The following biographical sketch was compiled at the time of induction into the Academy in 1996 and altered in October 2002.

Birmingham, Alabama, is the birthplace of Edward Malcolm Friend III. He is the son of General Edward Malcolm Friend, Jr. and Hermione Friend. Eddie Friend attended grammar school and high school in Birmingham. Following graduation from Shades Valley High School, he entered the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. In college, Eddie Friend was active in student affairs and was named President of Omicron Delta Kappa and Jason's Honor Society. In 1968 he was graduated from the University with a B.A. degree. He continued his education at the University School of Law and was awarded a J.D. degree in 1971.

Following his return home from law school, Eddie Friend became associated with the respected law firm of Sirote & Permutt which he served as President. In addition to his active practice of law, Eddie Friend was invited to accept a position of adjunct professor in the school of business at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. Mr. Friend is also vice chair of the Regional Board of the Colonial Bank.

Eddie Friend lavished much love on his parents and other members of his immediate family. He also has been able to shower his compassion on his fellow man. Eddie seems almost always available for civic duties. He has chaired the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, the United Way of Central Alabama, Big Brother/Big Sisters, the American Red Cross, Farrah Law Society (University of Alabama School of Law), the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and Birmingham International Festival. He also serves on the board of numerous organizations including the Childrens Hospital of Alabama, Metropolitan Development Board and the Boy Scouts.

Eddie Friend's awards and recognitions of his many good works have come from many sources. Among them are the American Red Cross merit award, Birmingham Lawyer of the Year Award, Outstanding Alumnus of the Year Award from the University School of Law, Who 's Who in America and Who's Who in American Law.

Eddie is married to the former Catherine Comer and the father of Kate Adams and Comer Crawford.

Edward Malcolm Friend, III has adopted his late father's philosophy of life: "One does not find peace pursuing happiness. Happiness is a byproduct of helping others and leading a meaningful life."

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