A moving account of one family’s journey through grief and healing following the death of their son in Iraq. David and Deborah Tainsh were living the happiest years of their lives until the dark morning of February 12, 2004, when a six a.m. knock at the door brought the news that their son, Sergeant Patrick Tainsh, had been killed in Iraq. David’s only child, Patrick was the son who overcame a rebellious, drug-addicted youth to become an outstanding U.S. Army Cavalry Scout, posthumously awarded the Bronze and Silver Stars for saving the lives of his commanding officer and other soldiers before succumbing to his own wounds. 
In the wake of their loss, David and Deborah battle horrific grief and anger while trying to hold their marriage—and one another—together in an unforgettable journey toward healing. 
"Be prepared to cry. Be prepared to learn. Be prepared to change. ..." —Maria Edwards, Military Writers Society of America
Military Writers Society of America Spirit of Freedom Award
Branson Stars &amp; Flags Book Award – Silver

Heart of a Hawk: One Family's Sacrifice & Journey Toward Healing

Tainsh, Deborah

Parenting & Relationships

Elva Resa

Patrick Tainsh lived by his own set of rules defying any discipline or direction from his father, a United States Marine. He survived as a busboy and cook to support his drug habit and lifestyle of surfing and snowboarding up and down the California coast. Then the day came when he found himself homeless, living out of a broken down car. His only hope was to reach out to his dad once more. Given one more chance, Patrick returned home. Within months he signed with the U. S. Army. Many doubted that he would remain committed to the oath. But his commitment through boot camp at the 5/15th Cavalry regiment at Fort Knox, followed by training to become a 19 Delta Cavalry Scout, and his deployment to Iraq in 2003 from Fort Polk, Louisiana, with the 2D Armored Cavalry Regiment/2nd Squadron/Eagle Troop and his subsequent heroism left everyone astounded. The story of Sgt Patrick Tainsh is one of redemption that will inspire and touch hearts of all ages and walks of life.

SGT Patrick Tainsh 19 Delta: Surfer, Soldier, Silver Star

Biographies & Memoirs

Leaders & Notable People

Independently published

Author and Gold Star mom Deborah Tainsh gathered essays from more than twenty-five parents who received the dreaded news that their child had died in military service. 
These invaluable stories show how today's military families survive the folded flag and give a glimpse into the lives of fallen service members and their families. 
Includes advice for other Gold Star parents and their friends and families. Bonus essays from a casualty assistance officer and a former soldier give deeper insight into how wartime death affects comrades left behind.
 "This book is an invaluable asset for understanding what really happens in families who suffer the greatest of losses." —John C. Powledge, command chaplain, 335th Signal Command
 "Deborah Tainsh has given these Gold Star parents a place to voice their grief and their gratitude for their precious children. Don't miss the chance to get to know their fallen heroes." —Carla Blowey, former editor of Living With Loss Magazine

Surviving the Folded Flag: Parents of War Share Stories of Coping, Courage, and Faith

Elva Resa Publishing

See the best price to sell, buy, or rent books by Tainsh, Deborah. BookScouter helps to compare book prices from 25+ online bookstores and 30+ buyback vendors with a single search.

Books by Tainsh, Deborah