This story excerpt is reposted with permission from the Vancouver, Canada-based Afro News, a publication for which Military Success Network’s Managing Editor, wrote this original article about the memoir of Lt. Cdr. Joseph C. Marston, RCN, CD, DSC. The Canadian Navy officer, born in May 1916, wrote meticulous notes in his lifelong journal. After more than 50 years of continuous service on the seas, he retired. On his passing, his journals remained to be edited by his son J.C. Marston, Jr. who felt it might appeal to veterans and their families. In reality, it is a record for anyone interested in the events and conditions that impacted sailors on board ships in the service of Canada in both wartime and peacetime – with specific reference to the years 1930-1945. [Read more…]
Site co-founders’ book blends service, heritage and legacy in Hidden Wounds: A Soldier’s Burden
Lessons in the marketplace were the unanticipated deliverables in the boxes of their own books. They arrived fresh off the presses onto the door steps of co-authors, Marius Tecoanta and Nate Brookshire.
WoW – Words on Wednesdays will ultimately visit the PROCESS of publishing – the battles waged to get military writers’ words to their audiences successfully. Today, we’ll continue with the CREATIVE process, in our coverage of Military writers, cartoonists, essayists, authors and bloggers…
Your nominations for future posts are welcome!
Now, it’s (this) editor’s choice. Getting this book out is what brought the three of us, Helena, Marius and Nate together-to tell a story of two families. Our growth as a team and understanding of the scope of the subject grew into a new mission.
We knew we wanted to create more space for the critical stories of our time, told by and for others. Stories of transformation and of resilience lived by military members in transition back to their civilian life, possibly new work and studies and to their family life. [Read more…]
Review: In the Shadow of a Mountain by Sue Daigneault
In the Shadow of a Mountain [Kindle Edition]
Susan Dahlgren Daigneault (Author)
Available at Amazon
Susan Dahlgren Daigneault, author of “In the Shadow of a Mountain” gives us an invitation into the family of Medal of Honor recipient Edward C. Dahlgren. This is a deeply personal account of the life of a true hero. It has many layers and gives the reader insight into the character of a man who epitomized selfless service, humility, integrity and honor. [Read more…]
An Editorial Milestone & Epiphany
January 6, marked not only Epiphany Day, but also the passage past the half way point of the first year of Military Success Network. The site is dedicated to bringing to light the stories and resources that support resilient transition from military to civilian life and work.
This significant public day is celebrated in its religious context in specific ways in the USA and in cultures all over the world.
Interestingly, the secular meaning of epiphany, also marks the movement from one state of knowing and experience to another. It involves light, search and hopefully, celebration in what is found.
It denotes the power of change. [Read more…]
Where in the world is Lt. Col.(Ret)Gordon Cucullu?
- Valhalla Project
- Gordon Cucullu’s special day, book and project
- Military Police regiment’s 71st celebration
At last contact, he is doing a world of good, along with his writing and life partner, Chris Fontana at Valhalla, in Yellville, Arkansas.
Gordon Cucullu, Image credit bookperk.com
Retired Army Lt. Col. Gordon Cucullu was in the Special Forces and saw combat in Vietnam and El Salvador. Now this Green Beret is seeing action as an author, columnist, and speaker, much of it in support of the Valhalla Project.
He’ll be reporting in soon with an official update to Military Success Network on what’s happening at Valhalla. It’s designed as a working and recreational retreat for post-9/11 combat soldiers and war zone civilian workers. Transition from military to civilian life is uniquely supportive at Valhalla. [Read more…]
Writing Life Based on Military Experiences
This has been an interesting year to say the least.
Our book, Hidden Wounds: A Soldier’s Burden was published and found its official launch on November 15th, 2011 while I was deployed.
Marius and I received a lot of positive feedback. The most common responses to us getting published were, “That’s cool.” and “How did that happen?” with the latter often said with surprise and wonderment.
We both appreciated the “That’s cool!” and have yet to fully answer the “How did that happen?” [Read more…]
Return to Civilian Life Helped By Mindset
Military Success Network guest author Phyllis Zimbler Miller
Military life develops many life and operational skills. The transition from military to fulltime civilian family life combined with potential new occupations and daily community participation brings with it opportunities and challenges. Awareness, preparation and specific supports help military men and women return to civilian life. For starters, it requires an open mindset.
Military Success Network begins the guest posts from “people who have been there” and done and learned “that”. Posts and articles will cover the process and the people and resources to boost success for those in transitions. What’s YOUR story? Do you see your self in this one? [Read more…]
The Space A Blanket Covers
Wrapped up in a bit of security
Stepping off the plane after my fourth deployment I saw my anxious family waiting. Then they were running. That scene was to record one of the top moments in my life and it was definitely an emotional roller coaster.
My twin boys were clutching their blankets. It being midnight, they were well past their bedtime. As I picked them up I noticed how tightly they held on, not to me but to their blankets. I also noticed that both blankets were well-worn and a little frayed. What I didn’t know was the routine they had with their “Be Be”s and how important their “security” blankets were to them. [Read more…]
Yankabilly Comedian Sheila Van Dyke “Pokes” Army to Git-R-Done
My favorite breakfast spot while stationed at Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter, South Carolina, was the golf course snack bar. The routine was to appear around 0930 just as breakfast was closing. After awhile, the ladies knew my order and the portions started to increase as did the frequency of my visits.
As I left the building, feeling pretty content with my belly full of a Western omelet and home fries that would have buckled anyone under the weight of 200 pounds, I ran into Sheila Van Dyke. [Read more…]
Military Success Network Recognizes and Reports on Transitions
The “Military Success Network” presents the many faces of the American military. Through writing for and by the men and women of the armed forces, the site addresses what is involved in the transition experience of returning veterans.
It serves not only as a forum but also as a resource and constructive news and networking hub. The aim is to positively support armed forces veterans, their families, colleagues and employers. Upcoming posts will share the issues, programs and services related to veterans as well as personal stories of individual transformations and adaptations of military experiences to civilian life.