On my last deployment to the Persian Gulf, a pair of TAD (temporary assigned duty) guys joined my ship for the countless doughnuts we did there (the Persian Gulf, in spite of its fearsome reputation, is unbearably dull 99.9% of the time). One of these guys was Chuck, a wet-behind-the-ears E-4 who thought he knew it all. We delighted in proving him wrong with the typical “new guy” pranks.
I found out later that young Chuck went on to actually know it all, picking up a couple of college degrees in his precious little spare time. He is now a mustang, that rare breed of enlistedman who reaches the officer ranks. The E-4 I used to prank is now a lieutenant commander (O-4) with no signs of stopping.
Some sailors do only what they’re asked, some don’t do anything they’re asked, and some do far more than they’re asked. My friend Chuck’s in the last category. He’s the kind of guy who makes the most of every opportunity.
I thought about Chuck when I met Rodger Koopman last night. Their stories are similar. Koopman joined the Air Force as a lowly airman and worked his way up to the rank of captain and general’s aide. It takes motivation to better yourself in a job that already asks so much of you. He made the most of his opportunities.
That kind of pluck translates very easily to the business world, or politics. Koopman is an approachable guy: smart, funny, and easygoing. No strong ego begging for attention. He knows the issues and speaks freely on them. He is not a guy driven by image consultants or polls – he doesn’t have to be. What you see with him is what you get.
At the meet-and-greet I felt I monopolized his time, discussing solutions to water issues, growth, and national issues we’re facing. I came away impressed. Rodger Koopman is a genuine guy, one who leads by example. He’s got a bright future in city politics, and maybe even beyond.