Retired Torrance captain remembers Nash as 'my chief'

At the height of his career, he had more political clout than most mayors, council members, and even city managers. In fact, for a while, he served as interim City Manager. He was wise, stern, and yet fun-loving when appropriate. Behind that stern quality, there was always a twinkle in his eyes that let you know he cared about you. I consider myself blessed to have been able to work for him and others like him in supervision and management who through leadership inspired me and many others to do our best work, to always give 100 percent, and then give even more, especially when the going got tough.

Among the many innovations implemented under his command were the "Field Training Officers" program, the "Crime Scene Investigations" program, the Police "K-9" program, the construction of the current Police Facility, and many more contributions that will occur to me later, the more I think about it. Jim Weyant could probably recall them all off of the top of his head...! And let's not forget, the City of Torrance was virtually devoid of problems related to vice and narcotics violations under Nash. This enforcement focus tremendously contributed to the quality of life in Torrance that the city still enjoys. This is truly one of Don Nash's legacies. You cannot gloss over that one.

Yes of course, there is valid criticism that can be leveled against him. But as with any person, his career must be taken as a whole, judged on balance over time, and against the backdrop of what was the conventional wisdom of the time, rather than solely on what were a few costly and highly-publicized mistakes. As for the "Rastello" case, the entire organization must take responsibility for the mistakes made there, not just Don Nash. Many people at different levels were involved in the decision making that resulted in the unacceptable outcome. And by the way, at the time, it was not considered "SOP" to have another agency handle matters involving members of one's own department. That "protocol" developed after Rastello.

I will always consider him "my Chief" as there was never any doubt as to who was in charge when he was there. Organizations need the sort of leadership he provided, something that is in such short supply in today's world. Now, in light of all that he did and all that he meant to myself and so many others, I bid him farewell. Chief, God Bless and keep you. Rest in Peace.

PS: City Council: Don't you think it's about time to name the police facility in his honor?