Looking back on his youth conjures fond memories— whether it was attending the Tribe’s consolidated elementary school, working the land with a crew of boys, or meeting his high school sweetheart. Forging his way in the world during a time when integration was taking hold, he eventually married his first love, went on to work for the railroad and military, and then to serve on Tribal Council. Today, he is a man deeply connected to his Indian roots, grounded in the belief that people are all connected as part of the human community.