My name is Joshua and I'm honored to share my knowledge and experiences with you in "The American Family Prepper's Ultimate Survival Bible." Let me take a moment to introduce myself, share my journey, and explain why I’m passionate about helping you prepare for any challenges that may come your way.I grew up in a small rural town in the heart of America, where self-reliance and hard work were ingrained in me from a young age. My father was a carpenter, and my mother managed our household with the efficiency and skill of a seasoned prepper, though we didn’t call it that back then. I spent my childhood learning practical skills like hunting, fishing, gardening, and woodworking – skills that would later become the cornerstone of my survival knowledge.After high school, I joined the military, where I served for 15 years. My time in the service was transformative, providing me with rigorous training in survival techniques, emergency response, and tactical operations. I had the privilege of learning from some of the best survival experts in the world, and I honed my skills in various challenging environments, from deserts to jungles to arctic conditions.Upon retiring from the military, I transitioned into a career as an emergency services consultant. I worked closely with local governments and private organizations to develop emergency preparedness plans and conduct training sessions. This role allowed me to apply my military experience to civilian life, helping communities build resilience against natural disasters and other emergencies.During this time, I also started a family. My wife, Sarah, and I settled in a suburban area prone to economic fluctuations and occasional natural disasters. Our two children, Rachel and Amos, became my primary motivation to deepen my commitment to preparedness. I wanted to ensure that, no matter what happened, my family would always be safe, secure, and self-sufficient.As I delved deeper into the world of emergency preparedness, I discovered the prepper community. What started as a professional interest soon became a personal passion. I began attending prepper expos, survival training camps, and self-reliance workshops, eager to learn and share knowledge. I connected with like-minded individuals and admired figures like Bear Grylls and Dave Canterbury, whose expertise and dedication inspired me to elevate my own preparedness efforts.I started writing articles and sharing tips on survivalist forums, gradually building a reputation as a knowledgeable and reliable resource. I combined my military background, emergency services experience, and practical skills into a comprehensive approach to prepping that emphasizes both immediate survival and long-term sustainability.In addition to my professional work, I’ve always believed in the power of community and education. I’ve organized local prepper meet-ups, led workshops on topics ranging from basic survival skills to advanced food preservation techniques, and even started a community garden to teach sustainable living practices.My goal has always been to empower others to take control of their own safety and well-being. Whether it’s teaching children how to grow their own food, helping families develop emergency plans, or showing neighbors how to secure their homes, I strive to make preparedness accessible and practical for everyone.This book is the culmination of my life’s work and passion. It’s a comprehensive guide designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to protect your loved ones and thrive in any situation. From food storage and gardening to self-defense and off-grid living, each chapter draws on my personal experiences, professional expertise, and the wisdom of the prepper community.I’ve faced the same fears and uncertainties that many of you do. The fragility of our world can be daunting, but through preparedness, we can find strength and peace of mind. I’ve walked the path from uncertainty to confidence, and I’m here to guide you on your own journey to self-reliance.Thank you for joining me in this endeavor. Together, we can ensure that our families and communities are ready for whatever the future holds.Stay prepared, stay safe, and stay strong!Joshua W. RawlesRead more about this authorRead less about this author