Wong, Ignazio honored for service at town meeting Jim Wong, retired Director of Operations, and Joe Ignazio, retired Director of Planning, were presented with Meritorious Civilian Service awards during the January 20 town meeting. The two gentlemen contributed over 80 years of commitment to the Nation and the Corps of Engineers. Lt. Col. J. Michael Bradbury, Deputy District Engineer, described Jim as a “man of few words.” He praised him for his work as the head of Operations, saying that he did a lot for the District. Lt. Col. Michael W. Pratt, District Engineer, presented Jim with his medal and certificate as Lt. Col. Bradbury read his citation. According to the citation, Jim received the official commendation for meritorious performance of duty for “his exceptional contributions to the New England District’s operations programs, which will continue to be realized for many years to come, both in program management and in the professionalism of several generations of personnel who had the good fortune to be mentored by him during his 40 years at the Corps. His outstanding integrity and tireless dedication to people have served as an excellent model that has inspired many others to strive for similar standards. His superior leadership achievements are in the finest tradition of public service and reflect great credit upon himself, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Department of the Army.” Jim said a few words before taking his seat. He said that he had spent the majority of his career in Operations. Since his retirement, he has been spending a lot of time with his children and grandchildren. Jim credited the late John William Leslie and Andy Andreliunas for making his career possible. He also thanked the people of Operations who worked for him for doing a good job. Joe Ignazio was next to receive the award. Lt. Col. Bradbury said that Joe was known as “Papa Joe.” “He was here when we moved in and he helped us move out,” said Lt. Col. Bradbury. Joe was presented with his award, according to the citation, “for the inspirational and innovative leadership he exhibited as Director of Planning for the New England District. Mr. Ignazio consistently demonstrated a drive to foster the most effective and efficient organization possible. The benchmark of excellence he set is one that will be emulated for years to come. His keen ability to motivate and develop those around him is exemplary. His outstanding achievements are in the highest tradition of public service, and reflect great credit upon himself, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Department of the Army.” In contrast to Jim, Joe proclaimed himself “a man of many words.” He recalled special moments throughout his career. He urged everyone to take a picture of the Waltham Federal Center as a memento before they move to the new facility. Joe said that, like Jim, the late Mr. Leslie was an influence in his career. “I was under the tutelage of Mr. Leslie for 20 years,” he said. “And then after 20 years, we were given 66 bodies which became Planning Division.” Regarding retirement, Joe warned everyone that they are in for a little adjustment. “It took me six weeks to realize that I wasn’t on vacation,” he said. Joe said that playing golf, joining a bowling league, and moving in his social circles keeps him busy. “I also enjoy the casinos,” he added. “I go every week. Foxwoods has a great sports bar.” He also mentioned that his six children and five grandchildren are doing fine, and that he is expecting two more grandchildren in the near future. Joe said that he still “pumps iron” and advised the audience to “make a lot of money and get your own gym.” In concluding his remarks, Joe said that he thinks of the New England District often and has come back to visit occasionally since his retirement in April. He thanked the New England District for the award and said he would come to visit the District “when you move into your new house.”

Table of Contents, Yankee Engineer, February 1998