I met Eric Steenson in 1978 during my first night at ULAS THQ as a new UC. I was told by the CFI (Dave Drew) to introduce myself to him as he would be my QFI. I felt terrified after seeing him standing holding court with numerous third-year students. However, I did approach, he stopped talking to the others and went off to buy me a drink, returning to engage me in conversation and making me feel I was the most important student pilot in ULAS. Looking back now I realise that it was an example of good manners, inspiration and leadership. Qualities that Eric was know to possess, a sad loss indeed.