Nargeolet's letter seems to be many things -
I see things there that are 'fair game' and probably easily backed by facts from sources he cites; I also see a taking to task of Ballard for over-reaching - even as I do think Ballard deserves much credit for heading what became the first truly successful effort at definitively finding the wreck. And some of it may be a bit of an over-reach by Nargeolet for entirely not unpredictable human reasons - Ballard got tons of press and became a household name - 'Nargeolet', et al?
For that matter, in theory, Ric could happen to be sleeping even as a submersible stumbles onto the distinctive wreckage of NR16020 one day - does that mean his role as a team leader / executive director of an expedition that finally definitively found the holy grail of aviation should be diminished? That would be a low-shot IMO.
On the other hand, how Ballard has often presented his views and himself have frequently left much to be desired, IMO, in terms of recognizing big TEAM, LITTLE me, which is as it should be in a healthier, honest situation, also IMHO. Nargeolet seems to rightly call Ballard's hand for some unwarranted criticisms, as well - and what he shares of destructive currents at the bottom of the sea at that locale is both enlightening and convincing as to the writer's own superior first-hand knowledge of the site. That should be humbling to Ballard: he does not seem to have had the experience that Nargeolet has accumulated, not in the least.
All good lessons to apply by TIGHAR as a team, of course. One hopes the attitude here is healthier, no doubt. In my experience I believe it is - having seen others and even myself credited at times with positive ideas along the way. That feels pretty good - not for the personal credit so much, but more for how TIGHAR operates as a whole.
Just one word to Ric - "don't sleep at Niku"
