New Hampshire Union Leader - Some worthy reading material by a retired Seabee with NH Connections. By Greg Andruskevich

Hi Stacey, Here's my column on the book, finally... Today's newspaper! Greg

New Hampshire Union Leader 10/06/2011, Page B08

Some worthy reading material by a retired Seabee with NH connections Veterans Greg Andruskevich “THROUGH THE Barracks Window, A Time of Waves,” by retired Navy Seabee Stacey L. Bolin, originally from Laconia, tells a story of fortitude and resourcefulness on the part of the author, and you have to admire her persistent courage in spite of all that was thrown at her, even before basic training started. Bolin’s sheer determination in the face of overwhelming odds does the Granite Stater proud; she faced what was, at the time, a chauvinistic Navy, including one particularly difficult medical officer. “Through the Barracks Window” is her 22-year labor of love. What happened to her in this story is all true; only the names have been changed to protect the innocent, and because the law says she has to protect the guilty, too. Her military saga began in Concord on Jan. 15, 1991, and it thrust her into a world completely different than the one she had expected, or anyone could have expected. In our correspondence, Bolin sent me the following: “I would be more than happy to send you a copy of my book, and it would be an honor to sign it for you. I have to say, even though I am Navy retired, I have a great fondness and appreciation for the Army. The Army saved my life twice — once that I speak about in my book, and the second was here recently. “I am a cancer survivor and the hardest part was going through treatments while I was in service trying to stay active duty. I do have a few secondary things that get the better of me now and then, but for the most part, I have my full Seabee ‘Can-Do’ spirit.” When she signed her note she wrote, “Greg and family, always believe in your dreams and follow the guidance of your heart.” And after you read her military story, you will see she stayed true to that course throughout her military career, even in Adak, Alaska, where a lot of “misfortune” took place. And yes, I did enjoy this book and am sure you will, too. Bolin now lives in Annapolis, Md., with her husband, Ron, and their boys, Ryan and Reese. She is a member of the Maryland Writers Association. Her book is available by emailing orders@trafford.com; first check out www.trafford.com. Most Trafford titles are available at major online book retailers. I salute Bolin for having the fortitude to write this book and the courage to battle through all the adversity thrown at her. I’ll never pass a rest area again or see a red van without thinking of her, and you’ll find out why when you read her book. In addition, friends and those interested in Bolin’s book can catch her being interviewed on the Annapolis TV station at http://www.youtube.com/user/CityofAnnapolis#p/search/0/RH6Rwes6aDU.

This article above appears on the eEdition http://www.unionleader.com/ in 10/6/11.