The guy worked there for 9 years. That's a really long time, longer than many posters here's entire careers (mine included), and longer than most of us will ever work at a given job. Of course he's going to be emotionally invested, and knocking him for this is a bit cruel.
Not so long ago, your kids _would_ know you as someone who drives buses for the local bus company, delivers the post, or works down the mine.
Not so long ago, your kids _would_ know you as someone who drives buses for the local bus company, delivers the post, or works down the mine.