A dream doesn't become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work. - Colin Powell. John dreamed of serving his country and he made it a reality with his strong determination and never give up attitude. After a magnificent twenty two year US Navy career he is inspiring everyone with his unique life experiences as a motivational speaker. He has penned his experience into a powerful memoir Someone Like Me. Throughout his military career, he has been decorated many times including four Navy Commendation Medals, Joint Service Achievement Medal, and four Navy Achievement Medals.

What was the most challenging assignment in the U.S. Navy?J: My most challenging assignment was my very first one - Navy Boot Camp. Through an unfortunate series of events that I describe in Someone Like Me, I I developed blood poisoning in my feet and broke my left ankle. I preserved through the coldest winter in Chicago history and was fortunate to graduate.

What is the inspiration behind your book, Someone Like Me? Who can benefit from this book?J: I met a young man named Trevor who has cerebral palsy. I told him, and his entire family my story and they were so moved that I decided right then to put my story down on paper. Anyone can benefit from reading Someone Like Me because everyone is going through some sort of struggle. My story is not a disability story - its a story of hard work, perseverance and inclusion.

What do you like about your role as an inspirational speaker? What kind of feedback are you getting?J: Whether its speaking in front of a Fortune 500 company or a classroom of middle schoolers, I love sharing the story of Someone Like Me. The feedback that I’ve gotten has been tremendous with positive comments from most everyone.

Can you tell us about a situation where you felt like quitting? What kept you going?J: When I went to take the physical to join the Navy in November of 1980 - I failed it because I couldn’t do an exercise called the duck walk. The military doctors said that they couldn’t use someone like me. Determined to prove them wrong, I practiced that duck walk exercise in my basement for a year. I then went back and retook the physical - and was the best duck walker in the building!

What challenges did you face during your growing years?J:  I’ve dealt with most everything including being teased, picked on laughed at and bullied. I was very skinny, wore thick glasses and long pants all summer long to hide my pipe cleaner legs.

Who is your inspiration?J: My best friend since the 7th grade, Mr. Phil Freeman is my inspiration. We still talk on the phone most everyday.

What do you like to do when you are with your family/friends?J: I like to eat, so having a nice meal with my friends is a real treat.

What are your other hobbies? J: I love to exercise, read and watch movies.

What tips/advice do you have for those in our community who want to follow their dreams?J: Realize that normal is just a setting on the dryer. Just because you do something different doesn’t make it “wrong” - its just you being you.

Any special message for our community?J:  Work hard, never give up and dream big!