One of the greatest moments of my life was when I became a member of The American Proctologic Society. I never dreamed that one day I might become its president. Words are so inadequate as I attempt to express my appreciation of the honor you have conferred upon me. There is no greater source of gratification in the life of any man than the realization that he has the confidence and esteem of his fellow associates. It has been said that it is difficult to be humble when one is recognized because of some achievement. I doubt the validity of this statement. Certainly, it has no application in my case. I am keenly aware of the superior capabilities of so many of you, my dear colleagues, that it would be very difficult for me to feel other than humble in your presence. This feeling is responsible for the depth of my gratitude which I am attempting to express so inadequately now. All I can say is that I thank you from the bottom of my heart and I hope I have been worthy of your confidence and even more important, your friendship.

The success of this 1958 Annual Meeting can be attributed to the interest of members of the Executive Council, to the work of the Committees, to the presentations of guest speakers and to contributions of members and fellows who are participating in the scientific portion of our program.