About Me

I am a proud native of New Orleans, Louisiana, though I left there at the age of 20 to join the Army. Since then, I've traveled extensively and have been writing for as long as I can remember.

I spent 15 years in the Army, working my way from Private up to Captain and Company Commander. I am an Iraq war vet and spent 2005-2006 in the Al Anbar Province.

I maintained a popular military blog during my 18 month deployment (www.wordsmithatwar.blog-city.com). I have also written for Doonesbury.com, the New York Times, read my work on National Public Radio, and even been featured in TIME magazine.

I studied creative writing at the University of Montana, and then received my BA in English from the University of New Orleans in 2002. I have been freelancing part-time since college, but in 2007 I left the Army and created Desert Sun Writing in order to write full-time.

The reason I share all of this is to assure you that in my 38 years I have seen many places, known many faces, and had countless adventures. As a restaurant manager, I mastered the art of customer service. As a young soldier and paratrooper, I learned the power of self-discipline. As an Army communications officer and company commander, I learned the vital importance of effective communication and time management.

As someone with an English degree, I have a comprehensive command of grammar and language. As a combat veteran of the war in Iraq, I handle stress, deadlines, and almost any "adversity" with a cool demeanor. Finally, as a lover of words, all of my knowledge, experience and passion come to bear in every project I undertake.

I am currently based in St. George, Utah, which is a wonderful city and gateway to the most powerful and inspiring geography I've ever seen. I live here with two my incredible children, who inspire me, keep me very busy, and help me to appreciate life more every single day.

Phone: (435) 272 4618. Email: lee@desertsunwriting.com