Crown grad from Algonquin rose to lead TSA

David Stone, a national leader with local roots, was remembered Sunday during an uplifting memorial service at Dundee-Crown High School.

More than 100 friends and former classmates gathered in the school's auditorium to pay tribute to the talented athlete from Algonquin who went on to become the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security.

Stone, 57, died in November from a heart attack at his Virginia home.

Among those paying tribute were President Barack Obama, who wrote a letter to Stone's wife, Faith, that said, "Rear Admiral Stone led the Transportation Security Administration with the same distinction and dedication that he demonstrated as a Naval officer. Throughout his life, he set and example for his colleagues of integrity and commitment to public service."

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton also wrote a letter to Faith Stone, describing Stone as "an extraordinary man whose devotion to our country and commitment to service will forever be his inspiring legacy"

On a more personal note, Stone's sister, Peg Schwartz, praised her brother during Sunday's service.

"After meeting Dave, he made you want to be a better worker, husband, wife, friend and person," she said.

Another memorial service for Stone was held in December at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md.

Stone was the Transportation Security Administration's first Federal Security Director at Los Angeles International Airport. There he developed the post-September 11, 2001 security standards required by law, including the electronic screening of all checked baggage.

President George W. Bush then appointed Stone as Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for the TSA. He remained in the position from 2003 to 2005, overseeing an agency responsible for the safety of the country's mass transit, rail, highway, pipeline, maritime and aviation systems.

Most recently, Stone served as president of safety and security of Cisco Smart+Connected Communities, based in India.

A 1970 graduate of Irving Crown High School in Carpentersville, since merged with Dundee High School to become Dundee-Crown, Stone was inducted into the school's Hall of Fame in 2005.

He was recruited to play basketball at the U.S Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., where he earned a bachelor of science degree and began his naval career in 1974. He retired 28 years later with the rank of Rear Admiral.

In May, Stone will receive a memorial burial with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.