Sinatra was a natural leader. I believe it's because he is such an up front guy who is not afraid to say what is on his mind. He is very conscious of what is going on around him and what he feels we should all be doing about it.

In the early days of the Sands, we had some real heavyweights there. Danny Thomas and Red Skelton and others. Big time nightclub stars. Frank was a combination of phenomenal talent and a guy with social conscience.

He was not afraid to speak up about anything to other entertainers or anyone he dealt with.

My main memory of him is that whenever he sang or spoke or did something, he made an impression.

Many times a lasting impression.

In early 60's I was in the 21 pit. I was around 30 years old, Frank about 50 or 52. In the afternoons we would not have a lot of business in the casino. Now in Vegas there are thousands of rooms. Back then we would have very little action in the afternoon. I'm in the pit talking with some other guys about stuff in the newspapers about kids burning the American flag.

Sinatra is coming in with some others and is rounding the pit. I don't see him. He must have heard me.

I yell back to the other guys, "It's only a flag, let them burn it."

I'm walking away and I see Frank and he sees me. He starts walking over to me. I come toward him. He moves in between two 21 tables and says. "Eddie, It's not just a flag."

He is very serious, a bit angry. "It's our flag. It's our country" He's not angry, but still very serious. "A lot of guys died for that flag."

I heard him, I understood him, I felt him.

In all my years since I don't think I made another stupid and careless remark about my country.

At least I hope not.

Yes, he does make an impression.