TO LIVE A PATRIOT: The Story
In this stirring story of love, faith, and patriotism, a young Illinois farmer struggles to serve his country as an elite Union sharpshooter and return to the woman he loves.
Based on a treasure trove of authentic Civil War love letters, "TO LIVE A PATRIOT" chronicles the journey of Union soldier John Doak, a farmer from Paris, Illinois who is torn between his love of country and his newfound love for Emma Guthrie. John risks everything when he leaves Emma behind to join an elite regiment called the “Western Sharpshooters.” From the bloodsoaked fields of Fort Donelson and Shiloh to the desperate march to Atlanta, John's harrowing journey through America's most devastating conflict tests not only his courage but his very soul. For three years John fights Confederate rebels, chronic illness, and his own demons as he dreams of returning to Illinois to build a life with the woman he loves. John's letters to and from Emma become his lifeline to humanity and hope. This meticulously researched epic novel weaves a powerful tale of love, honor, and patriotism against the backdrop of a nation fighting for its very existence.
About the Author: Owen C. Doak
Born and raised in Rock Island, Illinois, I have been a high school history teacher in the northwest suburbs of Chicago for the past thirty one years. I received my B.A. in history at Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri while playing Division II football. I received my M.A.T. at the University of Illinois at Chicago, with a major in American history.
I am married to the beautiful, lovely, and talented Mrs. Doak. We have three children, two dogs, and live in the Chicago suburbs.
At left I am posing at the Paris, Illinois gravesite of Union soldier John Whitfield Newton Doak, my great great grandfather and the protagonist of my novel. Corporal John Doak enlisted in Birge's Western Sharpshooters in September of 1861. He fought in Boone County, Missouri, Fort Donelson and Shiloh, Tennessee, Corinth, Mississippi, and the campaign for Atlanta. He considered himself a patriot. In fact, in a letter dated March 19th, 1862, he referred to himself as "one of Uncle Sam's boys."
Like my grandfather, I believe we must all continue to fight for the best of American ideals: liberty, equality, and democracy for ALL. Some patriots, like Corporal Doak, join the armed forces and risk everything to defend the nation. Other patriots volunteer to help improve their local community. Still others speak out against racism, intolerance, and authoritarianism. I encourage all patriots to continue to support the best of American values, stay informed and engaged in civic affairs, and defend our nation and our Constitution from "all enemies, foreign and domestic."
Agent or Publisher? Feel free to contact me:
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities to get my novel in front of readers. Let's connect.
TO LIVE A PATRIOT Hall of Fame: In Memorium
The wonderful Americans below have inspired me with their love of history, their kindness, and their love of America. All have influenced me to become the kind of person who could write this novel. All were true patriots who knew exactly what it meant to be an American and had tremendous empathy, compassion, and respect for everyone. Interestingly, all of them grew up during the Great Depression and, along the way, learned and embraced the best of American values. Not surprisingly, each chose a life of service and sacrifice for the greater good. This novel is part of their living legacy.
