Robert Mueller’s résumé is a picture of military, legal, and civil service perfection. He’s been a federal prosecutor, a U.S. attorney, and a legal partner at famed firm Hale and Dorr. In 2001, his confirmation to head the FBI came just one week before the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Since then, Mueller has been focused on terror threats, and his teams have broken up dozens of plots and terrorist cells. But Mueller never has been one to act rashly, even in the face of new threats. He opposed calls for new wiretapping laws until sufficient changes were made to safeguard citizen privacy. He defends the rights of ordinary Americans amid the temptation to clamp down on civil liberties, while still keeping the nation safe. Mueller is due to leave his FBI post next September. But his service stands as a testament to his love of country.