Stories and Articles

Soldiers in World War II uniforms gather near a military aircraft, preparing for a mission. The backdrop includes a second plane with distinctive markings.

Stained Pews, Stained Glass: My Most Profound D-Day Discovery

By David A. Freel, © David A. Freel, Ashley Creek Publishing, LLC – October 20, 2025 (updated January 2026)  In 2019, my father—born in 1935…
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A person and a child walk toward a dock by a tranquil lake at sunset, surrounded by a natural landscape. The vibrant sky reflects serene outdoor leisure.
Above: Rural life in Texas is a great place to raise a family. Photo © L. Katherine Freel November 26, 2025

Blood on Board – How Prehospital Whole Blood Can Save Lives in Rural Texas

By David A. Freel © David A. Freel, Ashley Creek Publishing, LLC – November 30, 2025 (updated March 2026)  Note: The characters Annabelle and Pete…
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A young man in a suit sits at a desk, writing notes. Bookshelves filled with legal texts fill the background, suggesting a scholarly or professional setting.

How the People of Framingham, Massachusetts Saved My Dad’s Life 

The First Time We Almost Lost Him If not for the dedicated participants of the Framingham Heart Study—and the medical advances their commitment inspired—I wouldn’t have my dad…
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Military transport aircraft flying over a body of water, showcasing its wide wingspan and four engines against a dark sky backdrop.

Traveling Soldier

By David A. Freel © David A. Freel, Ashley Creek Publishing, LLC — January 19, 2026  The Long Road Home Sergeant Timothy Jones completed his…
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The Lost Art of Reading: My Review of Three of the Most Consequential Books for Young People

By David A. Freel © David A. Freel, Ashley Creek Publishing, LLC – March 14, 2026  I will date myself: shortcuts to reading actual books…
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Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover

By Rhonda M. Freel © Rhonda M. Freel, Ashley Creek Publishing, LLC — March 24, 2026 As a military spouse, one of the most enriching…
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Wanderlust: Becoming a Commercial Airline Pilot

By David A. Freel © David A. Freel, Ashley Creek Publishing, LLC — March 13, 2026 A Career That Blends Security and AdventureIn today’s world,…
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Angels of the Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria

By David A. Freel © David A. Freel, Ashley Creek Publishing, LLC — April 10, 2026 For our 30th anniversary in March 2018, Rhonda and…
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