Cold War Peacemaker by Don Pyeatt and Dennis R. Jenkins

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MWSA Review

Cold War Peacemaker is the history of the B-36, America's largest strategic bomber. But more than that, it is a brief history of the city of Forth Worth, Texas. The book provides a glimpse of the power and politics of Amon G. Carter to bring the aircraft industry to 'his' city. His political power was best illustrated by the following event.

Consolidated Aircraft in San Diego was manufacturer of the PBY Catalina "Flying Boat." As war was beginning in Europe, Consolidated was to ferry PBY's to England. They needed refueling way-stations. When Amon G. Carter learned of this need, he marshaled the resources of Forth Worth, and within days (not years, months, or weeks, but days) had prepared a refueling station on Lake Worth. This station was the genesis of an Army Air Corp training base, that became Carswell AFB, that is now a Naval Air Station. It is also adjacent to the site of Plant Four, the manufacturing and assembly facility for the B-24, the B-36, and later the F-16 "Fighting Falcon."

The book is a pictorial history of the B-36 -- from assembly, to crash sites, to demolition.  The appendices (seven) provide details of the plane's variants and its contribution to aviation development.  It became the first wide-body aircraft and was the test bed for atomic powered aircraft.
 "Cold War Peacemaker" is a recommended read for anyone interested in aviation history and the politics of the Cold War.

Reviewed by: John R. R. Faulkner (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

Great airplanes don't simply appear in history, they evolve through a myriad of technological, political,  and economic processes. In this book you will experience one of the most unlikely developments in aviation history -- the Convair B-36 very-long-range nuclear bomber. From its beginnings during the world's greatest conflict, through construction in a former wild-west cattle town, and deployment into the Cold War, the story of the Convair B-36 and how it intimidated the Soviet Union is an interesting study in politics and technology. In Cold War Peacemaker, you will experience life during the Cold War as your parents and grandparents lived it. You will meet military leaders, politicians, cowboys, tycoons -- and a cowboy tycoon -- who worked together to save the free world from communist domination. You will also see up-close the amazing technology of aviation at the beginning of the nuclear age and how it was manifested in the B-36.

Lockheed Blackbird Family by Tony Landis

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MWSA Review

Did you know that there were only fifty Blackbirds ever produced? Tony Landis tells us "In a fitting tribute to this remarkable vehicle, the Blackbird family remains the only operational aircraft to have had all surviving airframes still in existence after retirement, either placed in storage or put proudly on display in a museum. Not one single airframe was ever scrapped." I found that very interesting. You know what else was interesting?  The fact that this was the first book that appeared at our home that I couldn't get back from my husband so that I could read it in order to write a review! So I let him know that he was going to have to participate in giving me feedback for this review.
 
This book includes more than 100 "never-before-published" photos and even recently declassified images from the CIA. That really impressed us along with the technical information being enjoyable to read and was also very understandable to someone like me that has little background knowledge on the Blackbirds. I appreciated the engineering sketches that were included which were very helpful in learning about more aspects of these planes.
 
This book is great for both the expert and novice when it comes to learning about the Blackbird. It is very impressive and well-worth adding to your book collection, especially for readers who love photo journals with lots of information. Tony Landis did a superb job of putting together this photo scrapbook Lockheed Blackbird Family. To sum it up, my husband was thrilled to find out he was going to get to keep the book!  

Reviewed by: Joyce Gilmour (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

Still the world's most popular and most exciting aircraft, the Lockheed family of A-12, YF-12, D-21/M-21, and SR-71 Blackbirds are to this day the highest-performance jet-powered airplanes ever flown.  They have set numerous world speed and altitude records for manned aircraft powered by air-breathing engines that theoretically may never be broken. Although no longer operational, A-12s and SR-71s flew for nearly three decades at speeds in excess of Mach 3 and altitudes of up to 90,000 feet. 

Expanding on the successful sales of all Specialty Press Blackbird publications is this natural extension of our product line created by compiling many never-before-published photos coupled with new declassified information recently released by the CIA, including black-and-white and color photos of A-12 cockpits, early camera installations, and never-before-seen special camouflage schemes.

POW/MIA by Mike Mullins

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MWSA Review

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Author's Synopsis

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She Wore Emerald Then by Carolyn Howard-Johnson & Magdelena Ball

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MWSA Review

This collection of  30 poems by Magdalena ball and Carolyn Howard-Johnson seeks to evoke and illustrate the many aspects of motherhood. In the first half of the book, the poems by Magdalena Ball evoke a cosmic quality and imagery. Coil of Life', for example, refers to the birthing process, as the 'Big Bang,' an unusual metaphor. In 'Assault by a Black Hole', the reader is taken on a journey from the sublime to the commonplace intended to bring a smile to the lips of the reader.

Howard-Johnson's contributions to the collection are less ethereal and more "down to earth." For her motherhood is a sacerdotal role that is accomplished by the day to day nature of life, by example and by a mixture of tenderness, sternness and inner strength.

If you're a fan of modern poetry this is a worthwhile book.

Reviewed by: David Tschanz (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

"[Both] poets continue to write poems that don't sound either like banal Hallmark cards or the bitter-at-dysfunctional-family jeremiads that habitually torture MFA writing workshop participants." 
~Kristin Johnson, screenwriter and founder of the Warrior Poets Project
 
She Wore Emerald Then is collaboration on the subject of motherhood by award-winning poets Magdalena Ball and Carolyn Howard-Johnson, both of them mothers and daughters. They worked together on a book of love poetry called Cherished Pulse to the acclaim of reviewers. She Wore Emerald Then is available as both an e-chapbook and paperback and is illustrated with tender photographs by May Lattanzio.  As it happens, it was released the week of death of Carolyn's mother--a fitting tribute.

Twisted Tongues by jim greenwald and Ruth Gerhardt

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MWSA Review

Twisted Tongues is a book of Native American historical poetry written by Ruth Naphas Gerhardt and Jim Greenwald.  The poetry is sincere with the authors opening their hearts to show how history has been misrepresented and mis-portrayed.  Both authors are sharing the truth about a part of history that didn't appear in my history books and I wonder about yours.
 
Having lived in Wisconsin all of my life, you might think that I would know many Native Americans, but I really don't.  There was a five year part of my life that I did, however, share with three beautiful Winnebago Indian children.  They were a sibling group that happened to be in our county system as foster children.  I had the honor and pleasure of being a foster mom to these kids and fell deeply in love with them.  
 
Authors Greenwald and Gerhardt share that there are many stereotypes about Native Americans.  My group of three children came to us because their mom was dealing with alcoholism. Their father was not a part of their life.  After five years with these children (ages 12, 14, and 16), my husband and I checked into the possibility of adopting the sibling trio.  The tribe would not hear of it because they "didn't want their children assimilated into 'White culture.'"  When the children were all teenagers, an aunt from out-of-state came into the picture and received custody of the children, after telling lies to the foster care system, and we ended up in court to defend our reputations, which was majorly important considering I am a school teacher, and the false accusations could have lost me my license and the future adoptions of five children. It cost us a lot of money to work through that whole process, but none of that matters to me anymore.  What matters is that I "lost" my three children, and it was worse than experiencing a death, because I didn't even get a good-bye.  

The ONLY thing that pulled me through the loss was that our first baby (through adoption) came into our life and every time I went to the threshold of his nursery door, I said this prayer: "Dear Lord, please don't let my pain affect my baby. Don't let my hurt transfer to my little boy.  Help me, Father, to regain my strength and move on from this."  After a year with this aunt, the oldest child contacted me, very unhappy because she felt her aunt had taken them in order to get their "Indian money."  This whole situation absolutely broke my heart.  I felt like a number of the stereotypic comments about Native Americans were being "proved" to me.  
 
So I have lived with a broken heart due to "my children" being taken and communication cut off forever.  I can't say that I've been living with resentment within myself, but I have lived with not understanding the reasons the tribe had for their decisions.  Somewhere within me I buried the pain.  I didn't have the history that has been shared in Twisted Tongues to help me on this journey in life.
 
When offered the chance to read Twisted Tongues I had no clue the impact that it would have on my heart and my thinking.  I didn't even have a clue that it dealt with Native American history.  The authors had no clue that I had any experience with loving three Native American children.   I believe that the connection was meant to be, and fourteen years after this painful time in my life, Twisted Tongues has begun to heal the hurts that have been buried deep within me.
 
Why do I share all of this?  Because Twisted Tongues has revealed Native American history to me.  Authors Greenwald and Gerhardt have written beautiful poetry to explain history and no condemnation comes through it.  I now understand that the birth parents of my three Winnebago (Ho-Chunk) Indian children could have had to deal with unbearable hardships.  Who knows what their parents and grandparents faced? Who knows what they themselves faced?  I now totally understand why the tribe wouldn't want their children "assimilated" in the "White world."  Read the poem "Suffer the Little Children" to see what happened to approximately 12,000 Indian children.  
 
Have you heard the expression "Walk a mile in someone else's moccasins"? Well, Twisted Tongues certainly will get you out of your shoes and into a pair of moccasins.  I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to read this book.  I hope that others will receive a blessing from reading it, because of the understanding it brings about Native American history.  Thank you, Jim Greenwald and Ruth Naphas Gerhardt, for pouring your hearts into this project.  Thank you for working at enlightening people and doing it in such a way that we can learn and hopefully it will make a difference in our thinking and our lives. 

Reviewed by: Joyce Gilmour (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

The Twisted Tongues collection of "historical" poetry brings together two dynamic poets: Ruth Naphas Gerhardt (With Pen & Feather) and jim greenwald (Mitakuye Oyasin, and Tears for Mother Earth).

History unfortunately is written by the conqueror and therefore lacks the balance of truth one should expect in an accurate historical accounting. This collection presents facts, not fiction, of events that have taken place in this land that is now called the United States of America. In the "settlers" quest" for what was not available to them in their homelands, they set out to take from those who were the original inhabitants of this land. The result of this greed was hundreds of wars, multitudes of lies, and the committing of atrocities whose repercussions still resound today.

The writings within are not intended as complete history, but rather something to whet your curiosity enough to investigate on your own. Do so at your own peril as the truth can and will torture one's mind as it relates to beliefs held close as a result of the Declaration and Constitution. It should be embarrassing enough just to relate this one simple fact: out of the five-hundred plus treaties signed by Native Americans with the government of the U.S.A., the government cannot point to one it has honored.

The Supreme Court record, based on percentages of rulings against Native Americans is appalling.  Rarely has any governmental body utilized archaic law with such contempt and disregard for fairness, equality, and reason.  The court in one flagrant abuse of its powers used "latches" as an "excuse" to void the claims of land made by the Oneida. "Latches" literally means "they waited too long!" In Sherill (NY) v. Oneida, it was the lone deciding factor to toss out a legitimate claim to land that had, beyond a doubt, been stolen from the Oneida by the state of New York.  Not one ounce of reality or consideration was given to the fact that by oppression in many of its forms the Oneida were not capable of mounting a sustained legal fight for what is rightfully theirs. That is why they lost their land.

We hope you enjoy this collection and are stirred to investigate on your own what really happened and still goes on today. Set aside all your hard learned theories and beliefs taught to you by "Hollywood." This is real!

Momma’s Boots by Sandra Linhart

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MWSA Review

This is a touching conversation between a mother and child, one that until just a few years ago would never have taken place.  In today's military wives and husbands and in many cases both find themselves being deployed, away from their children.

As adults we honestly have emotional issues with separation, it is almost impossible for us to understand the frustration, fear and anxiety a child goes through as to his/her family being torn apart, the parent or parents are suddenly gone from their life.

Thankfully more attention is being given to what happens to children in these situations and Ms. Linhart has written an excellent book I  recommend for young children and their parents to share to help prepare them for the mental onslaught they will feel.  

In sharing this book and others she has written to help in these situations the child, parent and the military will benefit.  Distracted soldiers are poor soldiers, removing or coming to a better understanding will assist the mental preparedness of front line soldiers.

Reviewed by: jim greenwald (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

It's Boot's task to take Momma where she's needed, but it's Momma's job to explain why.  When Momma puts on her boots, Bean knows it's time to say good-bye, and maybe for a long time. What does Momma do when she goes? Do other mommies wear boots which take them away, too?

Can Bean understand the many things Momma is called to do, why her boots sometimes take her far away, and how a soldier's work is not much different than some other mommies' job.

Being deployed is a fact of life for soldiers of all military branches. Humanitarian efforts, Operations Other than War (OOW), peaceful or wartime missions - a soldier's duty is to be there. Sometimes it means leaving their little ones behind wondering why.

The ABC’s of OCD by Kathleen Dunn

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MWSA Review

I was impressed with very adult like effort that 8 year old author/illustrator Kathleen Dunn has accomplished with her serious but fun book called "The ABCs of OCD!" It looks like it meets a need out there for young people to read about OCD. I image that the literature with regards to OCD is not as much fun to read as this book would be.

This young author takes other youngsters on a reading adventure to help them cope and understand a little more about what they might be going through if they are one of those many children out there living with the diagnoses of having OCD. I found it fresh, entreating and whimsical with simple illustrations and wording. Totally fitting for young children between the ages of 3-8 years of age. 

I highly recommend this book for anyone--be it parent or grandparent out there who has a youngster dealing with OCD. This would be a good read-aloud book to share with the youngest of them; while for those in grade school this would be a very easy read for them.

Reviewed by: Bill McDonald, MWSA Founder and Reviewer (May 2010)

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Author's Synopsis

A whimsical look at a child's view of dealing with her Obsessive Compulsive Disorder experiences ...'maintaining a sense of calm to cope with the challenges of daily life help keep things in perspective' ... perhaps there's a lesson for all of us.  Life Will Be OK!  "The insight, humor and warmth of this book is an example of the best resources of the human spirit! Healing comes in many forms and Kathleen Dunn has captured the essence of a difficult disorder that has affected but not defeated her family. To me 'The ABCs of OCD spell H-O-P-E!', Dr. Brand, PhD. Psychologist, Alliance Psychological Services, LLC. Kathleen dedicates this book to both of her war veteran 'Paps', she is sure one of them had OCD!

Daddy’s Boots by Sandra Linhart

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MWSA Review

Engaged in two wars and various police actions our military and their families are under more stress at this time than ever before.

Ms. Linhart's book provides a means for young family members to understand, to cope, with the separation of their family for extended periods of time.  Difficult enough for the spouse left behind for children often traumatic.  In this short book she has provided a voice to young children, providing them with a first step at least in dealing with separation.

Deployment and military are one word, regardless of branch of service separation will occur, how it is dealt with determines much and Ms. Linhart has taken three giant steps toward helping children and parents understand.

Reviewed by: jim greenwald (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

It's Boot's task to take Daddy where he is needed, but it's Daddy's job to explain why. Being deployed is a fact of life for soldiers of all military branches. Humanitarian efforts, Operations Other Than War (OOW), peaceful or wartime missions - a soldier's duty is to be there. Sometimes it means leaving little ones behind wondering why. 
 
Daddy's Boots is a touching description of a few quite moments between a father and his young child as Daddy prepares to deploy.

My Sailor Dad by Ross Mackenzie

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MWSA Review

My Sailor Dad is an extraordinary children's book. The story is both educational and encouraging, while the illustrations are astonishingly intricate and authentic.  
 
Mackenzie presents an endearing story that explains not only the job that Daddy does while he is sailing the vast seas on a big Navy ship, but also explains why he does it. The author's explanation of why takes advantage of an opportune time to instill patriotism and pride into the mind of the very young. The story concludes with the guarantee that no matter where in the world Daddy may be  "Daddy still loves me".           
 
The prose is written in a slightly modified anapestic tetrameter, which is meticulously consistent throughout.  The book has puzzles inside using Naval signal flags.  The title page has "My Sailor Dad" spelled out in flags; and inside the back cover, "the end" is also spelled out in signal. One of the pages is outlined in flags which spells out "10 1776 the quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dogs 09 2001" which represents the birthday of the Navy; the typical sentence that is used in the Navy which utilizes all 26 characters; and commemorates 9/11. Other pages are adorned with replicas of actual Navy-themed U.S. postage stamps, and properly sequenced ribbons.  The colorful facsimiles are sure to have little fingers pointing in awe.
  
Not only will young minds be educated as to the many jobs aboard a Navy ship, they will be captivated by the lively and abundant artwork. The adult reader (even the most experienced Sailor) will be equally impressed with the authenticity of both the story and the illustrations.  
 
This phenomenal children's book delivers a delightful story of comfort and reassurance to the child of a Navy parent. It radiates with a bedtime message that is sure to induce sweet dreams.   

Reviewed by: Claudia Pemberton (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

My Sailor Dad is the first book in the Patriot Kids series. Patriot Kids recognizes the untold sacrifices of every member of America's Armed Forces. Indeed, Ross H. Mackenzie carefully crafted each book to highlight those many sacrifices while also hoping to assist the thousands of families left at home while service members defend our nation overseas.         
 
Our mission is that our books and products will bolster national pride in our service members, be an invaluable resource for service member families, and be engaging, educational books for military kids who are so proud of their parents and yearn to know more about their parent's respective military profession.
 
My Sailor Dad accomplishes these goals. Told from a child's perspective, the book addresses difficult questions that kids ask about deployment like, "Dad, whey you go away, is what you do important?", "Dad, do you still love me when you're gone?", and finally, "Dad, will you ever come home?" My Sailor Dad uses the awesome scale of the Navy to impress the child not only with the grandeur of the physical "things" in the Navy, but also to suggest the massive scale of the sacrifice on both the part of sailor and family. Out for over a year, My Sailor Dad has made a positive difference in the lives of many Navy families. It is on its way to becoming THE book sought out for deploying families.

My Story: Blogs by Four Military Teens by Michelle Sherman and Anne Sherman

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MWSA Review

My Story: Blogs by Four Military Teens is an informative glimpse in the minds of four teenage children of military parents.  Mariah, Adam, Meredith, and Carlos give the reader a "no holes barred" account of their most intimate thoughts and feelings by way of blogging.  Each teen exhibits his or her own unique way of coping with a deployed parent.  Some deal with it by sharing their fears with support groups, while others internalize their anger and pain.  
 
This book is fictional in nature, but realistic by design.  It is an excellent educational tool, which would benefit any military family.  It contains not only the blogs of the teens, but also coping tips and motivational suggestions at the end of each chapter that will help the military child come to terms with his or her feelings.  At the end of the book, there is a section for the readers to document their own story as well.  
 
My Story is an informative little book giving the reader a newfound comprehension of the often forgotten sacrifices made by the children of the American soldier. 
 
Authors Dr. Michelle Sherman, PhD, and Ms. DeAnne Sherman comprise a trained, experienced, and highly motivated writing team focused on helping military families cope (and thrive).  My Story can be purchased through www.SeedsofHopeBooks.com.

Reviewed by: Claudia Pemberton (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

My Story: Blogs by Four Military Teens is a series of blogs by four military teens that highlights their feelings and experiences before, during, and after parental deployment. It provides support and education for all military teens and pre-teens by honoring their unique joys and sacrifices, addressing their fears and hopes, and exploring how parental deployment affects their lives.

Tecumseh: Shooting Star of the Shawnee – Dwight J. Zimmerman

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MWSA Review

Intended for young readers, this is the story of Tecumseh (1768-1813), who rose to become the greatest Chief of the Shawnee. Tecumseh was the most effective Indian leader in regards to uniting other tribes in an effort to keep the United States from taking all of their land. A well thought of man even among whites he along with his brother Tenskwatawa (The Prophet) almost succeeded in their ambitions. Tecumseh was killed in the battle of the Thames in 1813; his British allies had run from the field of battle leaving him and his fellow warriors to continue the battle alone, an act typical of the relationship between Indian and non-Indian.

This textbook story brings out some of the issues that caused a majority of the violence and hatred between settlers and those indigenous to these lands.  Young readers will get a sense of the greatness that was Tecumseh, a leader of unbelievable skills in war and oratory.

This is worth reading to gain some insight into the times and goes further than most textbooks in describing both sides of a conflict that continues even today.

Reviewed by: jim greenwald (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

Tecumseh, a Shawnee chief, had a steadfast goal: protecting Native American rights. After the American Revolution and up through the War of 1812, Shawnee warriors fought alongside the British against the Americans. As a respected leader, Tecumseh attempted to form a pact with other Native Americans to protect their land from United States westward expansion. He became a hero even to his enemies after rescuing American prisoners from massacre. Caught up in a struggle for power, this defiant leader proved that he was also a man of courage and mercy.

Firefight on Brown Water by Lynn Salsi

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MWSA Review

Firefight on Vietnam Brown Water is war seen through the eyes of a scared young man. Al Lupo is a football star at a small college in Pennsylvania, and safe from the draft. But a paperwork error sees him drafted, so he opts for the Navy to avoid being a grunt. His first two years in service are spent in Florida working in air traffic control, but his life gets turned upside down when he receives orders to Vietnam and to SWIFT boats.  Having never seen more violence than a college football game, the young Lupo makes a vow to do whatever it takes to get home in one piece. Will it be enough?

This story is obviously well researched, and the author did an excellent job of putting experiences from several interviewed SWIFT veterans into the story (among the interviewed veterans was her husband). It portrays the rigors of combat and the rawness of being in a combat zone accurately, but without being overly gory or profane. It is a relatively easy read, and contains a helpful glossary and a short but well done picture section. I especially like the author's note at the end, where she explains her reasons for writing the book.  

Vietnam veterans in general and SWIFT or PBR veterans in particular will relate significantly to this book, but anyone who reads it will learn a lot about this little-known aspect of the Vietnam War.

Reviewed by: Rob Ballister (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

Al Lupo, an 18 year old college freshman with a passion for football, lives in a small town near Pittsburgh. He is living his father's dream--playing football, when he is drafted. His world falls apart as he loses his girlfriend and is deprived of his chance to please his father. To avoid serving in Vietnam, Al joins the Navy. Yet, he is ordered to serve on a 50-foot SWIFT boat on the dangerous brown-water rivers of Vietnam, which puts him in the middle of war. He is faced with learning new skills, excelling despite the disdain of officers for enlisted men, living through daily uncertainties, and surviving the war. 
 
With historically accurate scenes and action, this is a different view of the Vietnam War. The story centers on one small crew of men fighting for their country on a small boat in a primitive wilderness environment where rivers are the only roads.  

Finding My Way: A Teenager's Guide to Living with a Parent Who Has Experienced Trauma by Michelle Sherman and DeAnne Sherman

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MWSA Review

This extremely well-written and helpful book offers enlightening guidance and resources for the teen that must face the issue of coping with a parent who has experienced trauma. Written in an easy to understand style, it directly tackles the tough issues that a teenager in this situation must face. Finding My Way offers teenagers many answers to their questions about why their parent acts or reacts in varying disturbing ways. Examples of actual PTSD-related situations and encouraging the teen to write their own experiences with a PTSD affected parent is unique and Finding My Way is a must-read for the teen looking for answers and resources. A wonderfully helpful resource for the teen desperately seeking understanding about this difficult situation.   

Reviewed by: E. Franklin Evans (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

Finding My Way: A Teen's Guide to Living with a Parent Who Has Experienced Trauma is a unique, award-winning three-part book that honestly and gently addresses key issues in dealing with a parent who has experienced trauma. An important resource for anyone working with teens, this interactive book includes clear information and opportunities for self-expression.

Kings of the Green Jelly Moon by Mike Mullins, James Jellerson, Lloyd, and jim greenwald

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MWSA Review

The title “Kings of the Green Jelly Moon” is reflective of the innocence of childhood. Back when children believed the moon to be made of green cheese. An innocence confronted by the reality of Nam. Vietnam cast a long shadow, this CD is our effort to place our emotions on view so hopefully others can gain some peace. We are not trying to justify Vietnam, a war that some believe we should never have been involved in. 

Available from: www.kimoproductions.com, and cdbaby at http://cdbaby.com/cd/gjkm , as well as from the authors.

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Author's Synopsis

The title “Kings of the Green Jelly Moon” is reflective of the innocence of childhood. Back when children believed the moon to be made of green cheese. An innocence confronted by the reality of Nam. Vietnam cast a long shadow, this CD is our effort to place our emotions on view so hopefully others can gain some peace. We are not trying to justify Vietnam, a war that some believe we should never have been involved in. 

Available from: www.kimoproductions.com, and cdbaby at http://cdbaby.com/cd/gjkm , as well as from the authors.

Lucky Enough by Eddie Beesley

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MWSA Review

The audio book Lucky Enough by Cpl. Eddie R. Beesley is a book that should be heard by everyone that wants to listen to a memoir of a very courageous person, who served his country well, but also who was brave enough to tell the story of just how the Viet Nam War affected him, in more ways than the obvious physical loss. If you have the opportunity to read this book or listen to the audio version consider yourself  "lucky enough" to have read a book that just may change your thinking about a time in history when there wasn't the troop support that there is in today's world.  
 
Cpl. Eddie R. Beesley is a hero in my book. The fact that he and his wife, Connie, did the narration for the CD makes it that much more special, in my opinion. Mr. Beesley shares about his life from his early days, how he ventured into the Marine Corps, and life beyond.  He takes his listeners through his life, but intersperses the narration with chapters telling the story about his visit to The Wall in Washington, D.C, which took place thirty years after the day that changed his life forever. Those of us who haven't served and/or sacrificed for our country can only know through a hero's story such as Lucky Enough the strength that it takes for a Viet Nam Veteran to face The Wall. It is a reminder to us about how many men and women have suffered so much.  
 
Mr. Beesley's journey is one of many hills and valleys and readers will travel with him all along the way. He is a Marine through and through and the comparison of who he is today to the young man who enlisted in the USMC at age seventeen reveals a lot about his inner strength.  Be sure to have your Kleenex close at hand when you are listening/reading. It is a touching book about a man who wouldn't let the loss of his legs keep him from moving forward. One would think that was enough to be able to overcome, but other struggles faced Eddie Beesley. Listen along and ask yourself where your inner strength comes from and learn from a man who is a true hero.

Reviewed by: Joyce Gilmour (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

In August, 1965, Marine Corporal Eddie Beesley stepped on a landmine near Chu Lai in Vietnam. The resulting explosion changes his life forever. Lucky Enough is the inspiring story of how Eddie dealt with the most terrible moment of his life. 

Vietnam in Verse – Mike Mullins

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MWSA Review

Vietnam War Poetry That Bares The Human Soul.  Author Mike Mullins states in his book, “It is what it is; a number of poems inviting people to experience what an average soldier felt during a time of war!” “It”, of course, refers to his book of poems about war. The ‘people’ the author refers to are those ‘people’ who have not experienced the wrath of war or felt the incredible affects that combat has on the human psyche … affects a soldier carries with him for the rest of his life … affects that many soldiers can’t cope with … affects that many soldiers can’t or won’t talk about … affects that scarred the minds of many soldiers similar to the physical scars caused by hot shrapnel, bullets, mortars, and rockets that the author talks about in his poem, Hey Medic.

Mike bares his soul in a unique way so others will experience the intangibles of war and thus be able to feel, live, smell, and taste what he did, what others did, what others can’t, don’t, and won’t talk about but are grateful to Mike for being their voice. Mike reveals many facets of war that most ‘people’ never read about or think about … inner consternations that are intense, intimate, and oft times incredibly private. Mike weaves his poetic stories on a literary loom with yarns that expose the inner sanctity, silence, and agonies of war that until now were harbored within his soul much the same as an artist’s brush paints intimate visions on an otherwise blank canvas. Mike’s words leave little doubt that war is a personal hell and that each soldier wages many separate wars within their souls.

Reviewed by: Lloyd A. King (2007)

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Author's Synopsis

I am Michael D. Mullins. I have written a book of poetry, telling my story when I was a grunt in Vietnam. I served there from March 1968 until March 1969. My unit was Delta Company, 3rd Battalion of the 7th Infantry in the 199th Light Infantry Brigade. Our motto was “Light, swift and accurate.” It could have easily been “light, sweaty and persistent.” We were mobile and proved it every day.

The stories I tell are about friends, vets I have met in various situations and my own experiences in the rice paddies of Southeast Asia. I continue to seek stories that inspire, concern, and delight me. They make me thoughtful, proud, and committed to their telling.

I have more to write and will continue to listen to the veterans I encounter on life’s road. There are 8.2 million of us, so I am sure I will not get to everyone, but to those from whom I have already learned and those in my future I offer my gratitude, my respect, and my thanks.

Sailing Away – James Jellerson

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MWSA Review

Not available

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Author's Synopsis

Way Back Home – Jeff Senour & CTS

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MWSA Review

Thumbs up and a star rating to CTS's CD No Turning Back.  Sixteen tracks of modern rock music featuring talent over volume, no matter what age this music will get you out of your chair and on your feet.  This Phoenix based group consisting of; Jeff Senour (Lead Vocals & Guitar), Dave Legassey (Bass Guitar & Vocals), Steve Howes (Lead Guitar & Vocals), and Joe McGinnity (Drums), bring a freshness to good old rock'n-roll.

Deserving of the National acclaim they have received and for their performances before and for the troops here and abroad, having worked with Gary Sinisi and groups like Creedence Clearwater Revival, Molly Hatchett and Petra.

The CD is a great listen, not the cookie cutter rock heard too often today, they are unique in their diversity, ambition and direction as demonstrated on track after track.  Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy, you will not be disappointed, I recommend this CD to all.

A special thanks for their work in helping and supporting our Veterans!  Looking forward to the next CD.

Reviewed by: jim greenwald (2010)

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Author's Synopsis

Earning My Wings by Shirley Dobbins Forgan

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MWSA Review

Life travels faster than her husband’s air force fighter jets in this thirty-one year reflection of constant movement over the globe. Shirley Dobbins Forgan meets a young pilot and they begin their ride in his ’56 Corvette. Two boys and twenty-two moves later, she retires with her Major General. Whether in McAlester, Yugoslavia, or countless other locations, the author meets royalty and reality with the same graceful energy. I wondered if I could do laundry and get a bag packed in the time it took Shirley Forgan to set up a new home, move according to regulations, and set up again in another location somewhere across the world. She juggles the multiple challenges thrown her way with admirable determination. To compact her personal roles and social obligations together reveals a steady hand and strong heart. I can relate to raising two boys. But it’s hard to imagine how Shirley moved her two through nine schools before graduation! Earning My Wings had me reconsider if my own schedules were really that hectic and the author’s world travels never ceased to fascinate me. I recommend this book for anyone thinking they’ve got too much on their plate. The reader will appreciate the gamut of challenges well handled.

Reviewed by: Hodge Wood (2011)

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Author's Synopsis

When Shirley said 'I will' at her wedding to Dave Forgan, she should have added 'I'll move.' At the age of twenty-three, Shirley Dobbins married an air force jet fighter pilot and took off on a globetrotting adventure, from being a first lieutenant's girlfriend to general's wife. Shirley traveled with Dave, all while raising two boys and fulfilling all the duties of a military wife with a sense of humor and dedication. Readers will discover the life of a military wife, a lifestyle certainly not for sissies. It takes a special woman, willing to make sacrifices, but the rewards are remarkable. There are happy occasions, exciting travels, sad times, hilarious incidents, proud moments, and lifelong friends to be made. Military wives and mothers will find comfort and joy in these pages, and civilian women will gain insight into this exclusive world. Join Shirley as she wings her way on this journey in Earning My Wings. It's an unforgettable ride and delight.

Targeted Killing by Thomas B. Hunter

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MWSA Review

World-wide terrorism has created an environment where it has become necessary for nations to target individuals known to be a present or future threat to those nations' safety and security. This action, known as targeted killing, is distinguished from assassination in that assassination is committed for political or ideological reasons.

Targeted killing, therefore, can be said to be an act of self-defense by a nation; it has no regard for politics or ideology, while assassination is an act that is committed for purely political or ideological reasons.

The reader is lead through a definition of both terms, then presented with state studies, involving targeted killing, of three prominent nations. These state studies provide the reader with an objective look at why targeted killing is sometimes necessary. It also has examples of failed attempts at targeted killing, and the consequences of failed or incomplete targeted killing missions. These consequences can include collateral damage, like the unintentional killing of civilians, or the martyrdom of the terrorist.

Targeted Killing was originally published as a paper that appeared in Henley-Putnam University's Journal of Strategic Security. Its bibliography is extensive and detailed, and it is to be recommended for anyone who has an interest in global terrorism and how it relates to safety and security.

Reviewed by: Larry Wikoff (2011)

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Author's Synopsis

Targeted Killing: Self-Defense, Preemption, and the War on Terrorism by Thomas Hunter presents a reasoned, impeccably researched, and multi-faceted analysis of the tactic of targeted killing assessing its role, efficacy, and appropriateness in the current world political and military climate. Target killing is just one available option to national governments in their varied arsenals of state-sponsored strategies and tactics for fighting terrorism. Nevertheless, it is one of the most controversial and logistically dangerous options a government can exercise in preemptive strikes against real and current threats to national security. Author Hunter skillfully maneuvers through the moral, military, political, and tactical issues that can both cloud and clarify a government’s implementation of state-sponsored targeted killing. Written with an expert and precise understanding of the issue, Targeted Killing offers an objective and indispensable perspective on a contentious and timely debate.