MEMOIRS
Appalachian Free Spirit: A Recovery Journey
This compelling memoir traces a lifelong journey shaped by war, trauma, addiction, and ultimately profound spiritual transformation. Through a powerful blend of personal reflection, historical insight, and deeply emotional storytelling, the author opens a window into the hidden battles that followed his service in Somalia and Vietnam, conflicts that left invisible scars long after the smoke cleared. Anchored by letters he wrote from the front lines more than fifty years ago, the book unveils the origins of his struggle with PTSD, showing how the emotional wounds of combat quietly evolved into years of addiction, inner turmoil, and a desperate search for escape. These firsthand accounts allow readers to witness not only the external realities of war but also the internal unraveling that haunted him long after returning home. Yet this is not just a story of suffering. It is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of spiritual rebirth. Guided by the Twelve Steps and deeply influenced by a range of spiritual traditions, the author gradually discovers a path toward healing that is neither quick nor easy but ultimately transformative. Through perseverance, fellowship, and a renewed connection to a Higher Power, he rebuilds a life once shattered by trauma and addiction. The result is an inspiring and intimate narrative of redemption. It shows that even in the darkest moments, hope can survive and that recovery is not merely possible but life-changing for those who dare to seek it. Part war memoir, part addiction recovery story, and part spiritual journey, this book offers readers a profound reminder that he
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Duke Talbott
Duke Talbott, Ph.D., is Professor Emeritus of History at Glenville State University. Born and raised in Appalachia, he began his academic journey at West Virginia University before serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Somalia. Upon returning home, like many young men of his generation, he faced intense pressure to join the military. Although promised options for service, those promises were never honored, and he was ultimately sent to Vietnam—where he earned both the Army Commendation Medal and the Bronze Star. The scars of combat left him with unaddressed PTSD, leading to years of struggle with alcohol and drug 1 addiction. Through perseverance, the support of Twelve Step recovery programs, and spiritual growth, he rebuilt his life and found lasting peace and fulfillment. Through the GI Bill, he went on to earn an M.S. in Agricultural Economics and a Ph.D. in History, with a focus on Africa, from West Virginia University. His professional career in higher education was marked by both significant achievement and the ongoing challenges of addiction, yet in recovery he discovered renewed purpose and a new way of living. Following retirement, he returned to his Appalachian roots, where he continued to serve his community— eventually being elected to city council and later as mayor. He is also the author of Agricultural Innovation in Colonial Africa: Kenya and the Great Depression.
