I grew up in Kansas and taught music in the public schools and college before entering the Navy.
I retired from the Navy as a Captain, having commanded USS Duluth, directed a Pentagon think
tank, and was the Professor of Naval Science at the University of Texas. Following that, I earned
a Ph.D. in Government and taught international relations at Texas State University for eleven
years. My book, The Soldier Vote: War, Politics, and the Ballot in America (Palgrave, 2016) was
cited by the Supreme Court in June 2026 (Watson). I am also a practicing musician and have a
traditional band. I sing and play guitar in the Austin area. I write regularly for the Overseas Vote
and U.S. Vote Foundations as well as posting on my own website (https://inbody.net). Along with
all that, I am an active amateur radio operator. My writing has been inspired by my naval
experience, my love and training in history, my fascination with radios, and my ability to tell a
story. I live in Buda, Texas (near Austin) with my wife