I asked myself this question, on assignment, when General Michael Hayden retired from the Air Force after 39 years of service. How many of us do anything for 39 years? OK, how many of us do anything we ARE proud of for 39 years?

You know Gen. Hayden from his “day job” as the CIA Director, a post he’s held since May 2006, and one he’s keeping. What many people don’t realize is that Gen. Hayden is also a four star. He is the highest ranking intelligence officer in the Armed Forces.

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The ceremony at Bolling Air Force Base, just outside of Washington, was a virtual Rolodex of the intelligence community: the DNI, the Deputy DNI, the former head of the NCTC, the former CIA director, Gen. Hayden’s No. 2, acting general counsel for the agency, head of the Coast Guard…..

The ceremony was short, but powerful with moments of real humor. Did you know that the CIA Director at one time sold hairbrushes and combs door to door? He is also a die hard Steelers fan. He once worked as a bellhop. Check out the clips: two from Defense Secretary Gates (below) and the other from Gen. Hayden (above). This is a human side of the intelligence world you seldom see.

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Gen. Hayden joined the Air Force when he was at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. In his early 20’s, Gen. Hayden told the group, that he had never been on a plane and that this career choice would take him all over the world. One of the most moving moments came when the general thanked his wife Jeanine for her service to the country. His family presented him with an American flag which had flown at each of their assignments. It was powerful because, as he said, his success was not possible without his family.

So ask yourself the same question. How much of your success is due to the help of others? I’d like to begin by thanking our DC intern Natalee Morales who helped me select the clips!