Remembering Arthur Crames
Dear Amanda,
I was a Police officer in USR 1977-1983.
I got the pledge info from Chief Rotella, who I just met. That is where I met your Dad, who dropped off Ranger and Yankee Tkts at HQ... I used them as much as anyone I suppose, and I finally ambushed your Dad one day when he was dropping them off. We chatted, I found out what he did, and I asked him if I could come in and see what was what. Being who he was, he said sure. So, I put on my one suit and visited. I asked him if someone like me could do this work. He suggested I get a MBA and stop back in. I think to his surprise, I showed up around 2 years later with my MBA. Your Dad sent me over to Merrill Lynch where I met a former NYS Trooper, I want to say his name was Dave, who's last name escapes me at the moment. They got tired of me after a few months of visits and sent me to LF Rothschild. I walked in and was immediately greeted by Bob O'Neill also of USR, who sent me to Larry Caffrey, also of USR, who was a Managing Director at Paine Webber. Larry hired me 3 mos later. Funny, how one thing leads to another in life. Without your Dad's help, I would not have met all those other people and ultimately, Larry, who hired me. Over the years, I would drop off little gifts at your home in USR around Christmas, but I never did see your Father. That was the way he was.
He would not accept thanks. Chief Flannigan finally hooked me up with a phone call a few years ago where I was able to officially express my gratitude for what Arthur Crames did for a young guy 33 years ago.
He asked me to do the same. I assured him I had, was, and would continue do so. Several of us helped Larry Caffrey's son get a position in the business, and we have offered support and contacts to many more. Your Dad's spirit lives, and the chain of men helping young men, remains unbroken.
I am still kicking, and hope to do another 4 years on Wall Street. He was quite a guy who probably helped hundreds of young guys like me. I am, and will always be, grateful Amanda.
Peace.
Donald G. Beier
