I first worked with Gene when I was a young dispatcher with The Florida Highway Patrol.  He was the epitome of the core values of the FHP.  He treated everyone with respect, regardless of their station in life.  He was a quiet, soft spoken man who was well thought of by all.  As he rose through the ranks, he continued to set the example for all who followed.  As an example, not too long ago we had a retired trooper who was seriously injured in a fall.  The trooper, whom Gene did not personally know, was hospitalized in the western NC area.  Gene called me and told me to offer his home or any assistance to the trooper while he recovered.  Just wanting to help a fellow trooper he said.  That spoke volumes about his character.  God Bless and keep you sir.