Growing up, I had a good idea as to what I wanted to do as an adult. Writing a book was not one of them. Before I retired, my wife, Doris, suggested that I should write a book about my history. I mentally rejected the idea. Writing about my experiences at the zoo never entered my mind. I was not sure if I wanted to write about my history. When my daughter first started writing her own books, I was happy for her, but I still was not interested in doing the same thing. Retirement changed that, but it didn’t happen right away. A lot of thoughts entered my mind, and eventually, I wanted to write them down. La Leta was a great help and without her, none of them would have been printed with both of our names on them.

When I was writing the last book, I realized just how much could be discussed, being the reason that I decided to leave some information out. I did it for two reasons. First, I wanted to have more time to think about the material. Second, I was not sure if the book were something that people in general would be interested in. The reaction so far has been positive. In this book, I want to clarify some statements made in the previous. There will be more references to certain animals that I have seen and heard about while in the military.

I decided to include more of my personal history. I expressed my opinions about the zoo and will continue to do so. I have strong views about myself. It will not be a complete "tell-all" and like anyone else, there will always be more to tell than just my life at the zoo. I must forewarn you that it will be the good, the bad, and the ugly; but it will be the truth.