What evidence is there of Whitman's personality in the introduction to Leaves Of Grass?

I am not sure that Whitman does much to avoid his
personality and presence in Leaves of Grass.  Fundamentally,
Whitman believes that his work has to be a reflection of him and his beliefs.  There is
little in terms of trying to separate this.  In this light, Whitman ensures that what is
written is from his own point of view and rooted in his own beliefs.  Consider that one
of the poems in the work is entitled, "Song of Myself."   The introduction makes it
clear that while America and poetry are the topics, Whitman will not lose his own place
in this narrative.  The very idea of "I Hear America Singing," is representative of
Whitman's personality in what he experiences within America.  His repetition of "I
Hear," helps to bring out the idea that the subjective experience is an integral part of
what is he is exploring.  In "Thou Reader," Whitman is open about how he identifies with
his reason, thus proving the converse true that his readers should identify with him. 
The notion of Whitman's subjectivity as being a part of the introduction is compelling
because Whitman is introduced as much as the work, itself.  In this, Whitman is able to
assert the Romantic tendencies that he appropriates in his view of
America.