Imagine keeping a secret for decades.

People have always known Ashley Bryan as a celebrated artist, storyteller, writer—a legend. But there was a role Ashley had that almost no one knew: soldier.

In 1943, at nineteen years old, Ashley was drafted out of art school and into World War II. During his service he was the technical sergeant with charcoal pencils and paper stuffed into his gas mask; a friend and art teacher to the children of Boston, where he was first stationed; an art student in Scotland; and the unofficial portrait painter of his fellow soldiers—the very same ones with whom he was a part of Operation Overlord at Omaha Beach on D-Day. But despite his many attributes, Ashley was still seen in one particular way: as being Black.

For years Ashley faced the injustices of war, and equally damaging, the injustices specific to Black soldiers in a segregated army. And for decades he told no one. Now he feels compelled to add to history, to tell his story, including not only the injustices, but also the kind people who supported him. The bright moments that guided him through the dark. And, most of all, how his passion for art sustained him time and time again.

Filled with never-before-seen artwork, handwritten letters to his dear Cooper Union classmate Eva, and sketchbook-journal entries, this heartrending, soaring memoir is both an extraordinary piece of history—and a lesson in hope.

From the dust jacket