Portraits of Courage

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A vibrant collection of oil paintings and stories by President George W. Bush honors the sacrifice and courage of America's military veterans. With forewords by Laura Bush and General Peter Pace, this work features sixty-six full-color portraits and a four-panel mural of service members who have served honorably since 9/11. These individuals have faced formidable challenges, often returning home with visible and invisible injuries that complicate their transition to civilian life. Research indicates a significant civilian-military divide, with many Americans lacking understanding of veterans' issues. Each painting is paired with an inspiring story written by President Bush, showcasing the bravery of those who answered the nation's call and their journeys to recovery. This collection aims to honor veterans and highlight the contributions of their families and caregivers, fostering greater public awareness and support for their needs. Proceeds from the book will benefit the George W. Bush Presidential Center's Military Service Initiative, which focuses on helping post-9/11 veterans and their families transition successfully to civilian life, emphasizing meaningful employment and addressing the invisible wounds of war.