News stories of American military lost or injured in service of our Country are often fleeting, replaced within days by newer news stories. It is our responsibility as individuals to remember, and honor the service and sacrifice of our servicemembers and civilian contractors as well as their families, loved ones, friends, long after the news stories end. Ron Farina's latest book Sacrifice accompanies the reader through these sacrifices in a way that is emotional, educational, and most importantly respectful. Farina's storytelling provides an emotional look into the specific acts of sacrifice-using each person's unique perspective to tell their stories. As an RN with the Fisher House of Boston I have yet to read a book that relays the stories of sacrifice we hear about each day as accurately as Sacrifice does. Sacrifice is, no doubt, a must read for each and every American!
-Abigail Deluca, MHS, BSN, RN
Director of Operations, Fisher House of Boston
In Sacrifice: the Final Chapter, Ron Farina's Vietnam war experience enables him to capture the essence of military service and sacrifice, not only by these inspirational men and women warriors, but also by the remarkable people left behind. Sacrifice profiles courageous Gold Star family members and friends caught in the wake of untimely and tragic loss, left to endure countless unanswered questions, unfilled dreams, and an unfathomable range of emotions. I know two of the families profiled in this book, Helen Keiser-Pedersen, her husband Bob, and Pat and Michael Parry. Overcoming their own grief, they vowed "to do good" in the name of their sons, Andrew and Brian. Helen and Bob established APK Charities in memory of Andrew. Pat and Michael established a scholarship at Brian's alma mater, Norwich University, donating over $2 million in scholarships and gifts. These are just two examples of the caliber of the families and friends of the fallen.
I found the book incredible. Having served on the ground during combat operations in Afghanistan, many topics hit very close to home. Our country must always honor and remember these true patriots, and their loved ones, lost in service and defense of our great nation.
-Brigadier Gen. Ron Welch (retd.), US Army
Operation Enduring Freedom Veteran
Vivid, haunting, and profoundly moving. Ron Farina's eloquent, captivating book carries the reader from the dark heart of the battlefield to the harrowing challenges friends and family encounter when their beloved one doesn't make it home. These heroes sacrificed their lives, but they are not dead. They have been and their existence is anchored in the meta-physical being. A comforting thought.
This is writing so powerful that it steals your breath. A great read.
-Dr. Viscount Mark Eyskens, Minister of State, fmr. prime minister of Belgium
