This is the first book in a trilogy. Book One: Donovan's Skirmish cover the early years of Jack Donovan who, without funds to continue his college degree, with the draft in effect leaves school and ends up enlisting as a private in the army. The first book will follow his early years as an enlisted man then a non-commissioned officer with two tours in Vietnam. Jack continues to distinguish himself and is awarded the Medal of Honor for heroic actions during his second tour. He is seriously wounded and spends months at Walter Reed Hospital for multiple surgeries and rehab. For his numerous valorous actions he obtains a special furlough and completes his degree at the University of Maryland and through the ROTC program is commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant. During his two years at Maryland he meets Mary Clarke, finishing her masters degree and planning to complete her Ph.D. in American Literature. After a stormy romance, but with similar interests, philosophically in agreement with their passion for such authors as Victor Hugo, Ayn Rand and others they marry as the first book end and they start their journey together.