JW Jones

Born in the heart of the prairie in Dodge City, Kansas, in 1948, JW Jones grew up steeped in the rich history of the plains, thanks to the captivating tales his grandmother spun, who was herself a child of the Dakota Territory.

Life took him to Texas in 1960, and at the youthful age of 17, he answered the call to serve, enlisting in the US Navy in 1965. His dedication led him through four tours in Vietnam, three as a helicopter gunner and one as an ECM operator, experiences that profoundly shaped his perspective.

Upon returning to civilian life, Jones spent a decade exploring various paths before his adventurous spirit called him across the Atlantic to Europe for three years, followed by a move to the Philippines. Returning home, he pursued his passion for history, earning a degree and going on to teach the subject while also coaching fast-pitch softball at several Texas schools, including Italy, Red Oak, and Abbott.

At 74, he decided it was time for a new chapter: writing. His debut, Mayday, A Saga of the Big Mothers, marked the beginning of a prolific period. Beyond his current work, Tales of Old Texas, he is also crafting Above and Beyond, When I Have Your Wounded, a poignant story of the Dustoff and Extraction pilots in Vietnam, and The Wings of Valor, The Sea Devils in Vietnam, which illuminates the legendary USN squadron Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 7.

JW is a proud father to his daughter, JoAnn Miller, who is a vital support in his writing journey, and a loving grandfather to James and Charlese..