06/28/2025
This morning, FFA Camp came to a close with a powerful speech from Army Colonel Don Koonce. I’ve spent hours trying to find the right words to express the magnitude of what we were privileged to hear, but even now, I’m still left speechless.
Colonel Koonce, a retired Army officer, addressed the entire camp for what he knows will be the last time—after 20 years of speaking here. He shared his thoughts through what he called "stories," each one carrying a message that came down to four simple principles: Live well. Love well. Lead well. Leave well.
That final phrase—leave well—hit especially hard. Colonel Koonce hinted, with quiet honesty, that he is dying. In his own words, “A dying man will speak more honestly than a man who thinks he has tomorrow.”
Though somber, his words lit a fire in the hearts of everyone listening. He spoke of his Soldiers—those who served under him, both the living and the fallen. His patriotism was unwavering, his warrior ethos undeniable, and yet his gentleness shone through.
It was an honor to shake his hand and a privilege to hear his words. My only regret is that I couldn’t record the entire speech.
