From the black sands of Iwo Jima to the sweltering jungles of Vietnam, and finally to the deserts of Iraq and Afghanistan, Service & Sacrifice follows the powerful true stories of a family shaped by the battlefield—and the battles that follow long after the shooting stops.
Told through the eyes of John, his father Michael, and his grandfather William, this emotionally gripping narrative sheds light on the physical, emotional, and spiritual scars of service. It dives deep into the hidden war—PTSD, homelessness, addiction, and the struggle to reintegrate into civilian life—and the glimmers of hope found in healing, faith, family, and fellowship.
This book is both a tribute and a call to action, honoring the courage of veterans while demanding a better world for those who served.
Whether you’ve worn the uniform, love someone who has, or simply want to understand the real cost of war—this book is for you.
Allen DeKeyser is a survivor, storyteller, and advocate whose life has been shaped by pain, perseverance, and purpose. Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Allen has lived through some of the darkest moments one can endure—including surviving a police shooting, multiple violent encounters, and the heavy burden of trauma. Through it all, he found strength not just in his own spirit, but in the unconditional love of his wife Marqueta, and the loyalty of his service dog, Harley.
A passionate voice for veterans, mental health, and healing, Allen writes books that honor those who have endured the unimaginable and still rise. His storytelling blends real-life truth with heartfelt compassion, highlighting the invisible wounds many carry—and the hope that healing is always possible.
Allen is the founder of DeKeyser Publishing, where he continues to create inspiring, honest, and deeply human works. He lives by the belief that no one’s story is too broken to be told, and that speaking truth is the first step toward healing.
You can follow his work, support his mission, or reach out at:
🌐 www.dekeyser-publishing.com
📺 YouTube: @DE_KEYSER
🐾 Accompanied by: Harley, Pebbles, and Fendi