I want to offer a special note of appreciation to William R. Hileman. For without his foresight to audibly record the original manuscript, and without his deep concern that Michael's memoirs be made available to all present and future Hileman descendants, as well as all others, it would not have been possible to produce these wonderful pages - all would have been lost.

Again, "thanks" to Bill Hileman; for his untiring proofreading and editing and to Deena Knotoff; for her transcription assistance. I offer a very special warm offer of gratitude to my wife Kathleen, who has given her unwavering support, and to my son seven year old son Dylan, who has patiently waited till daddy got off the computer to excitedly ask - "what else did my Great Great Great Grandfather do?".

And finally, especially to Michael Hileman, who while in the closing of his life, thought about how he could convey the history, and the lessons of his life, to those who were yet to live. For without this caring act, I would have never known my 2nd Great Grandfather, nor would have my son Dylan.... and someday, I hope, my Grandchildren.

Ed: 14 Nov. 1999