Rookie Ranger

Amy in Yellowstone

Rookie Ranger

by Carol Shively

I got to know Amy when she "entered on duty" at Yellowstone. It was her
first season with the National Park Service. I was on the team that
provided training for the new interpretive rangers in the park. I remember
looking over the podium and seeing her shining eyes --so eager and
earnest!

Amy had been searching. She'd served in the military. She'd been the
manager of a bookstore. She'd done a number of other things, as well, but
none fully satisfied her. Then, she arrived in Yellowstone. She took what
we told her at training and ran with it. She was fortunate to have had as
a supervisor and mentor, Ranger Neysa Dickey, who is one of the Park
Service's finest.

Amy and I talked from time to time during that first formative season. By
the end of it, her search was over. She'd found her niche. And she pursued
it with the characteristic energy, determination, and skill that became
her hallmark amongst her colleagues in the National Park Service.
Receiving the highest honor the agency awards, attests to her great
ability.

Amy, you accomplished your mission. You connected hearts and minds to
places. Rest well, dear friend.

Godspeed,


Carol

Carol Shively