Author Description

In the summer of 1862, the United States is torn by Civil War, and what was supposed to be a short conflict has turned into a bloody campaign on both sides. Teenage farm boy Michael Drieborg lives with his family in Michigan and longs to join the cause, but he can't justify abandoning his parents or the farm. But fate intercedes one Saturday morning on the family's weekly visit to town. Michael saves a young boy from being bullied. Unfortunately, he strikes the bully-the son of the town's banker-and is arrested and charged with assault. He was given two choices: go to jail or join a Union cavalry unit being formed in Grand Rapids. Against the wishes of his parents, Michael leaves home and marches to war. Thus begins the story of a nave farm boy's journey to becoming a seasoned Union cavalryman. From the harshness of training camp and the intrigues of Washington DC to falling in love with a congressman's daughter and the horrific reality of leading troops into battle, "Duty and Honor" reveals one man's dignity and sacrifice in the midst of tragic upheaval.