Retired law enforcement officer turns to poetry

While most people enjoy retirement by traveling or catching up on reading, other’s get a creative spark. That describes one Pocatello man who enjoys writing poems. However, his poetry isn’t for himself, but for others.

Gerald Waggoner is a retired law enforcement officer and air force veteran. He is a father, a grandfather and a husband. Although he wears many hats, he’s also always considered himself a writer.

He’s been writing novels and short stories for decades, but he gets the most joy by writing poetry for other people.

“If it makes someone happier then I feel better. Knowing that I wrote something you connected with,” Waggoner said.

Many people in the Pocatello community have received a personalized poem from Waggoner. However, his notoriety shines brightest during the holidays, for his seasonal poems. His Father’s Day poem he wrote more than a decade ago has resonated with many to today.

“It’s just something that you feel inside you know? Waggoner said. “I help people feel better and that makes me feel better.”

Tonight at 6, we’ll hear more from Gerald and his Father’s Day poem that has touched so many in the community.