About the Book
Two Good Men
by Bradley Mason Gates
In the wake of tragedy, two young boys are thrust into a bond that will shape their futures forever. After the untimely deaths of their fathers in 1952, their lives are forever intertwined under the guidance of retired Marine "Pappy" Smith—a steadfast grandfather to one boy and a compassionate neighbor to the other.
As they grow, their shared path leads to college, but a betrayal by a trusted coach reignites a burning desire to serve their country. Together, they enlist in the Marine Corps, embarking on a journey of duty, friendship, and sacrifice.
While stationed in California, fate introduces them to two extraordinary women—beautiful cousins who ignite a love as profound as the bond between the two men. As couples, their lives intertwine, weaving a story of love and resilience amidst the turbulence of Vietnam, the trials of injury and separation, and the joys and challenges of new beginnings.
But when one of the men goes missing in action during a dangerous mission, the others must navigate an unthinkable loss, testing the strength of their relationships and their resolve to honor their commitments to duty and love.
Will their bonds survive the ultimate test? Or will the weight of their choices threaten to tear everything apart?
Discover the unforgettable journey of Two Good Men, a story of courage, love, and the enduring strength of friendship.
What Readers Are Saying
Discover why Two Good Men is touching hearts and leaving a lasting impact.
"This story of two Marines and their families serves as a paradigm for countless American families. Not fanciful images of superheroes, but poignant episodes that delineate honest, down to earth portraits of the kinds of young Americans who gave and give so much. A warm tale of intense friendship, dedication, loyalty and love. Oorah!"
Prof. Edward Jaworowski
former Chair, Classical Studies, Villanova University (retired)
"A snapshot in time. An honest, heartfelt and sometimes humorous look into the realities of family, friendship and service to our great nation in times of peace and times of war. Written from the author's perspective (a life-long Marine) who clearly has a deep and lasting appreciation for those who answer their nation's call to serve"
Fr Michael Taylor, Pastor
Corpus Christi Catholic Church Aldie, VA
"The personal stories of four friends and their families are rendered epic by the skilled prose of Mr. Gates, who intertwines the families’ real-life events with scenes from Marine Corps’ recruits training, Vietnam battles, captivity and hospital stay, and finally, graduation. Love rules above all. A pleasure to read also for those who have no prior direct experience of the Marine Corps."
Maria Francesca Nespoli Carlberg
Congressional Liaison, Embassy of Italy in Washington, DC.
"Brad Gates belongs to that class of strictly upright, honest and true men, of whom Marines afford so many noble examples. A personal mentor and role-model since serving under him at The Basic School; I am a better man for my association with Brad Gates. Two Good Men captures the essence of what is truly great about our Nation - young men and their families honorably and quietly bearing the heavy burden of service in defense of our Nation’s values and democratic principles."
The Honorable James M. Byrne
8th Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs Veteran Marine
"At its heart, Two Good Men is a love story. Love of family, love of brotherhood, the love of good women, the love of best friends, and the love for the institution around which Brad Gates characters orbit, the United States Marine Corps. The story is compelling and the dialogue fast paced - for those who love the Corps or are those who revolve around its orbit, Two Good Men is a story you will embrace!"
Mark A. Brilakis, LtGen USMC (ret)
"This is a story to which all Marines can easily relate. The bonds of friendship and their shared loyalty to Corps and Country link the lives of Manny and Kenny in ways very familiar to Marines, and indeed, all members of the Armed Force."
Col Christopher J Gunther USMC (Ret)
Purchase Your Copy Today!
All Rights Reserved | Two Good Men
