Wow! What a surprise. Thanks for the accolade. I'm not sure how much I've done but it's been a fun trip. In other words, it's been a group effort, and I've only been lucky enough to have been associated with a lot of creative, talented and dedicated people -- both salaried and volunteer.

Just for the record, my 30th anniversary occurred while I was in the process of transferring to the battlefield, and I'm actually in my 33rd year (which makes me pretty d--n-d old!). I was in the division of museums for 9 years before transferring from the Oklahoma Historical Society to the Oklahoma Military Department in 1978 where I directed the 45th Infantry Division Museum through its expansion and remodeling stages. (We added the "support services" building, and a new wing to house the Jordan B. Reaves Gun Collection and the Bill Mauldin "Willie & Joe" drawings.)

From 1982-1991 I was superintendent at the Henry Overholser House in Oklahoma City, then spent eight years in planning and coordinating work at Honey Springs, and was given the opportunity to move here in 1998-99. I sincerely appreciate the efforts of many people who have worked (and are still working) on behalf of the battlefield.

I'm really not bragging! Just pointing out that although I was eligible for full state retirement four years ago, it's because of the great number of people like Jim Martin and Glenn Jones and all the others who post on this and other message boards, and because of the Friends of the battlefield and the many volunteers and reenactors and students and concerned citizens and the great staff here at the battlefield that I've chosen to stay. It IS great fun and we believe it all worthwhile, too.

Please come and visit!