TOP CHARACTER STRENGTHS

HUMOR - LOVE - LEADERSHIP

Colonel Michael Endres, a highly decorated 26-year Field Artilleryman of the U.S. Army who was the first director of the George W. Bush Institute’s Military Service Initiative, died suddenly in Dallas, TX. He was 48 years old.  In a statement on the passing of COL Endres, President Bush said that, in the military, Mike had “served his country with honor and distinction” and that “he continued to serve his fellow men and women in uniform through his work at the Bush Institute.” The President added, “It was a privilege to know him. I was impressed by his love of family and country, his integrity and enthusiasm, and his commitment to the cause of freedom. He was an important member of our team and a friend who will be dearly missed.”  Hours before his death, he sent a memo to members of the Bush Warrior Open task force, thanking them for their “tenacity, professionalism, attention to detail, and overall willingness to ‘get it right’” (a good description of some of Michael’s own qualities). He wrote: “Before any major events in my life, I have tried over time to make a habit of ‘offering it up’ for someone close in my mind or in my heart. Major Tom Kennedy, U.S. Army, and his family are my personal selections for this event, and have me focused on what really matters. Tom was a remarkable Solider, Husband, and Father and was killed in Afghanistan recently by a suicide bomber. I was proud and honored to call him friend…. I offer this reflective technique to any of you fellow leaders, if you find it helpful. It has worked for me to stay centered.” COL Endres served in both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He was a 1986 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and earned two Master’s degrees.  He joined the Bush Institute in 2012 from USMA, where he had been deputy director of admissions.

Character Strength Stories: 

Humor - Michael had a great sense of humor and an infectious smile. He was able to use this character strength during times of turmoil to lighten the load and give people hope to "git r dun.” He had a presence when entering a room - ready to shake hands, give a hug - making wherever he was a happy place. The Endres' were known for epic themed-events and Michael was often quoted: "What's worth doing is worth over doing."

Love - As President Bush said in his statement..."I was impressed by his love of family and country, his integrity and enthusiasm..." Michael had a big heart and was extremely generous not only monetarily but with his time and gave much of himself. He valued close relationships and worked at ensuring everyone felt included. He cared deeply for his soldiers and their families. We had a robust Family Support/Readiness Group in each of our units which we felt reflected our genuine care for their wellbeing at work AND at home.

Leadership - Michael's soldiers and officers - even civilians - would "go to war" with him anywhere anytime. He was a beloved leader in his Army units as well as when he served in a largely civilian department at West Point. Cadets wanted to be him "when they grew up.” He led by example - always the last to be served at dining functions and always served on the line at mess hall holiday meals. He wouldn't ask anyone to do anything he wouldn't do himself - often wouldn't even need to ask to get something done - they just knew because he always showed who he was. He was genuine and authentic which created loyalty and great espirit decor among his team(s). He was big on recognizing jobs well done as well as the smallest deeds and created "Atta Boy" and "Atta Girl" awards that were given out at unit functions. The year Michael passed, Hiring Our Heroes created the "Colonel Michael Endres Leadership Award for Individual Excellence in Veteran and Military Spouse Employment,” which is awarded annually at the HOH Gala in Washington, DC. (All of the other awards are given to corporations or organizations.)

- Cheryl, Surviving Wife