Among The Dead: My Years in The Port Mortuary by John W. Harper

The author served twenty-one years in the United States Air Force and was Honorably Retired in 2006. His final assignment was at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware where he served with the Dental Evidence Response Team at the Dover Port Mortuary. This book details those years following September 11th which involved forensic dental identifications on those killed in the Pentagon Disaster, and then the thousands of fallen heroes returning from the battlefields of Iraq. The author provides an inside look at how exposure to human remains affected the team, and their individual battles with post-traumatic stress disorder. It is noteworthy that the teams' efforts were always directed by dignity, honor and respect for the fallen heroes. This work is meant as documentation, as well as some closure for those team members who continue to suffer the symptoms of PTSD. The author holds a Master's Degree from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. Today he lives with his wife and cat, just south of Orlando, Florida.

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What people are saying:

I knew John and his team had a terrible assignment after 9-11

By Amazon Customer on May 27, 2016

Format: Paperback Verified Purchase

What a thought provoking read! I knew John and his team had a terrible assignment after 9-11, but this makes us understand the extent of the lasting effect it has had on him and his team. I also never knew of the respect and care that was given to the soldiers before their return to their loved ones. I hope this book helps to ease the pain of others that are having the same struggles. I am proud to say that the author is a friend and a true hero to many.
Debbie Buterbaugh - PA 

The Author is a next door neighbor so reading the ...

By Mary Ellen on May 28, 2016

Format: Paperback Verified Purchase

The Author is a next door neighbor so reading the book was both necessary and a pleasure to understand this outstanding individual. I learned so much about the trauma's he and his team went through at Dover AFB. I admire his sharing his career in the Air Force and especially his tour of duty at the Port Mortuary. Please everybody read this book. 

Outstanding read! Really opened my eyes on how you ...

By Amazon Customer on May 16, 2016

Format: Paperback

Outstanding read! Really opened my eyes on how you should treat other people, because you never no what someone else is going through! Reminds us all to treat each other with dignity and respect.