Gerard Tod

Gerard Tod is a 26-year retired Navy veteran whose extensive military career spanned roles as a Naval Flight Officer (NFO) flying in the EP-3 aircraft and later as an Aeronautical Engineering Duty Officer (AEDO). His career ended when a service-connected disability led to his retirement. Having navigated his own journey with Major Depressive Disorder, Tod brings personal insight to characters facing similar challenges. His combination of operational flying experience and systems engineering expertise provides the authentic technical foundation evident throughout his works.

As a father of five, Tod understands the importance of stories that inspire young readers while respecting their intelligence. His middle-grade adventure series reflects his belief that children deserve literature that entertains while introducing them to complex topics like technology, ethics, and personal courage.

Tod's experiences in naval aviation inform the technical details in the Adventure of the Sandeman series, while his understanding of military service and its effects on families adds depth to characters like Captain Michael Sullivan in The Sigmund Sessions trilogy. The beloved service dog Maumee (nicknamed "Mau") in The Many Adventures of Mau and Me series was inspired by Tod's own service dog, who has been an essential companion in his mental health journey.

When not writing, Tod applies his extensive systems engineering background to new creative projects, spends time with his family and service dog, and supports veteran mental health initiatives. His books seamlessly blend his aeronautical systems knowledge with his personal mental health journey, creating stories that are both technically accurate and emotionally authentic.

Gerard Tod is a pen name adopted to keep the author's creative works separate from his military service record.