You are right that everyone's situation is different and it looks like your boss really went an extra mile for you. Did you share some common background with him, like went to the same school?
Keep in mind, though, that the situation when some (or all) current employees would not be hired under current job requirements for outside hires is more common than people think!
We did not, he actually give's me crap for my school (UT Austin) because he went to USC (look up Rose Bowl 2006). We did share common backgrounds. He went to school for creative writing and I went for Film. He was essentially given a chance at being a programmer and I'm assuming I've rec'd that same treatment.
Keep in mind, though, that the situation when some (or all) current employees would not be hired under current job requirements for outside hires is more common than people think!