Prayers needed for one hell of a public servant.

[greenheadgrimreaper]

Blake Williamson texted me today and told me the news I had heard earlier this morning- that Larry Waddell the former Nanih Waiya WMA manager and a wildlife officer is now on borrowed time due to cancer- we can pray it is not so. Please lift him up in your prayers.

Mr. Waddell was the definition of what every single WMA manager and wildlife officer that I have ever run across is: a public servant.

Used to be, a public servant was a fine title to have. From the IRS, TSA, congress and so many other pitiful examples of federal (and a lot of state) public servants, it's good to see that the guys on-the-ground, working for the sportsmen and women of the state, are upholding the fact that public servants are a breed set apart.

They deal with not only the public, but a hierarchy of command that supersedes almost any private sector job. Mr. Waddell exemplifies the American Government and its employees that our founding fathers envisioned- one of integrity and honesty and equal disposition to all the owners of this great country.

He truly helped the people that utilized the wma (as every wma manager I have met and known have), he was always fair and just and he was, he is, a friend. He is a man for any man to hold great respect for. He was always happy to help, to report, and always took delight in hearing about a good hunt or a bad one. I hate like all hell that this damned disease may claim another good one.

To the other unsung heroes of the MDWFP and other honest folks working for us, thank you.

To Mr. Waddell, I thank him. I'll go to my grave with memories of him- regardless of when or if he goes to his. He is a good man.

[Wingman]

I don't think I've ever met him but that is a fine testimony.

[Big R]

Very well said, Austin and every word in the truth. Larry is a good a man as you could ever want to meet.

[Smoke68]

Never met Mr. Waddell, but you're right about the WMA Managers as a whole. Great group of men to be around. Personally, I find it a lot easier to get up in the mornings and head to my local WMA because I know even if I get turned away and go find something else to do, at least I get to chat with the manager for a few minutes. I'll find out what's been flying, who's been showing up, whether somebody got lost the day before and had to walk 5 miles back. It's always a pleasure.

Prayers go up for this man and his family.

[mudsucker]

Prayers for him and his family.

[bustercat64]

He is a fine man I hate to hear this. I grew up just around the curve from Larry and were ever Larry is he makes it a better place. Praying

[duckkiller]

Mr Waddell is about as good a man as Ive ever met, always took the time to stop and talk to you and ask about your season, your family and everything in between. The MDWFP and the state of Mississippi is blessed to have a man of his nature to be working for it. Austin Im not sure anyone could say it any better than you did!

[Tedl10]

Very sorry to hear this. Prayers sent.