Raymond Curtis: the prototypical hand surgeon.

Raymond Curtis was an unusual man who lived in unusual times and made unusual contributions. He promoted hand surgery, a specialty that was little known in his early time. He educated many surgeons in the science, art, and philosophy of hand surgery. He favorably impacted the course of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) by his prudence and desire to advance its cause. His influence has altered the topography and milieu of our specialty and contributed to its progress and prosperity. His legacy is perpetuated by many of his protégées who continued to emulate his humility, intensity, and unique craftsmanship.