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I met Al at Laguna Seca in 2003. I'd just purchased my '65 Giulia Spider Veloce and planned to go racing. Over the next few years he helped me learn to go faster smarter. He often cautioned me not to take my youth and energy for granted but also never to forget the lessons to be learned from those who have gone before. Al was a big WWII buff and I believe he collected Jeeps too. We often talked about the HBO show, Band of Brothers and "The Greatest Generation". He, along with a lot of the other 'older' guys in paddock taught me to how to listen and learn. I'm sad that I never told him, that although we only visited on race days, he had a big impact me in general.
I'll miss you Al and your wisdom, kindness and gracious hospitality towards this young punk asking too dumb questions.
Your friend,
Martin.
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