Downriver: Memoir of a Warrior Poet

Ryan returned from the war with his body unscathed, but his life was forever altered. Like many soldiers who served in Iraq, he carried invisible wounds. He struggled with the relentless grip of PTSD. The challenges didn’t end there. Financial instability loomed large, adding to the weight on his shoulders and ultimately contributing to the painful separation from his family.

Ryan’s journey is filled with both triumphs and setbacks. From a young age, his mother was his closest confidante and pillar of support. While his father was absent, Ryan was fortunate to have other men step in and fill that void, offering guidance and mentorship. Together, he and his mother weathered life’s storms. They embraced new beginnings, endured the heartbreak of divorce, faced the devastating loss of their home, and went through his mother’s mental health battles.

Despite these obstacles, Ryan’s resilience shone through. He refused to be defined by hardship, constantly seeking ways to improve his circumstances and build a better future. Enlisting in the military was a long-held aspiration for Ryan—a decision fueled by a sense of purpose and a desire to serve. Yet, nothing could have prepared him for the realities that awaited him on the battlefield. The story unfolds with vivid detail, chronicling Ryan’s experiences in the military, the camaraderie forged with fellow soldiers, the intensity of combat, and the bonds of friendship and romance that provided solace amidst chaos. His ambitions stretched beyond the uniform, as he dreamed of a fulfilling career and a stable life for his loved ones.

Readers will find themselves deeply connected to Ryan’s story. His search for his biological father, his longing for love, and his unwavering commitment to provide for his family are themes that resonate on a universal level. Ryan is the kind of person who would willingly make sacrifices to ensure the happiness and comfort of those he cares about. This story also shines a light on the profound impact that fractured relationships and broken homes can have on children. It also explores the lasting scars left by war, not just on those who fight but on their families and communities as well.

The aftermath of conflict is a powerful reminder of the importance of choosing peace, as the consequences of war ripple far beyond the battlefield, leaving emotional and psychological damage in their wake. Ryan’s story is inspiring, and I’m proud of the man he is now. Downriver: Memoir of a Warrior Poet by Ryan McDermott is one book you don’t want to miss; it will fill your heart with compassion and understanding of an average war veteran’s struggles.