William E. Timmons
National Political Director for the 1980 Reagan-Bush campaign

I'll leave it to others to reflect on President Reagan's most significant contributions to America: defeating communism and replacing it with capitalism, changing the direction of national domestic policy to provide community answers for local problems, advancing individual responsibilities rather than group advocacies, and restoring moral integrity to a country longing for virtuous leadership.

Ronald Reagan possessed charm, warmth, and wit that captivated America not too much to be seen as "slippery" and not too clever to be a "know-it-all," but just the right amount of personal qualities that endeared him to us all.

One anecdote to illustrate the point: Sitting in his southern California office in the early summer of 1980 I had an unpleasant task of arguing for an issue that I knew Ronald Reagan didn't agree with, but I hoped to change his mind. Several other important supporters of the former Governor were present and they, too, were opposed to my view. About half way through my presentation Reagan pulled out of his desk pieces of paper and constructed two sailplanes which he launched across the room, swirling around in front of us all. I thought to myself, "He hasn't heard a word I've said. This is a heck of a way to receive a rejection."

When I concluded much to my surprise the future President asked several very practical questions about the substance of my argument and suggested the paper aircraft was to put me at ease before such an armada of opponents. Oh yes, after fashioning a realistic compromise he accepted my position!