Bernd Debusmann

And so the legend that is Debusmann is hanging up his reporter’s notebook. The end of an era. Bernd, you were a hero of mine from the moment I joined Reuters in 1973. I followed in your footsteps in Bonn, Beirut, Mexico and Central America. Your departure from Mexico City turned out to be a seismic event, leaving me, your successor as Chief Correspondent, to cover the 1985 earthquake after only a few days in the job.

Your smile was hard won but when it shone, it was a delight well worth waiting for.

Fly on, my friend, and may your parachute always glide you home safely. ■