Edward James Thompson comes from humble beginnings in rural Arkansas. By the 11th grade he had accumulated enough credits to go on a work release program. He became an assistant manager at a local KFC. This was long enough ago when chickens were processed at the restaurant. He was one of few people who knows what the 11 spices and herbs are. He joined the Arkansas National Guard in 1988 and served for 2 ½ years. He was trained in turbine engine repair. After his service he was a bouncer at various bars over the years. Then, on June 30, 1992, Jim experienced his extraterrestrial encounter of a lifetime. This was not an abduction. It was an invitation. During at least four hours on the craft with his girlfriend in a temporary stases to protect her from her emotions, he was shown many things. He deliberates of his experience just before, during, and after where on the way home his vehicle stopped from a tiny bolt of lightning from his radio antenna.