Some refer to the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse as pestilence, famine, death and war. In 1924, the Notre Dame backfield was also known as the Four Horsemen — Harry Stuhdreher, Elmer Layden, Jim Crowley and Don Miller.

In the 1970s, I believe that Hamilton, Ohio, also had its Four Horsemen. These civil servants dedicated their lives to the betterment of our entire community.

They were Jack Becker, Frank Witt, Jack Kirsch and Mike Samoviski.

They will certainly not reach the level of national or worldwide recognition as the other Horsemen. However, it does not take long to look at this community and see the impact they have made through the years.

Look at any positive achievement and you will see the imprint of one or more of these Horsemen. I feel very fortunate to have known and worked with these fine gentlemen and I thought I should express, in writing, what has been on my mind for quite some time.

Jim Baxter

Hamilton