This month we're doing things a little different and talking with an active duty author! It was such a nice change of pace to get to know Jacob Kelly. Jacob writes poetry and his poems touch anyone who has chosen a life of service! I was able to read an excerpt from a poem on his publisher's site and I am really interested to read more!
What branch of the military are you affiliated with?
- US Army
How long have you been in the military?
- 14 years, still active duty. Current rank: Major.
What is your favorite part about being in the military?
- The camaraderie and brotherhood that still exist among military personnel and families. It is an inherent bond between all of us that is clearly apparent the moment we come into contact.
What would you say is your biggest challenge being in the military?
- Time. The time you spend away from family. The time that seems to fly by when you come home after being away and your children have grown in years rather than seconds. Picking up where you left off is a deliberate action each time.
What is one piece of advice you would like to share with our current military families?
- Get better every day. This was the motto of a mentor of mine who was killed in Afghanistan in 2018. He was not just referring to physical fitness or warrior skills, but to life in general. Pick something every day and improve it. Whether it is your health, a skill, your marriage, or a passion; pick something and get better every day.
How or why did you decide to become an author?
- I have always been a writer, however, in 2018 I lost two really good friends in Afghanistan and had a great Soldier under my command commit suicide. I struggled with these losses for a long time until 2022 when I turned to writing to work through my thoughts. One thing led to another and now I have this book out.
What book has been your favorite that you have written so far?
- The Spurs of Service is my only book.
Do you have more books planned for the future?
- Possibly. I write to understand and I write in hopes to connect and help others. Depending on where that leads me, I would gladly write another book.
What author inspires you?
- Robert Frost. I do not have the space here to provide the full context, however if you were to read his life story you would develop a new appreciation for his poetry. Poems of peace, calmness, and beauty were written by a person whose life was marked by continual tragedy.
What’s a random fact about you we should know?
- I was born and raised in Texas, but I recently purchased land in Northwest Montana where I plan to retire in the mountains
Anything else you would like to share?
- Do not be afraid to hear the word “no.” Since I began the journey of writing this book, multiple friends and family have reached out to encourage my effort while also admitting they always wanted to, but were afraid. Write the book. Chase the passion. If the worst outcome is someone telling you “no,” then there really isn’t much of a risk is there?
Book Titles:
I'm so grateful that Jacob was willing to give us his time and a new perspective on military life as a successful author. I can't wait to see what he has to offer in the future! Thank you Jacob!
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