Remembering My Pioneering Father

As only son and offspring, my father Edward “Ted” James Beattie Jr., Class of 1939, was and still remains a legend and pioneer in thoracic cancer surgery, making breathtaking advances in the last century. Princeton clearly inspired risk taking with clear science thinking that propelled elegantly my father’s focus and dedication through Harvard Medical and well beyond! Few nonalumni children may be heard today speaking out for their parents, especially my father’s generation! That said, despite great opposition from Ted yet full support of his father, I pursued independent paths (non-medical but similar leanings) into environmental hazardous waste site cleanups for 40 years. Princeton, your values, ethics, and demand for character and honesty do transcend to alumni offspring!