DIFFERENT PATHS SAME FOCUS
October 1, 2024
I have been blessed to have been friends with recently retired Texas Ranger Danny Briley and his family for the past twenty-five years. Through Danny, I have been fortunate to meet several other people in his unique and special law enforcement profession. Daily they demonstrate their commitment to servant leadership.
Over the years Danny and I have compared notes and found that our two organizations are very, very similar in servant leadership principles and values. He and I had different career paths but our values and focus are almost identical. We have been there for each other over this twenty-five-year friendship to celebrate, to sigh, to laugh and to assure each other that all will be fine, by the grace of God. He’s been with me when my companies lost contracts and when we pursued new ones. He has dedicated his life to seeking justice for those who have been harmed and I was there for him as he dealt with some of the worst and most ruthless people in the world.
As a Texas Ranger, Danny was a sniper and leader of the “Unsolved Criminal Investigations Program” or “Cold Case” department. As an entrepreneur that cares, I have had my share of worries for the people that we employ, serve, protect and encounter. Danny and I both have had our share of sleepless nights, moments of jubilation and painful time away from loved ones. Danny was involved in solving countless bad crimes. He was the lead investigator in the “American Sniper” Chris Kyle murder case and got the confession from Chris Kyle’s murderer. For both of us, our focus and attention to detail doesn’t stop at quitting time. This commitment takes a toll on families and loved ones. The price for being a servant leader in any profession takes special people who understand the importance and concept of service to others greater than to self. Like countless others, we both have strived to make the world a little better place and still have a personal life. The reality is that our families have paid the price in many ways in allowing us to follow our hearts.
Regardless of where you are in life and what career you pursue, you too can make a positive difference. In this fast paced, changing world, may we be kind to each other and fully appreciate those who so freely and painfully serve us in all aspects of our lives.
I’m proud to call Danny “friend” and together we enjoy a shot of Bacardi Rum with diet coke and two lime wedges in a pint glass. God bless you and yours!
Written by KING AEROSPACE Founder, Jerry Allan King-Echevarria.
