Fred Minnick is the author of Camera Boy: An Army Journalist's War in Iraq (Hellgate Press).

“Minnick’s gift of strong voice, authenticity and an innate sense of story makes this a compelling read—and fosters greater appreciation for those risking their lives for our country.” –Kentucky Monthly

“Minnick gives intimate and emotional descriptions of his first home raid, fire fight, mortar attacks, and his attempt to help make Iraq a thriving country again.” –Fort Lewis Turret

“In Camera Boy, the Oklahoma native recounts the good, the bad and the ugly of that year, the scars from which will never be far from his mind.” – The Daily Oklahoman

“On assignment to write about and photograph the aftermath of four car bombs, Minnick found himself in his own story — one he'd retell over and over in therapy for post-traumatic stress syndrome.” –Tulsa World

“In the midst of describing conflict and battle, among what can appear to be the mindless insanity of armed conflict — people literally blowing each other to pieces, or trying to — Minnick manages to capture something else. … Minnick describes the courage and character of fellow soldiers who would become his lifelong friends.” – The Record

“Minnick's tale is full of both humor and sadness.” – Louisville Mojo

“Minnick captures his emotions and experiences in “Camera Boy” without glorifying combat or painting himself as a hero.” – Northwest Guardian

“Camera Boy is more than a soldier's view of the Iraq War and a tribute to fallen heroes. It is a cornerstone of his recovery from PTSD.” – Stillwater News Press

“Camera Boy chronicles {Minnick’s} time serving in an Army public affairs unit — a time he spent with a Nikon camera slung over one arm, an M-16 over the other.” – Louisville Courier Journal

ABOUT Camera Boy

Fred Minnick spent more than a year in Iraq as a U.S. Army public affairs photojournalist. With a Nikon in one hand and an M-16 in the other, he accompanied combat troops on missions ranging from raids on suspected terrorist strongholds to public relations events including the opening of a school for girls. Some of the stories made it back home, most did not.

Camera Boy offers an eyewitness account of the Iraq War from a soldier with a different POV--from behind a camera and typewriter. Unfortunately, being assigned to public affairs did not shield Staff Sergeant Minnick from the horrors of war--including the deaths of two close friends--or from the devastating effects of PTSD upon his return home.

It is a story of courage, frustration (with both the military and the mainstream media), dedication and redemption. Includes 32 pages of photos taken by the author. Buy it on Amazon or wherever books are sold.

Other Books

He also wrote the Certified Angus Beef history book available in 2010 and is a contributor to The Blog of War (Simon & Schuster).

Minnick is available to consider writing and editing projects. Contact him at editor@fredwrite.com.