A letter from Dan Rather after Jeff died

To the family of Jeff Meyers,

With heavy heart and many fond memories of Jeff, I want to offer my condolences and respect.

One never knows exactly what to say at times such as this, but I do want you each and every one of you to know in a personal and direct way that I care, and that you are very much in my thoughts and prayers.

Although none of us has ever met, because of Jeff I do feel that I know you. This is said in the sense that I knew Jeff, knew what kind of man he was, and thus know the kind of people from whom he came. Men of Jeff's character and accomplishments are rarely formed and developed without loving family members young and old as strong parts of his life.

True, Jeff tended to be a quiet man, at least he usually was when working, the only context in which I really knew him. But in many faraway places with strange sounding names, in hellholes and other datelines around the world, we sometimes spoke of home. I know from these conversations how much he loved his family.

I also know these things about him:

Jeff was an exceptionally hard worker and one of the best professionals with whom I have ever had the honor to work beside. He was talented and took great pride in always striving for excellence.

Over the years, in sunshine and storms, I have been honored to work with many of the world's best at what they did. Jeff, simply put, was the best of the best at what he did.

And he was brave. He was at my back and side in the war zones of Bosnia , Afghanistan and Iraq, where the real and present danger of possible death was constantly near. Through every nightmarish situation and there were many this man never flinched or faltered. When the pressure and fear were greatest, Jeff was oak and iron. He was steady, steely, focused relentlessly concentrating on what he had to do, and on looking out for the safety of others, including me. With Jeff around, you never had to worry about your back. He had you covered, and you knew it.

These things about him were in contrast to, and complimented, his gentle, caring side. He was wonderful with refugees, especially children, and was always especially respectful to women whatever their race, creed, or religion. He was a gentleman and no man, woman or child had to speak his language to know it.

My admiration for and appreciation of Jeff knows no bounds.

May God rest his soul. And to each of you, in these hours of grief and need, may He bring you peace and may you find solace in the sure knowledge that Jeff was a superb professional, a credit to his country and a man who brought honor to his family.

- Dan Rather