I recently had the opportunity to preview “RELENTLESS COURAGE: Winning the Battle Against Frontline Trauma” by Michael Sugrue and Dr. Shauna Springer.
The name of the book really sums up what’s inside. Perhaps not in the way that readers would initially think, though. The book is unique both for its raw authenticity and additional analysis by post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI) expert Shauna ‘Doc’ Springer, Ph.D.
The book follows the public service career of retired Sergeant Michael Sugrue. He started out in the US Air Force, serving as a Raven Security Forces officer. The Ravens are a small group of Airmen who receive specialized training to operate in remote and insecure locations around the world. They are tasked with safeguarding aircraft and aircrew in countries that do not have adequate security.
After separating from the Air Force, Michael was hired as a police officer in California. Early in Michael’s career, he was selected to be an undercover detective on a regional drug task force. Michael and his team managed to arrest drug dealers and seize large amounts of drugs, weapons and money. Michael was then promoted to the rank of sergeant. He was married and had a daughter.
Michael was living his dream, following in his father’s footsteps as a second-generation police officer. However, Michael’s humanity was about to collide with unthinkable loss and trauma.
Shortly after being promoted to sergeant, Michael’s squad was sent on a priority call. A man was armed with a knife and was trying to force his way into a bedroom. Inside, a man and a woman believed that he was going to kill them. Michael and his team bravely entered the house to stop the armed assailant. Unfortunately, the gunman did not follow orders, turned on the officers and lunged at them. To defend his own lives and the lives of innocents, Michael was forced to use deadly force.
“PRENTLESS COURAGE” Follows In The Aftermath Of The Shooting; criminal investigation, judicial depositions and internal investigation. The suspect’s twin brother was present during a series of court proceedings, causing Michael to relive one of the most difficult days of his life, repeatedly. To make matters worse, Michael experienced a significant loss in his personal life during this time.
In the midst of tragedy and loss, Michael contemplated ending his life. Then a close friend of Michael’s, a reserve police officer, attempted suicide. It was at this moment that Michael showed the highest degree of courage. He found trustworthy people and admitted that he needed help.
“RELENTLESS COURAGE” is a harrowing story that gives readers a sneak peek at the worst parts of law enforcement. It is also a story of redemption and restoration, as Michael relies on competent professionals and friends to walk him through the healing process.
Doc Springer helps the reader understand the psychology behind what was going on inside Michael’s mind. His expert perspectives, rooted in science and years of clinical experience, normalize the strong emotional and mental responses Michael endured and provide insight into ways we can all heal from trauma.
Order “RELENTLESS COURAGE” from Amazon and watch an interview with Michael Sugrue and Dr. Shauna Springer here: