Dr. Gary Washington Testimonial
Character Reference for Michael Bucci
Date: November 29, 2020
I am a chemistry professor at the United States Military Academy in West Point, NY. I have worked at
West Point for the past 26 years. In that time I have taught hundreds of cadets as we develop leaders of
character who go on to serve the nation as officers in the Army. I also work as a horse trainer and
communicator which was the basis for my initial meeting with Michael. Michael had a young stallion
who was difficult to manage and would not accept a halter. After 3hrs of work with the stallion he was
ready to accept a halter and be lead by a handler. Michael introduced me to the other animals at his farm
and described how people would arrive in the dark at times and abandon the animals. Michael took good
care of all the animals and insured they were well fed and treated well. I saw then as now a man of
sound character who is committed to extending and enhancing the life of all animals for as long
as possible. This kind of nature extended to people who after they boarded one or more horses seemed to
often be unable or unwilling to pay any board at all. It seemed on several occasions
that the “dead beat boarders” would take advantage of the kindness and want to direct the feeding,
medical care and other business opportunities at the farm. I have always been amazed at these boarders
who gave so little and received so much while complaining about everything. Michael took the high
road and continued to offer essentially free board to these “deadbeat boarders” until they because a sour
influence for visitors and other boarders and sometimes hurtful to the animals. Michael continues to
care for the horse, goats and chickens and even brings food to the stray cats around town. It is not an
exaggeration to say that Michael devotes his life to taking care of animals and people in need. I
recall two programs Michael had in which he would acquire used cars that were refurbished and
were offered to single mothers and the work he did with autistic children at the farm.
At West Point we develop leaders of character and cadets who will chose the harder right over the
easier wrong because it is the right thing to do. Michael has chosen the harder right over the easier
wrong his entire life. I have always found Michael to have sound character and willingness to help
people and animals. I believe we need Michael and many more like him than ever because people and
animals need a place to go and feel same.
Dr. Gary Washington
Associate Professor of Chemistry
Department of Chemistry and Life Sciences
United States Military Academy
gary.washington@westpoint.edu