Karl Darrow wins 1960 Compton Medal

JAN 03, 1960

For his dignified mastery of decorum and his warmth of personality which have made him a figure in American physics never to be forgotten by the countless numbers of his colleagues who have had the privilege of knowing him.

About the Winner

Karl Darrow has devoted himself to physics in ways without precedent of parallel. Through his extensive travels, his mastery of languages, his exemplary courtesy, and his many personal loyalties, he has fostered the international fellowship of physicists in a troubled world. With the farseeing cooperation of the Bell Telephone Laboratories, he was able to make a notable career of his great power for exposition, shedding light on newly appearing facets of physics for the benefit of generations of colleagues.

He has been a fellow of the American Physical Society for forty-six years and has served as its Secretary since 1941, the longest and most fruitful term of anyone in that capacity. In this period which has been one of extremely rapid growth, he did more to maintain and build up the Society’s purposes and traditions than any other person. He has rendered service and encouragement to the American Institute of Physics not only as Secretary of its largest member society but also as a former member of its Governing Board and at all times a friendly and inspired adviser.