Bill Tucker, who retired from the U.S. Forest Service not so long ago, speaks fondly about his years of service in Lincoln County.
Tucker began his career decades ago as a Ranger in the Smokey Bear Ranger District.
At the 75th Smokey Bear celebration he was recognized for his years of service and gifted a walking staff by Smokey Bear.
Tucker took the opportunity to share with visitors adventures that spanned his 29 seasons with the U.S. Forest Service.
"I was once asked what I did all day long. Well, I packed a lunch, got into my little green truck, headed to the mountains and I had a picnic everyday," Tucker said.
The Bonito Lake area became known as "Tucker Meadows" over the years. If anyone needed to find him, they knew where he was.
"I saw so many things during my career, good and bad, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. It was my love," he said.