His book on Fortran was the first programming book that I read in depth. I had 8 hours before the Empire Builder left Union Station in Chicago for Montana on my way home for Christmas. The book was for the next quarter.<p>I did not realize that he also started out in Montana in a small town that is small even by <i>Montana</i> standards.<p>My relationship with Fortran deteriorated over the years, however. It was a welcome introduction.