LACIE SILVA
Editor
On October 4, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., local author James “Jim” Dewitt Bowen will be holding a book signing for his autobiography, 100 Hurricanes – Vietnam War Games, at the Carolyn Stewart Library in Jasper.
The book is currently available for purchase on Amazon, both in paperback and as an ebook for Kindle. At the signing event, attendees will have the opportunity to buy the paperback for $15 or the hardcover for $40, with payments accepted by cash or check. Bowen will be available to sign newly purchased copies, and he is also willing to sign any previously purchased copies brought to the event.
Bowen’s autobiography tells the story of his first 25 years, with a focus on his time in the Marine Corps and service during the Vietnam War. The book begins with his childhood in Jasper and Marion County, detailing his journey through high school, college, and law school. The narrative then shifts to his military training, deployment to Vietnam, and his eventual return home, where he faced a pivotal decision about whether to remain in the Marine Corps. Bowen reflects on his combat experiences, the battles he fought, and the lingering effects of war, which, in his words, “stay with a person forever.”
Writing has been a therapeutic outlet for Bowen since his service. While recovering from an injury in Guam, doctors encouraged him to write as a way of coping, and he has continued to write poems, short stories, and songs throughout his life, many of which are inspired by the war. His writings are interspersed throughout the book, with a dedicated chapter for his songs and poetry.
For 50 years, Bowen remained silent about his experiences, even with his family, until three significant events prompted him to open up. In 2000, his son interviewed him about Vietnam for a history class, marking the first time Bowen had shared his story. In 2011, after the death of his father, Bowen discovered a box containing letters he had sent home from Vietnam, as well as letters from his men, which his father had kept hidden. These letters are included in the book. Finally, after reconnecting with a fellow officer and organizing a 50-year reunion for his Marine Corps class, Bowen found relief in sharing memories and experiences with his comrades.
Bowen explains the title “100 Hurricanes,” refers to a powerful memory of witnessing a B-52 bombing run in Vietnam. The force of the explosion, which he describes as shaking the earth with the intensity of 100 hurricanes, left a lasting impact on him. The secondary title, “Vietnam War Games,” reflects Bowen’s childhood games with his brother, their fascination with the Marine Corps, and the “games” he later played during military training exercises and his real-life experiences in Vietnam.
After decades of keeping his story private, Bowen decided to publish the book, in which the process of writing has been both challenging and healing for him. Bowen also expressed he looks forward to reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones through this journey.
The Carolyn Stewart Library is located at 14 W 2nd St in Jasper. For more information contact Ann Gray at (423) 942-3369.
