I got my start writing the story about my father, John N. McCain, who was with General Patton in his march across France and Germany in WW2. My Dad is now 102, so I could ask questions and get direct information as needed. When I thought about writing the other books about people who had passed on from this life, I asked myself, "Is there enough info for me to actually put a book together?" Turns out that you just have to do a lot of digging and research, but the info is usually out there.

Dr. Vernon T. Chew was my mother's grandfather whom neither of us knew, but he was one of our more "mysterious" ancestors. I just felt that the family should have the opportunity to know more about his life and his work. I have been working on this book in some way for at least the past eight years. Researching and writing about these ancestors is extremely rewarding. It feels like I am giving new life to some of these pioneers and opening a window into their lives for future generations.

I just felt that this was a story that needed to be told and remembered, not just for our family, but for the many who can also be inspired by a real American who lived life with integrity, a strong work ethic, and a desire to do what is right for all.

Gene McCain, Proud Great Grandson