In a videotaped message to retired Maj. Gen. Donald Storm, Sen. Mitch McConnell may have said it best.

“The general is fond of saying it’s not about the general, but it’s about the soldiers and airmen,” McConnell said. “Well, today is about you.”

Storm was highly decorated in his 37-year military career. Now, the Leadership Tri-County William Hacker, M.D. Leader of the Year Award can be added to his mantel as he was honored as the recipient of the 2008 award Thursday evening.

“I sometimes wonder how blessed one person can be,” he said. “You don’t know how really moved I am tonight. I am thankful and blessed to have these kinds of friends from the area I love.”

Storm began his military career in 1970 when he enlisted with the United States Army Reserve Group in St. Louis, Mo. After retiring from active duty, he enlisted with the Kentucky Army National Guard in October 1972, where he was employed up until his recent retirement in December 2007.

“After all, if not for the National Guard, we wouldn’t be sitting here tonight,” he said. “We wouldn’t have this nation. The National Guard, citizen soldiers, are part of the reason the country is here today.”

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In his videotaped message, McConnell gave his opinion on what so many who have been acquainted with Storm already feel.

“He is one of our best,” McConnell said.