My purpose for intruding here was not to document UFO sightings. Nor was I here to compromise national security. Still, some of my closest friends voiced serious reservations about this expedition. My wife believed, in the event of my arrest, the '49er team's credibility would be lessened and our previous accomplishments jeopardized. She also felt I was selfishly undertaking a risk that could, conceivably, have fatal consequences.
Guards here carry automatic weapons.
Well, I must admit, my reasoning is probably a bit muddled, but my conscience remains clear. My only purpose for being in this forbidden land is to pay homage to our past. These were not military people. These were not mountain men. They were just people, like you and me, dreaming of a better life for their husbands, wives and babies.