David Dinkins’s groundbreaking mayoral victory in 1989 helped New York City turn an important corner in racial equality. He entered City Hall at a difficult time in New York’s history, and he helped set the city on a course for success – and a reduction in crime – that no one at the time imagined possible. He was always generous to me during my time in office, for which I was grateful — and I took every opportunity to remind people that mayors after him stood on his shoulders and built on his legacy. Today, while others may remember his distinguished and courtly demeanor, I will always remember a man, a Marine, a mayor and a friend who was deeply proud of his service to his city and country – and rightly so.