I first met Deb when she was a Senior Compliance Officer many years ago,
Which now seems like a blur from my past.
Now after 31 years with the USDA, she will be retiring soon, so I just wanted to bestow
My good thoughts about her and all she has done and amassed.
My memory goes back when I first worked with her
On some special investigation or project we were trying to write.
I can recall all our “lively” discussions but at the end, of course, we both concurred;
For we always put the good of the Agency primarily forthright.
Now I’ve been told that the measure of a good person is not how much money, or power you have while you’re here,
But what kind of a footprint you leave behind that won’t disappear.
Well, Deb you’ve done much for FSIS, and should be quite proud you made this place
A little better than you found it, and your legacy will be hard to replace.
Good Luck in retirement, Deb!
Robert Collazo, 10/30/10
Just wanted to say how much your kind words mean to me. It was so special that you not only have such nice thoughts for me but also took the time to put them into a very heartwarming poem. Your poem expressed my own personal reason for continuing 31 years of doing what I do for FSIS. It is all about the people! I have dedicated my life to the consumer but my FSIS family holds a special place in my heart. As I move forward on my next life path it is friends like you that I will remember and be so grateful that I was given the opportunity to pass through your life. Thanks for everything you have given to me and as always “stay safe out there”.
I’m glad you liked it, Deb. I’m like you, so thank-full that I’ve had the opportunity to meet such wonderful people in our years working for Uncle Sam. Again, thanks for all your great work!