In Memory of E. Michael Moore, Jr.
Michael Moore - A Second Generation Aramcon
Aramcon Mike MooreSeptember 6, 1998
One of the best experiences while working with Saudi Aramco is that one can literally make friends with people from around the world. This is especially true for a second generation Aramcon, or better known as a Brat. In this way, Aramco Brats may actually view Saudi Arabia as their "home" country while actually a citizen of another - in this case the United States of America. Some of you may recognize this long time Aramco Expat and Brat.
Mike first arrived in the kingdom, with his parents, in 1950 at the age of six years. His father was Syrian-American so he already had some identification with the Middle East. After a normal life, as an Aramco Brat, Mike went off to university before joining Saudi Aramco. Mike attended Vanderbilt University for all higher education earning a BS in Mechanical Engineering (Magna Cum Laude), a MS in Materials Science, and finally a PhD in Materials Science. Mike did not spend all of his time at the books. While at Vanderbilt he met Dorothy, his future wife and colleague in the Fencing club.
After receiving his Doctorate, he and Dorothy returned to Saudi Aramco, as an Aramcon rather than Brat, with a service date of September 27, 1972. After two years service Mike was promoted to an Engineer III position. It was stated on Mike's 1974 performance review that "Mike's work was hampered by lack of metallurgical lab equipment, lack of work space, and contact with other metallurgical specialists." So, Mike did something about it by becoming the primary lead for establishing the metallurgical laboratory for what was then called the Corrosion Control Department. Mike had numerous major accomplishments both in Metallurgy and in Paints and Coatings while writing many Painting Standards by himself in the 1970's.
Circa early 1980's - From left to right are Mike Moore, Bob Fuller, Don Taylor, and Dave Hanson all with the Corrosion Control Department of Engineering Services now known as Consulting Services DepartmentWhile with Saudi Aramco Mike became an internationally recognized expert in the field of Hydrogen Induced Cracking (HIC). This phenomenon can occur in sour service conditions on both piping and vessels due to the presence of dissolved hydrogen sulphide gas in crude oil or other fluids. Mike published a paper on the topic in 1976, which is still referenced by the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) in their specification MR0175, 2002 edition. Mike had developed the NACE testing method, TM0284, still in use today.
While working for Saudi Aramco Mike was a Metallurgical Consultant, Welding Engineer, Paints and Coatings Specialist, Chairman of the Paints and Coatings Subcommittee, Chairman of the Substandard Materials Subcommittee, "Reluctant" Supervisor of the Materials Engineering and Corrosion Engineering, and mentor to young Saudis. Mike also was a technical course instructor; author of 20+ published technical papers, and received numerous letters of appreciation for his work effort both in the field and the community at large.
During all of Mike's Aramcon years he was an active member of the Dhahran Fellowship supporting both youth and adult programs. The family also enjoyed numerous desert camping trips as well. His leadership and guidance will be missed by many.
Unfortunately, Mike passed away at 0945 (9:45 AM), in the Dhahran Community Hospital, on Sunday, July 14, 2002. The memorial service was held for Mike on Wednesday afternoon (July 17, 2002), at 1700 (5:00 PM) at the main camp 3rd Street Gymnasium. Mike is survived by his wife, Dorothy, his son Peter, and daughter Mary. Peter graduated from Ferman University in 2001, while Mary will graduate from Dhahran Intermediate School on July 20, 2002. Mike will be buried in Tucson, Arizona, after the family returns to their new house in Tucson.
The family prefers that condolences be expressed through the Compassion International Charity, Colorado Springs, CO, 80977-0001, under the name of E. M. Moore.