“From the Past to the Present” by William J. Hodge is now available for purchase

“From the Past to the Present” by William J. Hodge covers his life from childhood to adulthood. William realized that his life has been interesting and wants people to read and be inspired by his story. Proudly published by Citi of Books, this book is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retail platforms.

William J. Hodge was born on October 4, 1948, in Axton, Virginia, where he grew up with eight brothers and two sisters. After attending several schools, he graduated from Albert Harris High School and spent a year and a half at Kittrell College before joining the United States Air Force on May 29, 1969. He met his wife Beulah in California, and they married on October 17, 1973, raising five children and enjoying a large family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. William earned degrees from Thomas Edison College, Troy State University, and the University of Phoenix before retiring from the Air Force in 1993 after twenty-four years of service. He enjoys spending time with Beulah, fishing, dining out, and working on personal projects, all while celebrating their journey together, including their recent 50th wedding anniversary.

In his compelling autobiography, “From the Past to the Present,” William J. Hodge takes readers on a journey through his life, beginning in the small town of Axton, Virginia, where he spent his formative years on his grandfather’s farm. His early experiences laid the foundation for a life marked by resilience and determination, setting the stage for the remarkable journey that would follow.

William’s educational path took him through several elementary schools before he graduated from high school, but it was his military career that would define much of his adult life. Serving for twenty-four years, William dedicated himself to his country, experiencing the challenges and triumphs that come with a uniform life. During this time that he met his wife, Beulah, in 1970. Their love blossomed amidst the backdrop of military life, culminating in their marriage in October 1973. Together, they navigated the complexities of frequent relocations, adapting to new environments and building a life filled with shared experiences.

The title of William’s book aptly reflects the essence of his narrative, as it chronicles his transition from a small-town boy to a seasoned military veteran. Throughout his career, he faced the unique challenges of serving in foreign countries, often separated from his family. These experiences not only tested his resolve but also deepened his appreciation for the moments spent with Beulah and their family. As he recounts his journey, readers gain insight into the sacrifices made by military families and the strength required to maintain relationships amidst the uncertainties of military life.

The inspiration to write “From the Past to the Present” struck William while he was working as a loss prevention officer in a department store in Covington, Georgia. Despite having the desire and skill to write, he initially struggled to find the right direction for his book. However, as memories and events from his life began to surface, he found himself jotting them down on napkins and scratch paper during quiet moments at work. This spontaneous writing process allowed him to capture the essence of his experiences, and over the years, he meticulously organized these reflections into a cohesive narrative.

Ultimately, William’s story is not just a recounting of events; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. As he reflects on his life, he recognizes the richness of his experiences, and the lessons learned along the way. Today, William and Beulah continue to embrace life with enthusiasm, remaining active and engaged in their community. “From the Past to the Present” serves as an inspiring reminder that our past shapes us, but it is our present choices that define our future. Through his autobiography, William invites readers to reflect on their own journeys, encouraging them to find meaning and purpose in their stories.