My admiration of Bill Buckley began in the 1960s when, as a grad student, I joined YAF and ISI and began subscribing to NR.  Soon, I was watching Firing Line on a regular basis, and I noticed that when he was about to make a telling point in his debate with an opponent, he would adopt a wry smile and have a sparkle in his eyes.  I will always picture him that way.

I had been a conservative long before I became aware of WFB, but he made it possible for conservatives to become acquainted and mobilized.  I still am a member of ISI, and the last time I saw him in person was at the 50th Anniversary celebration of that organization. 

His influence will be felt for generations to come.

A mighty oak has fallen. My condolences to his family and to the staff of National Review.
Byron C. Hall, Jr., Centerville, Ohio