AbstractIt is fitting that this symposium be dedicated to the memory of Al Maschke. His recognition of the implication of the very high dE/dx of high energy heavy ions in matter was the first connection made between the mature accelerator technology of high energy physics and inertial confinement fusion of DT. Moreover, he contributed many significant ideas to the development of the field. Especially important was the Maschke power transport limit, elucidated in the first workshop. Its implications are discussed. Al's attention then shifted to the front end of the accelerator system and his contributions include application of the Gabor lens, origination of the Meqalac system, resonance crossing and the concept of momentum-rich beams for fusion applications. These contributions are described together with some personal comments and some recollections of the early evolution of heavy ion fusion as background. While some early events are mentioned, this paper is not meant to be an exhaustive history.