Willie made it home this evening – he walked in the door and gave me a really long hug and then C too. We moved to the living room and he immediately began telling me about his week. The initial word that came to mind to describe his details was “debrief”. Before he got too far along he paused and started recording, so that he can remember. It is quite remarkable the honor that was displayed for Leslie. So many processions and fire fighters and police officers honoring him. Willie’s days were full – the goal was to honor Leslie as well as they could and take care of the crew – from what it sounded like, they accomplished that here in Minnesota. Midway through his story we went outside to lower our flag to half mast. The governor declared them to be flown at half mast starting today for five days in honor of Leslie. Willie learned the proper way to lower them earlier at the hotel he and the rest were staying at as they got to help lower it this morning. I stood by while he lowered, raised, and then lowered the flag. We then went in and he continued his story. I’m glad he was the person here as the liaison to the crew – he was the right person for the job. When we were talking about the processions I thought it was rather fitting that at least one vehicle in the long line had Alaska plates.

I’m glad to have Willie home, and I am thankful for the opportunity he had to take care of Leslie and his crew.