ICMA's Assistant Excellence in Leadership Award, which commemorates former ICMA President Buford M. Watson, Jr., is presented to a local government management professional who has made significant contributions toward excellence in leadership while serving as an assistant to a chief local government administrator or department head. In 2002, ICMA presented one of two of the awards to J. Rolando Bono, deputy city manager of San Antonio, Texas. This article describes Mr. Bono's commitment to public service, community, and professionalism throughout his 24-year tenure with San Antonio. Learn more about ICMA's Annual Awards program.