Remarks by
BG William Rapp
Division Commander, Northwestern Division
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Induction of Ken Boire
NWD Distinguished Civilian Gallery
Portland, Oregon
15 September 2008
Greetings and welcome to Ken and his family on this special occasion to celebrate a lifetime of superior service to the Nation and the Corps.
Ken’s resume clearly demonstrates a 28-year career with the Corps characterized by innovation, excellence, enthusiasm, technical competence and team-building.
You’ve heard Witt describe the progressive succession of key positions that Ken held, culminating in his appointment as Chief of Economics at this Division.
His influence, however, extended far beyond the Northwest states.
Water resource projects across the country are now developed, reflecting the new nationwide economic procedures and policies that Ken helped pioneer.
As such, he was considered a “national asset” in the eyes of others – repeatedly recognized for his leadership and expertise by USACE, the Institute of Water Resources and the ASA (CW)’s Office.
Over the years, his achievements were documented with numerous performance and special awards over the years. Ken is the recipient of more than 13 Department of the Army commendations.
He was also selected as the Portland Federal Executive Board’s Employee of the Year, and took home the Corps’ Outstanding Planning Achievement Award.
Like others who have shaped the Corps into the pre-eminent organization it is today, Ken’s contributions have significantly moved us along the path from Good to Great.
During his 15 years at the Division and 13 years in the Districts, Ken consistently . . .
1) Delivered superior performance
2) Set the standard for his profession
3) Made a positive impact on the nation
4) And left us a lasting legacy of expertise.
He continued to do so following his retirement in 1994, as owner-operator of his own consulting economic firm, completing several dozen significant studies and reviews for the Corps and other organizations.
Considered one of the country’s premier economists on small boat harbors, Ken’s grasp of navigation and commercial fishery issues have kept him in the vanguard of knowledgeable experts.
Today, we are proud to recognize him for a truly distinguished career which has brought honor to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and all who have worked with him.
On behalf of the Northwestern Division, I thank you, Ken, for your many years of exceptional service to the Corps and to the Nation.
It is my pleasure at this time to induct you into the NWD Gallery of Distinguished Civilian Employees.
Your photo will be added to the others on our Gallery wall outside of the Executive Office.
(UNVEIL photo).
Ken, the floor is yours.