A moving account of one family's journey through grief and healing following the death of their son in Iraq.
David and Deborah Tainsh were living the happiest years of their lives until the dark morning of February 12, 2004, when a six a.m. knock at the door brought the news that their son, Sergeant Patrick Tainsh, had been killed in Iraq. David's only child, Patrick was the son who overcame a rebellious, drug-addicted youth to become an outstanding U.S. Army Cavalry Scout, posthumously awarded the Bronze and Silver Stars for saving the lives of his commanding officer and other soldiers before succumbing to his own wounds.
In the wake of their loss, David and Deborah battle horrific grief and anger while trying to hold their marriage--and one another--together in an unforgettable journey toward healing.
Be prepared to cry. Be prepared to learn. Be prepared to change. ... --Maria Edwards, Military Writers Society of America
Military Writers Society of America Spirit of Freedom Award
Branson Stars & Flags Book Award - Silver
About the Author: DEBORAH TAINSH is an award-winning author of nonfiction, fiction, and poetry.
When Deborah's stepson, U. S. Army Sgt. Patrick Tainsh, was killed by a roadside bomb in Iraq on February 11, 2004, she began writing about the experience initially to sort out her own grief. She captured the raw and tender moments of her family's sorrow and remembrance. Her book Heart of a Hawk: One family's sacrifice and journey toward healing brings readers into the Tainsh family's living room as Deborah and her husband, retired USMC Sergeant Major David L. Tainsh, hear the tragic news of their son's death and begin their struggle toward acceptance and peace.
Deborah's volunteer work with grieving families inspired her to compile stories from other Gold Star parents in Surviving the Folded Flag: Parents of war share stories of coping, courage, and faith.
Her poems are included in the National Endowment for the Arts archives of Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience.
