[Pyro]

This is really sad news.

Bernard "Buck" Shinkman was an "honorary" member of the London Region and kept in touch with me over the years as to what was happening in his old region. I had not heard from him for a while. I had an open invite to stay with him in Washington - but I never got to take up the offer.

Buck was a very senior press officer attached to the State Department and had joined our Club when over here working at the US Embassy. I met his successor at the Embassy shortly after 9/11 when I laid a bouquet of remembrance on behalf of the Club. He confirmed what I already knew - Buck was one hell of a character with a great sense of humour.

He rode his bike to work every day and his office used to run a sweepstake as to how late in the year (snow etc.) he continue to ride - he always surpised them at how long he would keep going.

Although he had been back in the states for over 15 years he remained a staunch supporter/advocate of the H-DRCGB. His rides - last I heard - were a V-Rod and a Wide-Glide.

I've attached a picture of Buck (and his son) when he picked his V-Rod up from the dealers.

I shall miss my Email conversations with him.