As I Turn the Pages of Life

About the Book

Dear Reader,

I would like to introduce you to a literary novel, based on true facts, entitled As I Turn The Pages of Life. Prior to leaving for Vietnam one of the most tantalizing love stories you will ever read began to encompass my life. Woven among the pages through this almost unbelievable story, you will come to know me. This chapter of my life ended in tragedy. A tragedy that would engulf my life for many years to come until I was able to go back to the little dirt lane back on the farm to gain final closure

As I Turn The Pages of Life begins with life''s first memories. Those memories were of my Grandfather, a very distinguished gentleman whose relationship I continue to cherish even today. The story begins where I grew up, on a farm in West Tennessee during the 50''s. I lived in fear of the military after finishing high school for the next four years, knowing Vietnam was a place from which I could not escape, I was drafted in the spring of 1968, and my fears came true when in August of 1968 I landed in Bien Hoa South Vietnam. I became a member of the 101^st. Airborne Division and over the course of the next twelve months earned two Bronze Stars and the Air Medal.

I truly believe I returned from Vietnam alive only by the Grace of God with help from my Grandmother. She passed away while I was in Vietnam and became my special Angel, guiding me through the many battles yet to come. She remains my special Angel to this day.

There was also another reason to stay alive while in Vietnam. A precious young lady was waiting for me to return. When I arrived home from Vietnam and tuned into her driveway she placed her arms around me and at that moment I truly understood the meaning of love. Through this love story we shared a tragedy and separation that I believe will captivate the hearts of those who read it. The tragedy of her death was almost more than I could bear until returned to the little dirt lane on the farm gaining final closure.

About the Author

After leaving the military in 1971, I became a member of the corporate world for a few years prior becoming an entrepreneur. After several years of owning and operating different businesses, I decided to sell my assets and move to the mountains of North Georgia to reflect back on my life. I needed to know whom I was or had become, and if I truly liked this person. To do this I chose to write a book telling my life''''s story to a most gracious young lady, my daughter. I understood that this task had been put off for many years, and would be difficult. Tears flowed with each stroke of the pen, but I knew in my heart this I had to do. I honestly believe each word written is inspired from a higher power without whom I could not have accomplished this task.

I have now come full circle and moved back to Tennessee. Some of my most cherished moments are going out to The Old Home Place, sitting in the grove under the shade of the Ancient Oak Trees if only to reminisce about the years gone past.