Another giant has passed from the trauma world. Erwin Thal died Saturday morning in Dallas, his home city. I have known this brilliant and charming surgeon for many years, and always enjoyed his company and his fine wit. It saddens me greatly that we will no longer feel his direct influence on our field.

Dr. Thal attended my medical school alma mater, The Ohio State University. He went on to complete his internship and residency at Parkland Memorial Hospital in 1969. He then joined the faculty there and has been an integral part of that program for the past 45 years. He co-authored numerous papers and book chapters, and was a major presence in the education of trauma and surgical trainees.

His presence will be missed but never forgotten.