Patrick Ward Hamilton

Well, I'm a writer, but I think Tom Paxton described my relationship with Pat best: Google "youtube tom paxton ramblin boy." Pat was a shooter, I was a scribbler. We looked after each other in countless combat zones. Marines don't leave their pals behind. I wasn't a marine (although I spent a lot of time with them in later wars) but I knew Pat would never leave me behind no matter how fierce the gunfire. And he knew I would rather die than leave him behind. I don't really miss you, Pat, 'cos...

You'll always be with me, Pat. You saved my life a few times. And, according to you, I probably saved yours. Best pal I ever had. We worked hard, in dangerous places, and, when we'd done the job, we played hard -- not with women, because we loved our wives -- but with Bourbon, Scotch, rum and the odd beer to wash it down. I think of you every day and so, to me, you're still with me. With your lens, and my pen, I know we made a difference. Sleep well -- Phil

Not a day has gone by over the past year, that I haven't thought of my beautiful friend and professional partner. As Dave van Ronk sang: "He was a friend of mine." Phil Davison, London.

Semper Fidelis Marine, rest in peace. Sgt.Trial USMC/Ret.

I was a very inexperienced Gringo Washington Post photographer who convinced my editors that I was "the" photographer to cover the elections/civil wars in El Salvador and Guatemala in the spring of 1982. You all know the extent of my Spanish skills; but how hard could it be?? I was in the central square of some village outside of Guatemala City covering an election rally, and all of a sudden, this chain-smoking photographer with Ray-Bans on said: "I've got a car waiting just over there,...

Patrick taught me to be a better photographer during our many trips along the border wall in South Texas. He sold a lens to me for a dollar and lent me a camera, in his words, for life... he was one of a kind... he will be greatly missed .. my condolences to his family...

Hasta pronto, my dearest of friends and colleagues. We sure hit some hard travellin, huh? And you always got us home safe. Best partner I ever had. Scottish Phil.

Pat was the best photojournalist & colleague to ride with covering wars for 25 yrs & rock solid friend for 43 yrs. He will be missed. Tim Chapman, Retired Miami Herald Photojournalist