Hello, my name is Bill Dykes (trail name is Bill Dozer). I am from Bigfork, Montana (born and raised in Alabama). I am 67 years old, a recently retired Civil Engineer with a career in hydropower. I am a first time thru hiker. I am married, have three grown kids, and have a Silver Lab and Bluetick Hound. I will be attempting the AT NOBO starting on 2/18 (with Plans B and C in case winter stays with us). I have hiked all my life, primarily in the Smokies and Glacier National Park. Many people have helped in my preparation, specifically my wife and family as well as Coty Sapp with the Katahdin Adventure Company up at Millinocket, Maine. I have conducted various shakedown treks in Maine, Tennessee, and Montana. I am hoping my younger son is able to join me on parts of my thru hike.