What a thrill! A few days ago I received an unexpected email from a remarkable man -- Bill McDonald, a Vietnam vet who served as a Huey crew chief and door gunner. He's also a poet, memoirist, and spiritual warrior. When I read Bill's note, I was bowled over: I'd won the 2015 Founder's Award for The Assassins from the Military Writers Society of America (MWSA). It's the highest prize MWSA gives.
This is an organization close to my heart. Its membership comprises more than 2,000 current and retired U.S. servicemen and servicewomen and supporters of them. They range from New York Times best-sellers and prize winners to weekend writers whose goal is important -- to record their lives for their families.
According to the MWSA press release, “This award recognizes literary achievement and good story telling. The Assassins is an excellent example of both -- a riveting, spell-binding, spy thriller. The entire organization salutes her excellence!”
I'll receive the award September 26th in Phoenix at the MWSA annual banquet. And earlier that day, I'll be signing books at the legendary Poisoned Pen.
I've already got my plane tickets. Thank you, thank you, thank you, MWSA!