Captain Eugene “Red” McDaniel left us and went to be with the Lord this morning at 11:11 (many of you know the significance of that number/time with us). Is that cool or what?!! He lived a life “well lived” and was an example to many. All three of us children ( me, Dave & Leslie) were with them in their home when it happened…my brother, Dave, was able to arrive from San Diego a couple hours before. It’s been a hard several months, but the Lord knows/orchestrates the timing. 

The Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) just called me offering his condolences and thanked me/us for all he contributed to our nation. He called me on his personal cell phone, and we spoke for over 6 minutes about my dad’s story and what my dad meant to him, being able to come to this country and become what he has become. It was just very cool and special! It was very genuine. I asked him, “How did you get my cellphone number?” He said, “Hey, I’m the Secretary of the Navy…!”

We all love you and miss you, Dad! Well done, good and faithful servant!

-Mike McDaniel (Red's son)