This is the story of an ordinary man who was born in Ireland in 1923 to a widowed mother of six. Beginning at the age of 80 until his death at 89, my Father told stories of what it was like to grow up poor, experience the dreaded cane that was used for discipline in school, describe the feelings he had about his family's situation, how he played sports to gain confidence, and happily worked in a factory while always dreaming of emigration.

In 1949, with $40 and his girlfriend (my Mother), he set out to achieve the American Dream. He felt that the best years of his life were when he was working hard in the construction industry in the 1950’s in San Francisco and raising their six children. By the end of his life, he felt his dream had come true.

No rags to riches story, but rather a typical story of the many men and women who emigrated from their homeland for the chance to thrive in America. They survived, they thrived and they were grateful. To their generation, I say thank you.

As my Father always said, God bless America!