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MWSA Book Review

Lucky Enough

Author:  Eddie R. Beesley

Publisher:  River Road Press

Reviewer: W. H. McDonald – President of Military Writers Society of America

A Real Hero Then and Now!

Sometimes you follow someone’s life in the media and you wonder if this guy is all what he seems to be. For those many veterans and handicapped people out there who have been helped because of the personal efforts of Eddie R. Beesley, then reading his short memoir will make you a believer, once again, in heroes. His book “Lucky Enough” is about doing something positive regardless of what life deals you.

Eddie tells his story of growing up poor on a farm and going on to become a U.S. Marine. He talks about his tour of duty in Vietnam and about the events that lead to his losing both legs to a land mine explosion. But this is not the main focus of his tale. Once you dig a little deeper into his book you find how he used what life has presented to him to help himself and others. He has become a champion for the handicapped in this nation. He fought for public awareness and accommodations for those in wheel chairs at a time when he was one of the few lone voices speaking out.

His story is one of great physical and emotional pain. But he leaves you upbeat. He inspires you by his attitude to be of service to others. I was enthralled with his life story. My only regret was that it was not any longer as there were still things about Eddie that I would have liked to have learned about him. 

He writes it simple and straight forward to the point. His pains and suffering are understated and briefly exposed. He was not writing his story looking for pity or to win any symphony but as a proud man – no, make that a PROUD MARINE! He is a fine example of that special breed of veteran that wears the USMC uniform with honor!

I think this book will give many additional insights into PTSD and related veteran issues. I highly recommend this book if you are looking to read something about war and want to become inspired. It will make you want to give Eddie both a hug and a salute. He is a true American Hero!

This book gets the MWSA’s top rating of FIVE STARS! It also receives my personal endorsement. Buy it and read it!

Visit the author's website at:  www.LuckyEnoughTheBook.com