Leon "Whitey" Thompson lived through a violent lonely childhood, saw battle at sea in World War II, was a career armed robber, a long-time convict and finally became a whole man. After his last release from prison he married Helen Thompson and went to ground. Leon's restlessness inspired Helen to encourage him to revisit his past and share his experience. Here is his story, in his own words. It's a rare and intimate glimpse into a celebrated but brutal world and a clear window into life at one of the most infamous prison communities in human history: Alcatraz Island, "The Rock."
