Lewis B. Puller Jr.

About the Author

Lewis B. Puller Jr. was an American author and Vietnam War veteran whose poignant memoir Fortunate Son: The Healing of a Vietnam Vet chronicles his harrowing experiences as a Marine lieutenant who lost both legs and parts of his hands to a landmine in 1968, followed by a profound journey of physical and emotional recovery amid the shadows of post-traumatic stress and addiction. Born into a distinguished military family—his grandfather was a renowned general—Puller grappled with the weight of legacy while forging his own path toward resilience and redemption. A graduate of the College of William & Mary and Harvard Law School, he channeled his trials into advocacy for veterans' rights, leaving an indelible mark on literature that illuminates the human cost of war and the enduring power of hope. Tragically, Puller passed away in 1994, but his words continue to inspire and heal.