Quiet Strong: First African American Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician (Quiet Strong Part One of a Trilogy)

We make choices, we cannot choose consequences. Richard Preston was born in Jacksonville, Florida. He introduced himself to alcohol at the tender age of 6. The progressive disease of alcoholism and drug addiction soon crippled his dreams and aspirations. The party would continue for over three decades. Richard captivates as he tells of his darkest moments and how he broke free from the chains of dependency.

Cynthia Byrd Conner is the daughter of Sherman and Louise Byrd. Recently retired, she was employed by the Department of the Navy, Naval Sea Systems Command, Southeast Regional Maintenance Center. A Management and Program Analyst, she has over 25 years of experience in ship maintenance and repair. A graduate of Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ), Cindy completed the Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Supervision and Management.Cindy is a member of the Organization of Black Maritime Graduates, a 501(c)3 organization that, educates, mentors, and provides scholarships for minorities from all over the world, to attend the State University of New York Maritime College. She is also a member of the Florida Writers Association and the Military Writers Society of America.Married to Alton M. Conner for over thirty years, they continue to joyfully strive to fulfill God’s will for their lives. God has blessed them with a daughter, son, son-in-law, and granddaughter. They all reside in the beautiful city of Jacksonville, Florida. You may contact Cindy at Cynthia Byrd Conner, 731 Duval Station Road, Suite 107-155, Jacksonville, FL 32218, or email her at cynthiaconner1957@gmail.com