Fidelity, Bravery and Integrity

My friend asked?

‘“What would they have said?”

Both our husbands are gone now. They cannot see the lurid headlines about the Agency they loved, revered and worked for streaming across the TV and internet

They are spared the heartache of watching the destruction of a pristine reputation so many men and patriots spent their lives striving to shield and protect. A tradition that is now being shattered by the political ambitions of their successors

They do not feel the pain of watcbing the despoilment of an arm of justice that was renowned for its integrity.

They had many names, John, Warren, Charlie, Ed, Walter, Sal, Bill, Don, Tony and of course, Art. They were blood brothers who believed in a cause and were willing to sacrifice to protect it.

They were the force that walked without veering to the right or left politically and holding firm to their allegiance to Fidelity, Bravery and Integrity.

They wore dark suits, and crisp white shirts, but never anything that would attract attention. Most, but not all of them, were returning warriors from a war torn world.

Few neighbors knew much about them. While polite, friendly, and kind, their world by necessity remained private. Their wives never entered politics or took political contributions.

They shared an agenda and commitment to shield the integrity and reputation of their beloved Bureau from any controversial accusations.

If and when on rare occasions one occurred, the guilty party would have been dismissed immediately. The expected discipline was accepted and understood by all in their ranks.

They were never seen in marches nor did they offer either interviews or leaks to the media. None of them were ever seen at a political rally and placards endorsing candidates were not outside their homes.

The honesty, integrity and reputation of a decades long institution was always protected.

In today’s fury on both sides of the aisle, it would be wonderful if America could remember those whose reputation is now being besmirched by the ugly world of politics. These patriots deserve to be remembered for their dedication and loyalty to our beloved country, its justice system and a revered organization.

The ranks of most of those I remember have now thinned. The FBI agents who spent most of their lives working for a country they loved and treasured are at last in a better place

I wonder if they look down and wonder how this ever happened. Perhaps we all should.