President Dwight Eisenhower was a pragmatic leader. After his tenure as president, Eisenhower retired to his farm in Pennsylvania, spending time with his family. His grandson, David Eisenhower, recalls how his grandfather fired him from working there.
Instead of heading into town as he planned to do, Eisenhower stayed on the farm, only to find his grandson neglecting his farm activities. The former president, eternally practical and inflexible in his adherence to rules, fired his grandson on the spot. David was shocked, but later during a golf game, he convinced his grandfather to rehire him, albeit on a conditional basis.
President Eisenhower instilled in his children and grandchildren a sense of morality and a staunch work ethic. Eisenhower recalls how his grandfather devoted himself to farm life, mastering all facets of farming – including raising Angus cattle. "He did nothing 65 percent, nothing," Eisenhower told the Kansas City Star. He "commanded a great deal of loyalty and affection," Eisenhower affirmed. He applied his attributes – steadfastness, humility and prudence – to everything he did, from the presidency to farming.
Eisenhower and his grandson had a rewarding relationship until Eisenhower's death in 1969; Eisenhower even named Camp David after him. David Eisenhower never slacked off on a job again.
President Eisenhower's attributes served him well on his farm
Like most grandfathers, President Eisenhower was a mentor to his grandson, David, teaching him about farm life.