The character of Hayduke in Edward Abbey's books is reportedly based on the real-life environmental warrior Doug Peacock. Peacock's life is no less fascinating than that of George Washington Hayduke. Peacock returned from
The Vietnam War and discovered that he both couldn't and didn't want to re-enter society so he withdrew to the wilderness, where bears became his closest allies and teachers. Later, Peacock did return to society, to become one of the Grizzly Bear's greatest advocates. Doug deserves to, and will soon (as soon as I get back from lunch) have his own writeup, as he is a dynamic and interesting person.