What is a Hero?: The American Heroes Press Short Story Anthology

Hi Tech Criminal Justice (Author)

Review by Zach Foster

After a long wait, the book that law enforcement and military enthusiasts have been waiting for is here! After much discussion between police and military writers and readers on the subject of heroism and selfless service, American Heroes Press hosted a writing contest in which AHP followers could submit a true story about someone who is a hero to them. Many stories were submitted, and this short story anthology, What Is A Hero?, is the result, compiling the best stories about police officers, fire fighters, and soldiers who have made a difference in the lives of ordinary citizens.

The contest's first place winner, James Drew Pointkouski's "Tun Tavern Fraternity" is extremely well written, and by the engaging content of this story about "Mr. Grey" and the elite Marine commandos it almost seems like a Hollywood movie, a masterful fusion of James Bond and the United States Marines. One could definitely see the likelihood of Pointkouski writing a book about his years in the Marine Corps, hopefully including reminiscences of his combat experiences. Such a memoir could even be more memorable than Anthony Swofford's Jarhead! The second place winner, James H. Lilley's "The Legend of `Sweet Bobby' Moore" is a great story, which through the presentation of anecdotes testifies to the heroism of one of America's boys in blue. After the tired Good Cop/Bad Cop routine being presented in pop novels and on television, it's refreshing to have a true story about a cop whose adventures (or antics) are both heroic and absolutely hilarious! Sweet Bobby is the guy whose 4th of July barbeque one would want to attend.

Steve Gilmore's "The Day Cambria Got Buzzed" takes the bronze, paying tribute to the dying heroes of the World War II generation. Amidst the endless barrage of WWII combat movies and video games, in the era of Saving Private Ryan, Band of Brothers, The Pacific, and Call of Duty, this story presents a seldom seen picture of the excitement that took place here on the home front and the witnessing of the legendary Flying Fortress in its days of glory. From war-torn Europe to the jungles of Vietnam, from the streets of New York to the hills of California, this exciting book pays tribute to heroes who proudly serve the community and the country. As exciting, action packed and out-of-this-world as they may seem, these stories are anything but adventure fiction. These stories are true, and are a testament to the courage and heroism of those who work tirelessly to make America a safer place to live. This book is a hit and there will hopefully be more to come!