Phil's influence at the lab in the 64-65 time frame was on the wane. With his ever narrowing role, also went part of his enthusiasm. I find it highly doubtful that if Phil had remained under the circumstances in place in 1965 that he would have effected a more positive outcome.
If anything, ITT corporate probably felt better with Phil out of the loop. With Phil gone, about half of the team was demoralized while the other half flourished and hit the highest neutron numbers to be seen during the entire project period, 59-68. The next year after Phil left, 1966, was their biggest funded year ever.
I give the facts without embellishment here and let you folks figure out whether Phil's exit was a plus or a minus, whether the higher numbers were on the inertia he started or the fresh blood injected into a project in the doldrums, or a combination of both.
I do know that everyone, to the man, was saddened over the final episode and Phil's departure, which seemed tragic and un-necessary.
Richard Hull
Created on Friday, May 25, 2001 11:48 AM EDT by Richard Hull