Welcome! Whether you've come to shop for a book, to inquire about my professional services, or just to look around, I hope you enjoy your stay. The following is a brief bio:
I am a native of Canton, Illinois and graduated from Monmouth College (IL) in 1983 with a B.A. in History/Education. I hold a Master's Degree in History from Western Illinois University and graduated from the U.S. Army Intelligence School. I was the Director of Public and Sport Information at Monmouth College (1983-85), and have worked as a reporter, photojournalist, and radio sports commentator. I proudly served with U.S. Army intelligence at home and abroad (1988-92) and was a member of two U.S. All-Army Track & Field teams. I have been a high school special education teacher since 1997, and since 2001, have co-owned ChingPhoto photography studio.
My first book (Silent Warriors of WWII: The Alamo Scouts Behind Japanese Lines), was released in 1995, and is the first published history of the Alamo Scouts, an elite reconnaissance and raider unit of World War II. Since that time, I have authored, co-authored, or contributed to 11 additional books and hundreds of articles from military history to self-help to fiction. In 1999, I began working as a freelance writer, editor, researcher, and consultant for television documentaries and motion pictures, including the History Channel, Japan TV, Universal Studios, WWII TV, and others. In 2012, I formed War Room Press and publish a variety of titles under that imprint. I also speak on military and veteran affairs throughout the country.
Since 2003, I have served as the official historian of the Alamo Scouts Historical Foundation, a not-for-profit historical and educational organization dedicated to preserving and advancing the legacy of the Alamo Scouts. I also serve as the co-editor of RECON Magazine and co-host the War Room Broadcast Podcast.
If you have an incredible story that needs to be told or if you want to discuss my writing, speaking, or photography services, please email me.
