Author’s Note

Nick Kehoe’s name should appear on the cover of this book as its co-author. He has lent his good counsel and strong insights to this project at every step of the way since it began. But typically he not only sought no credit but actively refused it. However much he may downplay his role, though, I know how crucial he has been in getting Choosing Courage done and how lucky I have been to have the pleasure of his company during its completion.

I want to thank the David Horowitz Freedom Center, where I work, for establishing a context for this book. And my old friend Wally Nunn, who helped make Choosing Courage happen, as he has other good things. Thanks as well to Tom Wilkerson and Ron Rand of the Medal of Honor Foundation for seeing value in this project. And of course thanks, too, to the heroes whose stories are told here. They reinforce the old lesson: We are the land of the free only because we are also the home of the brave.

Thanks to Ann Bramson of Artisan Books, who was present in every way at the creation of this book. To Laurie Orseck, whose resourcefulness, patience, and deft editorial touch were decisive in shaping the final product. And to Lelia Mander for getting the manuscript over all the hurdles that lead to the printing press, and Kara Strubel for her compelling art direction.

I see this book as a kiss for my wife, Mary Jo, and hope it will be an inspiration for the Collier grandchildren—Eden Guthrie, James Wyeth, Mercy Josephine, and Peter William—all of them lights of my life.