Every bureau needs a Phil Pullella; few are so lucky

Every bureau needs a Phil Pullella, but few are fortunate enough have such a seasoned stalwart. Phil epitomized the Reuters commitment to accuracy, speed, fairness and context. His antennae picked up stories that escaped the notice of others in the bureau -- and among Reuters competitors  -- because he paid attention whatever the hour or day, had been around the block more than the rest of us, cared about the file and couldn't stand being second.

I'll forgive the no-holds-barred roasting Phil gave me over a bureau dinner as I prepared to leave Italy, but only if he promises to put his experiences into a book. It will make for riveting reading -- and rattle more than a few in the Vatican. ■