Mark Andrew Beach

Onward Christmas Soldiers: Inspired by True Events and Others Not So True Mark Andrew Beach

When I was seven years old during the sixties, all I wanted for Christmas was a GI Joe. My best friend's little sister reluctantly let me improvise with her "Ken" doll, but I was tired of him. He didn't have an action grip like the real GI Joes' and the other guys were always beating him up. I nagged my parents incessantly. My mom always said she did not want me glorifying war as her reason for not getting me what I wanted. I knew that was only half the story. The other issue was really about money, or the lack thereof. Then one day my life changed... This is a tender and touching story of young boys, worlds and years apart who learn that the true spirit of Christmas is not just about giving, but personal sacrifice. These boys grow to manhood without their fathers. They are in pain and anger because of unanswered questions about what happened decades before to their dads in Vietnam. However, due to a series of miraculous events, the mystery, which the reader is privileged to behold is revealed to the boys, who come together as men through their connection - a GI Joe and their hearts are both healed by The Great Physician. This story is deeply personal for me because some of the events are true, others inspired and still others completely fiction. It will have you laughing one moment and crying the next, so be sure to have a box of tissues handy. It is a poignant story of Christmas, giving, sacrifice, war, love, overcoming trials and respect for our parents. It will challenge you to keep the spirit of Christmas all year round.