In this inspiring episode of Helping The Brave, host Ed Parcaut welcomes Joseph Bolton, a 25-year Army veteran, author, and storyteller. Joseph shares his candid journey from enlisting right out of high school—at the insistence of his father—to reluctantly starting on what would become a distinguished military career. He recounts his experiences as a combat engineer, his turbulent path to and through West Point, surviving the infamous rigors of Ranger School, and serving as a space operations officer during a transformative time in U.S. Army history.
After retiring from the Army, Joseph found new purpose as a project manager for the Air Force and as an author, weaving together his family's French Canadian and Native American history with enchanting folklore and vibrant illustrations. Joseph discusses the creative process behind his book series, "Old Grandmother's Tree," and reflects on the power of storytelling—both for personal healing and for keeping ancestral legacies alive.
This episode dives deep into themes of resilience, adaptation, and the search for meaning after military service. Whether you're a veteran, a lover of history, or an aspiring writer, Joseph's story is packed with insight, humor, and hard-won wisdom.
Learn more about Joseph's books: oldgrandmotherstree.com
**Contact Ed Parcaut:** - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com) - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)
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