of the way. And finally there was the time we went on travel together and had to share a room. Was I ever shocked when he began snoring. It sounded like a bear had wondered into the other bed. After an hour of covering my ears with two pillows, I gave up and slept in the car.
On a serious note, Tony was a consummate professional who quietly and effectively handled all situations. You could always count on him for solid advice or a stern kick in the butt when you needed it. Many a time he put me on the right road when I was about to stray. He was the calm in the storm with his disarming smile and witty sense of humor. He was well liked and loved by all that knew him, peers and subordinates alike. Regardless of what I did, he had my back and sung my praises to put me on a pedestal, even when I did not deserve it. He was also there as a personal friend, lending a hand to help me with all the little jobs it took to get into a new house I bought close to him and Linda. Women shop at Belk's and Tony and I spent hours on end shopping at Loews. I will miss my BEST FRIEND and never forget the many good and memorable times we shared.
Rest in God's arms my freind, you deserve it.
Don Peeling