“Zelinski does a masterful job weaving his photos and stories into something extraordinary. Reading about the two officers who lost their lives while serving at the NRO and Gary’s way of honoring their spouses’ service tells of the toll they also paid for our freedom. As a former Deputy Director of the National Reconnaissance Office, I know that these officers and many others resting at Arlington are our Nation’s unsung heroes who served while guarding our Nation’s secrets.”

“As an Army private stationed at Fort McNair in Washington D.C., I often visited Arlington National Cemetery. I’d go whenever I had out-of-town guests, or one of the Old Guard from Fort McNair had a special assignment, or I was sent there to be part of a ceremony’s audience. Appreciation wanes with familiarity, but standing on the ground of an American treasure, in my uniform, was not lost on me. I did, however, only see the forest—never seeing the trees. A Walk Among Heroes has changed that. Zelinski opened my eyes to the wonder that each grave in our nation’s cherished cemetery has a story of the life and death of that hero and that family’s sacrifices. He transforms the ordered coldness of a cemetery into meticulously researched, patriotic, yet warm, thoughtful, and sentimental accounts of American heroes.”

“A Walk Among Heroes is definitely a must-read for all people living in America. Although I have visited Arlington National Cemetery, and been greatly moved by all that I saw, Arlington National Cemetery now holds a special place in my heart after reading this heartfelt, and thoughtfully written book. The author’s words touched my soul by not only stating factual information, but also through personal stories, which had a profound effect on me. The black and white pictures show how Zelinski ‘learned to create photographs, not just take pictures.’ Some stories made me cry, but also made me proud to be an American. As a former teacher and administrator for Los Angeles Unified School District, I resolutely advocate for this book to be used in middle and high school. Students need to feel a personal connection to what they are learning. I know students would greatly benefit from the history and personal stories in this book!”

“Thank you for including the story about Micheal Spann and General Donovan. You honored their memory and gave life to the service I dedicated my life to. As A history buff, some of the people you mentioned are well known to me, but you found a way to shine new light on many familiar heroes.”

“A moving acknowledgment to the men and women who sacrificed everything for our great country. My wife and I visited Arlington for the first time a few months ago. I wish we’d read your book before we went. What heartfelt tribute.”

“The book is sure to trigger some nostalgia for readers, depending on their experiences. I was particularly drawn to the Tomb of the Unknowns. In my earlier years, my social circle included the men of the Old Guard. I always got a kick out of watching them transition seamlessly from a typical twenty-year-old guy to the dignified soldier guarding the tomb or carrying the colors behind the president. Also, the Attack on the Pentagon memorial hit me harder than I would have expected.”

“Gary Zelinski has crafted a thoughtful, well-researched, loving look at a select few of the veterans buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Covering both those who are well known and a few you may never have heard of, A Walk Among Heroes serves as a testament to all of those buried in our national cemeteries. An inspiring read on Memorial Day or any day.”

“A Walk Among Heroes offers a fitting tribute to the greatest boxer of all time, Joe Lewis. ‘The Sweet Science’ chapter also captures the history and beauty of a sport I’ve dedicated my life to helping others learn and become champions. The book is as inspiring as it is educational. Well done!”

“From the solemn walks I’ve taken through Arlington National Cemetery, where many of my comrades rest, comes an understanding that heroism is as much in the silent support as it is in the valor seen on battlefields. A Walk Among Heroes captures the essence of Arlington, not just as a resting place for warriors, but as a monument to the enduring spirit of those who stood behind them—the spouses. These unsung heroes, who bore the weight of absence and loss, who raised families and kept hope alive, are given their rightful place in this narrative. This book isn’t just a reflection on the fallen; it’s an homage to the resilience and quiet strength of the families who have been the backbone of our forces. As someone who has felt the heavy blend of love and grief that Arlington evokes, I see in these pages a tribute to the full spectrum of sacrifice and loyalty that defines the military family. A Walk Among Heroes is a powerful reminder that heroism comes in many forms, often unseen, but always felt.”

“Zelinski has an eloquent style that gives the reader a deeper and more meaningful understanding of the some of the heroes buried at Arlington National Cemetery. As you read these pages you feel like you are walking the lanes of Arlington yourself. With this book you learn, laugh, and cry.”

“This book resonated with me profoundly because I worked at the cemetery as an architect for the National Park Service during the restoration of the north wing of Arlington House. It was impossible to be there without a sense of reverence for that hallowed ground and those honored there. A Walk Among Heroes beautifully expresses that reverence and offers a deeper understanding of why Arlington National Cemetery is a timeless expression of America’s search for our ‘better angels.’”

“I was so absorbed in the writings I could not put the book down until reaching the end. I was fascinated, I was angry, I was excited, I was spellbound! Gary has the knack—his enviable skills in humanizing those stone monuments in Section 60 and Arlington as a whole were magical! He put forth short, fierce human tributes in a manner that makes the reader want the stories on everyone at Arlington. I strongly recommend this book be read by all Americans!”

“Zelinski’s captivating photos and words transport the reader from battlefield to graveside to family picnics to unforgettably traumatic yet fiercely proud moments of our country’s history. Traveling through time and Arlington Cemetery is an experience that will stay with you long after reading this unforgettable book. Surely Zelinski’s thorough, eloquent, mesmerizing treatment of each hero/heroine’s story earns him the title of ‘better angel.’”

“A Walk Among Heroes is a thoroughly researched tribute to a few American veterans buried at Arlington Cemetery. Gary shines a light on some people and their families who would otherwise go unnoticed by the casual visitor to Arlington or any other national cemetery. This book sparks a curiosity to discover more about other people interred in Arlington and other National Cemeteries across the United States. It is a must-read for anyone who knows someone who has served their country with pride and honor.”

“Gary’s take on this hallowed ground is refreshingly different from any other book or article I have read on the subject. His decision to use black-and-white photos, which he took, adds a stark and almost haunting garnish to the fascinating story he weaves from beginning to end. No matter how much you’ve read on the subject or how many visits you have made, I urge you to read this book; you will see Arlington in a new and interesting light.”

“I’ve known about Arlington National Cemetery my entire adult life but never to the extent as told by Gary Zelinski in his wonderful book A Walk Among Heroes. I loved his stories of some of the notables laid to rest in this hallowed ground. I couldn’t put it down.”

“A Walk Among Heroes offers a poignant exploration of both renowned and overlooked figures buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Through meticulous research and heartfelt storytelling, Zelinski unveils the extraordinary lives of these heroes and their often-overlooked partners. The book sheds light on a few of the lesser-known women who stood beside these heroes, highlighting their resilience and contributions to history. Zelinski’s narrative seamlessly blends personal anecdotes, historical accounts, and reflective insights, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the lives of those who shaped our collective past. A Walk Among Heroes is a moving tribute to the enduring power of human connection and the profound impact of ordinary individuals on history. With its compelling storytelling and rich historical detail, Zelinski’s book honors the legacy of those who rest in Arlington’s sacred grounds, inviting readers on a transformative journey of remembrance and reverence.”