It has been my privilege to know a remarkable man, Kevin Cahill MD, who is one of the world's preeminent specialists in tropical disease, and because of the extraordinary range and depth of his knowledge in this and other fields is often asked to serve on a wide variety of commissions, institutions and specialized groups.
He was recently appointed Chief Medical Advisor to the New York City Counterterrorism Unit and was called in as a consultant and diagnostician after the World Trade Center attack and personally dealt with at least two cases of Anthrax. In addition, he is a consultant to medical groups such as Doctors Without Borders, and is involved in evaluating and helping to ameliorate medical conditions in refugee camps around the world.
When I saw him today I was belt carrying the TACM III, the INOVA X5, and two extra SF 123's (all in one pouch). I also had the ARC AAA Le and a Photon II on my key ring.
"Somehow" the conversation turned to flashlights, and after demonstrating the Inova I mentioned my membership in CPF, and that we own, evaluate and review many specialty lights, and the fact that a number of manufacturers, designers and dealers were represented in our group. I asked him whether he could foresee any need for specialized, superior flashlights for either the Counterterrorism Unit, refugee camp groups or both. He was intrigued by the possibilities, though he admitted that he didn't know what an LED was. He asked whether CPF could provide large quantities of a particular light or lights at a significant discount or as a contribution to these groups if needed. I explained to him that our group had no such authority or capability but that once he defined his needs we would be the ideal source of information leading to an appropriate choice. He was about to leave town for two weeks but said that he would consult with his groups to see if they had any interest in mission specific specialty flashlights.
He said that if there is any interest I may be contacted within the next week or so. If I hear nothing within the next month, I shall assume that either the need has been already met or that no such need is perceived.
I thought that Flashaholics would find this interesting, and I know that we are all ready to give good advice if and when the time comes. One of the things that I find satisfying about our group is that, unlike many other online groups, our hobby has direct, important "real world" ramifications, and that we are a relevant force for information, advice and assistance.
Brightnorm