Recipient of the 1999 EASA Award

Paul M. Potter, Jr. accepts Exceptional Achievement Service Award at EASA's 1999 Convention.
 

Mr. Potter started his career in 1946 when he went to work for Potter & Rayfield, Inc., which was owned by his father and Fritz Rayfield.

Unfortunately, Mr. Potter's father died on the very day he was meeting to discuss his role in the company. He needed to learn quickly, and so he did. From this tragic and sorrowful beginning, he " went on with the help of many wonderful employees, customers and friends to build one of the premiere companies serving our industry today. His equipment was designed to make our job of repairing motors, generators and transformers much more efficient and productive."

Even at 81 years of age, Mr. Potter remained involved in sales even though Potter & Rayfield was sold during the early 1980s and eventually became PRJ Equipment Co.

Through 1999, Mr. Potter had attended and exhibited at all EASA conventions but three.  He missed two in a row in 1951 and 1952 while he flew surveillance missions during the Korean conflict and one in 1987 when he had pneumonia.

Paul Potter was the consummate "Southern gentleman" and a worldwide ambassador of goodwill for EASA.

Mr. Potter spoke at many chapter meetings and conferences and facilitated the net-working of Active and Associate members.  And he has encouraged many candidates to become Association members.

He personally visited and engaged in commerce in more than 70 countries from Argentina to Yugoslavia, all the while promoting his beloved trade association, EASA. His contributions to our industry have beenenormous and they will serve generations to come. He has been a valuable friend, ally and member of EASA.

Fred L. Wright, operations manager for PRJ Equipment Co. spoke highly of Potter and his commitment to the Association.

One thing stood out above all else about his advice to non-EASA members when questions arose regarding motor repair techniques.  He would always close by telling them to: "Join EASA and your fellow members will be happy to provide you with the best possible answers to your questions."