At training in Columbia, MO, we trainees frequented a run-down student hangout with wooden booths, and tables carved with initials and the like. Allan refused to go in there, saying, “It’s dirty”. Some of us shook our heads and agreed, “He’s not going to last long in India”. And a month or two after were posted to our sites, a new story of Allan was told at the Blue Fox restaurant, the new PCV hangout in Kolkata. Allan had come to “town” on the train, like we all did, but he had ridden in the coal-fired engine compartment, and had shoveled coal all the way! I was most impressed. We miss you, Allan, and your always reliable smile and positive outlook. -Donn Davy
Ed Keesling remembers Bob Whitfield
One little story I remember was when Frank Claunts visited our site after a few months, he had a meeting with Ajitt Roy, our BDO. When Frank asked Ajit, how is Bob doing with his language skills, Ajit replied, Bob is doing great, he speaks a little English, and a little Bengali, and a whole lot of something else. (Bob had a heavy Arkansas accent, and the Bengalis had a difficult time understanding him). On the other hand they all loved him and nick named him “Sonny Liston” because they thought he resembled the boxer.