1st draft

# HORAN TRIBUTE

John Horan invited me to join the Merck Advisory Board shortly after I left government in 1977. By then I had met a number of Chief Executive Officers. I realized very quickly that John was an unusual representative of the species. Diffidence of manner was paired with firmness of conviction. It was clear that while no doubt an excellent manager, he saw the task of leadership not in administering what existed but in building for distant horizons.

Experience more than confirmed first impressions. John's conduct of the meetings was always professional and matter-of-fact. The members were moved by his integrity and his commitment to the social responsibility of a pharmaceutical company. They had the sense that their contribution was not a public relations exercise but a contribution--however marginal--to an enterprise that took the challenge of international health seriously. Throughout John guided the proceedings with understated firmness and self-abnegating tact.

It is difficult to think of John Horan as retired. I am delighted that he will continue to chair the Advisory Board. But given his convictions and his strength I have every confidence that he will contribute in important other ways as well to a better future for our country.

6/11/85