Hello! My name is Hal, and I’m an Associate Professor of History at one of the California State University’s SoCal campuses. I’m a graduate of USC and did my postgraduate work at UCLA, which means that I’m something of a schizophrenic when the two schools meet on the gridiron or basketball court. I’m a U.S. Navy vet (1978-82, serving as a Surface Warfare Officer in destroyers and cruisers), and have always loved cemeteries. My best friend told me about Find A Grave, and I became immediately intrigued—what a great place for a history buff to hang out!

I ask that each member of the Find a Grave family please avoid leaving nasty remarks on others' interments. It is a truly tasteless thing to do and an affront to the purpose of this great website. Don't like someone? Just don't go to his/her page. What could be simpler?