R.I.P. Superintendent Fred Rice. My condolences to his family.
My personal experience with Superintendent Rice was limited, as I was just a recruit back then - the first class under the Washington administration (85-1A).
Still, I have a humorous Fred Rice story to share...
After the graduation ceremony, we were all taking pictures. I asked the Superintendent if he would pose for a picture with my wife and myself. "I would be happy to", he said.
With the dark and dry sense of humor that I am sometimes noted for...
While standing next to him for the picture, I looked down and brushed off the four stars on his shoulder with my white-gloved hand.
Jokingly, I said, "No offense sir, but hopefully one day I will be wearing those stars."
Without missing a beat, he chuckled and said, "Son, by the time you get these stars - I'll be dead and buried... heh heh heh."
The picture was then snapped.
Immediately afterward, he turned, shook my hand, and said, "Make sure you get that college... college is very, very important."
25 years later...
I never forgot those words he said to me. I went to college, obtaining both an undergrad and a masters degree.
As for those stars...
Perhaps the fantasy of a rookie police officer... My professional reality has played out much differently... and quite unexpected as of late. LOL
The only "gold" I envision in my future will perhaps be a retirement watch... which I am in no hurry to receive.
God bless you Fred Rice. In my eyes you were a true gentleman and a good Superintendent... with a healthy sense of humor.
Thank you for your service.
