xiii charged with the task ascended to the big GP in the sky, and his family unknowingly disposed of the records. Fortunately, some members still have at least a partial recollection of the events of those days. When records and resources ran short, we turned to our membership, who stepped in and filled in many of the historical gaps required to complete the ACOFP history. It became abundantly clear in compiling this history that the secret of our association’s success was not just the leadership, but also you, the veteran members. It was the corps of hardworking, dedicated members that had made our college such a success, and many of those same physicians came to the aid of the Archival Committee with panache. Twice in ACOFP’s history, circumstances left us with no home, no revenue, and a crippled leadership structure. Stresses of this type would have reduced many organizations twice our size to a pile of ashes. It was the spirit, dedication, and loyalty of our membership that allowed this great college to rise like the phoenix of old from the ashes of hardship. Like that mythical bird, ACOFP emerged, each time more vibrant and impressive than before. Those trials taught us many lessons and forged strong leaders that positioned us on a solid foundation to endure the economic stresses of the century. History, roots, trials, tribulations, and A.T. Still, MD, DO, tie the bond of the loyal, committed family. Fifty seems to be the number that denotes maturity of an individual as well as an organization. ACOFP fits that mold and definition. Established in 1950, it is now more than 50 years old. The first work on the published history was begun with the 50-year anniversary and will be presented to the membership by the 50th president, who was also born in the land of “dream makers” in 1950. Also, it is remarkable that it has been 50 years since the far west, California, has been represented at the highest leadership level. We recognize that this is a work in progress and many more editions are yet to come because the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians is dynamic and will remain a protector of osteopathic family practice for many years to come. May she nurture, grow, be ever vibrant, and lead the profession to new heights. M. Jay Porcelli, DO, MHPE, FACOFP, FAOASM dist. 2003–2004 ACOFP President
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