Superintendent's Report
Sam Kelsey's death reveals true character
Marvin Beaty

Like many parents, I have spent some time reflecting on my habits as a parent. Am I doing the right things when it comes to raising my children? I know I've made many mistakes, yet I hope I've done some things well. What kind of men will they be? Will they be good husbands, fathers, citizens, and friends? Will they be kind, courageous, trustworthy, loyal, faithful and generous? Will they be brave in the face of adversity? Will they choose to do the right thing when those around them are choosing the popular or expedient path? Will they stand up for the weak, the downtrodden and the less capable?

As parents, we ask ourselves these questions knowing the answers will reveal themselves in time. We take pride in the times they behave in all the right ways and often cringe when they make bad decisions. Yet, only time and often dire circumstance reveal the true character of our children.

I never knew Sam Kelsey. He and I never exchanged pleasantries or shared time together. I don't know his family. However, through their grief of having laid this fine young man to rest, these questions have obviously been answered. From what I have been able to learn about this young soldier, I have concluded that he was brave, to the point of making the ultimate sacrifice for a fellow soldier. Wouldn't it have been easier to run in the face of danger? Over the centuries many have done just that. Wouldn't it have been easier to resign himself to the fact that a comrade was lost and make certain that he lived to fight another day? Obviously not for this brave young man.

Some years back I learned that bravery is not the absence of fear, but action in the midst of fear. Occasionally, in my position as superintendent, I witness the poor parenting skill of someone that truly has no business having children. However, I find myself admiring a family that I have never met. Obviously, Sam Kelsey was raised right! May the same be said of all of our children someday?

On behalf of Troup ISD and my family, I want to offer sincere gratitude to the Kelsey family for making the ultimate sacrifice in sending their son to the front lines offering protection for me, my family and our country. It is a sacrifice that deserves our gratitude and admiration. There is no doubt that Sam took his role seriously and faithfully executed his duties. I am proud to live in a town and work in the school that produced a young man with the courage and character of Sam. Hopefully, we will all learn from this young man and emulate his courage and character. God bless the Kelsey family and each of you.

On behalf of Troup ISD I want to wish each of you a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. And, remember you are always welcome at Troup ISD.