Cliff Webster told me once that he was trying to get once-a-year medicals approved for pilots over 40 but wasn't getting anywhere with the GCAA. He told his friend, Maurice, who made one call to His Highness (probably his Highness) and the paperwork came through the next day, just needing signatures!! Now that's influence. Wasta.
I brought his death up the other day on a flight and the F/O didn't even know who he was. Kinda sad, somehow. RIP Sir Maurice.
Leroy.....Leroy was amazing. Did the same job his counterparts do today but with no intimidation, a sense of humour and he made you feel like an adult and a professional. Hope he's doing alright, wherever he is.