To my family, who helped me do the research for the book and then stood back and made me look smart. We know who the real smart ones are: to my mother, Bettye Fisher, for her relentless prayers; my husband, Ric; and my children, Danielle, Micah, and Caleb, who sacrificed so much.
To my friends, who encouraged me along the way. To Shirley Pope Waite, my mother’s friend, who years ago encouraged me to write. To my friend since childhood, Kristin Dewey, who always believed in me. To Randy LaBarge, who said, “This is a story that has to be told. What can I do to help?” Your belief in my father and his story breathed new life into the book. To Christine Koehler, your faith in me was contagious.
To the many people who prayed for this project. To Chuck Hindman, for writing the memorial for Mal and for encouraging us to create an intentional time of remembrance. To Ed and Nila Hamshar, for listening.
To Master Chief Intelligence Specialist (Surface Warfare), David L. Murdock U.S.N. (Ret.), a stranger who became a friend. Thank you for lending me your expertise in naval intelligence. You were a lifeline when I needed one.
To Lt. Col. Richard Dixon, U.S. Army (Ret.), who whispered in my ear, “You have to get this book published. It’s not just for your father. It’s for all of us.”
To Dr. Jauhiainen, “Dr. J.,” MD, for understanding PTSD and its impact on my father. And for taking the time during your busy workday to listen to his story.
To the strangers who shook my father’s hand and thanked him for his service. Words can never express how important each instance was to him.
To the veterans of wars both past and present. Thank you for your sacrifices that continue long after you return. You are not forgotten. Your story matters.
To the family and friends of veterans, for welcoming our heroes home and for helping them put the pieces of their lives back together long after the homecoming celebration is over.
To the Pacific Northwest Writer’s Association for putting together a conference that was instrumental in getting this work published.
To all of the wonderful and passionate people at Sourcebooks. And especially to my editor, Peter Lynch, for believing in this book.