The invitation came less than 24 hours before the event.  A phone call from a White House aide: President Trump would like you to attend the 9/11 event at Yankee Stadium on Thursday.

When any President asks you to do something, you do it.  Four Chief Executives have made requests of me.  For example, I am proud that I helped President Obama with the “Brother’s Keeper” program.  More recently, it was a highlight of my life to address the Chinese Politburo in Beijing last May in order to encourage detente.

At Yankee Stadium, I was seated next to the President, which, considering the status of the entourage, was a surprise. Having known Donald Trump for 35 years, I knew something was on his mind.