Who is Richard Wald from The Engines of God and what is their importance?

Richard is a household name in the archaeological field. He will be remembered for as long as people search and explore. He is filled with exuberance and vitality, loves the company of beautiful women, and enjoys an occasional drink or a good party. He does, however, keep business and pleasure separate.

Once on Quraqua, Richard is swept up in the exploration and excavation, especially after the team gains access to the lower temple. The discovery of a printing press is a career highlight for him, and he works without thought to rest or safety. His enthusiasm will be the end of him, as he waits too long before evacuating the surface. Richard dies doing what he loves best, and manages to secure the chases from the press before leaving the planet. Sadly, he leaves just minutes too late, and dies on the end of a cable, as Hutch desperately tries to save him. His death is devastating to her.