Steel Will

August 11, 2014
Harris, a retired staff sergeant who was severely burned while serving during the Iraq War, takes the reader through the world of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While this is one man’s memoir, Harris also relates the stories of others who have come from the battlefield with physical and mental scars. The author writes, “If you only get one thing from my story, may it be that you take the reality of PTSD seriously, standing in the gap for those who need help.” The wounds that Harris suffered required multiple skin graft surgeries. His hands were so badly burned that they are now difficult to use. But through all his pain and suffering, he found public and private organizations that help wounded soldiers and bring them healing. The book is about his use of these different programs and how they helped him. His story includes references to his faith, but, for the most part, it should appeal to a secular audience as well. Americans live in a world of PTSD veterans, and Harris has told an important story.