The numerous US military actions of the twentieth century have spanned the globe and led to innumerable consequences, but one truth is undeniable: without our military heroes, all would be lost. Yet even after these soldiers finally return home, many face incredible-and insurmountable-challenges.
From noted historical nonfiction writer Franklin Hook comes this compelling true tale of one particular invasion and one particular man. This study is based on interviews, firsthand documentation, court-martial testimonies, and newspaper articles-but the story it tells goes beyond dry facts to reveal a profound human tragedy.
Bruce Beard was one of many soldiers involved in the controversial US invasion of Panama in 1989 and its terrible aftermath. Despite a record of good conduct, his service was marred by drug abuse. Without the resources to deal with his problem, Beard fell apart until he ended up with a bad conduct discharge.
Since returning home, Beard has been denied care for his PTSD because of that label. And there are more like him, struggling veterans who can't get the help they need. These soldiers have taken the fall in a less-than-perfect system of military justice. This is their story.
About the Author: Franklin Hook is the author of Never Subdued, a true history of the Philippine-American War, and Radical Islam: Never Subdued II, which details the rise of Islam from several unique perspectives and includes the ten commandments of Muslim diplomacy. His other works include Pinky and Desert Storm Diary, both of which focus on military experiences.
A retired physician and radiologist, Dr. Hook graduated from Stanford University and the Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Jefferson University in Philadelphia. He also served as an associate professor of radiology at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine.
Dr. Hook is a veteran of both the US Army and Navy. He served three years of active duty with the navy and commanded the 311th Evacuation Hospital during the first Gulf War. He also served in the army reserve. A member of the American Legion and VFW, Dr. Hook lives in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
