ARLINGTON, Va. -- The author of a children’s book about Marines is competing for funding to send his book to thousands of children who have deployed parents.
Capt. Brandon W. Barnett, author of “A Salute to Our Heroes: The U.S. Marines,” submitted his idea to the Pepsi Refresh Project to help pay for 5,000 copies, which will be sent to installations across the Corps.
“While nothing can completely heal the pain that separation brings, it is my sincere hope that this book will bring a sense of comfort to the children who read it,” said Barnett, who works as a judge advocate for the commandant of the Marine Corps.
Barnett added he hopes people will vote for his idea once a day until the competition ends on July 31.
Capt. Jahn Olson, an Officer Candidate School academics instructor at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., said this book helped him explain what he does on a daily basis to his son.
“My 4-year-old often has questions about what I do as a Marine,” Olson said. “This book tied it all together in a fun way that he understands.”
Throughout the book readers receive a glimpse of Marine life, starting with boot camp, courtesy of the main character Chesty the bulldog
“My daughter Jillian loves the book,” said Retired Maj. Jason Pelt of Stafford, Va. “Her favorite part is finding Chesty on all the pages.”
Barnett wrote the children’s book to provide families with an entertaining story that explains several aspects of the military.
“The rhyming language makes it a fun read, like a Marine Corps Dr. Seuss book,” Olson said. “The artwork is excellent, and is much cooler than Dr. Seuss books in my opinion.”
Pelt said he reads it to his daughter at least once a day.
“The book is a wonderful introduction and overview of our Corps, especially for young children of Marines,” he said.
To vote for this Pepsi Refresh Project idea, visit www.refresheverything.com/marinekidsbook.