ADM Arleigh Burke

This photograph was given to my grandmother upon decommissioning of USS LeRay Wilson

The writing says, "To the officers and men of the USS L. Wilson in appreciation of their loyalty, enthusiasm, and hard work for this wonderful Navy of ours. Arleigh Burke"

"We need men and women who by their personal integrity, their sense of moral purpose and their acceptance of the requirement for hard work will exemplify the best in the leadership traditions of the Navy and of our country. This is not `just another program.' Nor is it a project to breed unthinking conformity to a rigid set of values. It is designed to make us aware of our duties and responsibilities as leaders and to act accordingly. Through this program the already great strength of the Navy will be increased even more, and through it we will respond more effectively to the challenge which confronts our country."