The Memoirs of an American Gladiator

About the Book

     This publication was written after an active service career in the United States Army.  Snared for the first time in the midst of emotional challenges that could not be solved with military training, the struggles require solutions beyond military strategy. The uncertain times compelled a desperate need for answers.   Frustrated at the notion no one understood, life began dismantling. 

     With a desire for relief, the punishing distractions demanded resolution.  There was a need to connect with someone that could provide a way out of the dark confusion of despair.  The answers didn’t come in traditional ways.  

     The initial attempt at capturing a sense of purpose proved futile.   Reaching for someone to hang on to was critical.  It was saddening that that someone wasn’t my father.  He died approximately 20 years earlier.  Yet, in the search for answers, prayer became the medium that provided the comfort and harmony needed to live.  Though it seems simplistic, the transformation didn’t come easily. 

     The prayers permitted a look at the growth years for resolution.  Reflected upon a disadvantaged past offered a new prospective.  Surprisingly, the horrors and the underprivileged past were remembered with fondness.  Though there were tragedies over the years, they were recalled with less dread.  Somehow, the most terrible occasions were viewed with the wisdom of growth.  The occasions that were once viewed through the eyes of a child/young adult carried a different meaning as a mature adult.   Through it all, it’s satisfying to note God was present along the way.   

       As the stories within the book develop, there are subtle references to God’s Grace as those around are empowered for my benefit.  Several stories highlight the Grace of God in a more dynamic way.   It is a story of God’s presence within the lives of those of us that live ordinary existences.   

About the Author

    I was born in Newellton Louisiana on August 5^th 1946.  As the second born to a family with an end count of twelve, 5 boys and 5 girls, mom and dad were inspirational examples for all.  At a very young age, we moved to Hot Springs Arkansas prior to the birth of the majority of the clan.  I attended Douglass Elementary School and Langston High School. 

     In the twelfth grade, I enlisted for the draft and ultimately began a career in the United States Army.  The enlistment in the Army involved travels and experiences unmatched by the mundane lifestyle in Hot Springs Arkansas. 

      My career continued for 24 years.  As a retired Sergeant Major and a graduate of the United States Army Sergeants Majors Academy, a career was filled with challenges.  Academy graduation epitomized the peak of accomplishment and recognized by notable awards and accomplishments (i.e. Numerous military leadership courses, schools, an undergrad degree, and post graduate work, several local written newspapers articles).

     After a career severing illness, retired and pleasuring on moments of achievement, the 24-years with the military provided growth and an appreciation for life struggles. Reflections offered justification and value for the tumultuous experiences.   Even though logic could be found in life’s journey, the Vietnam experiences wouldn’t go away.  

     In an effort to expunge the limitless nervous encounters of combat and personal experiences around the world, subconsciously, I embarked on a journey to relieve the silent anxiety stirring within.   Experiencing a collapsing world from all sides, there were no answers for the sleepless nights and perpetual anxiety suffered in combat.  Dealing with a failed marriage, a failing heart that could not take another attack, bankruptcy, and the bi-weekly Post Traumatic Stress sessions at the local veteran hospital presented no solutions.  Frustrations mounted expeditiously.