Imagine diving into a story so gripping, it pulls at your heartstrings and leaves you breathless. That’s what author Craig T. Greenlee delivers in his latest soul-stirring memoirs, “November Ever After” and its powerful sequel “Marshall Ever After.” Greenlee takes you deep into the heart of one of America’s darkest sports tragedies—the 1970 Marshall University plane crash. Drawing from his own experiences as a former Marshall football player, he weaves a tale of loss, resilience, and unbreakable spirit that you simply can’t afford to miss.

Distinctive style

Greenlee’s professional journey is marked by his distinctive narrative style. He served as sports editor at UPSCALE Magazine and led the High School Sports Xtra supplement for the Winston-Salem Journal in North Carolina. His work has been featured in respected publications such as DIVERSE Issues in Higher Education and Convergence magazines. As a college sports writer, he has extensively covered North Carolina A&T and Winston-Salem State.

Greenlee’s narrative prowess extends beyond the world of sports. His personal history as a former Marshall University football player gives him a unique perspective on the tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of most of his former teammates and coaches. His books offer a deeply emotional and comprehensive account of the disaster and its aftermath, drawing readers into the human stories behind the headlines.

Highlighted stories and themes

Prophetic warning

One poignant narrative from “November Ever After” focuses on Ed Carter, a player whose life was spared due to a prophetic warning from his mother. Carter’s story highlights the emotional and spiritual journey that followed the tragedy, underscoring themes of survival and faith.

Racial tensions, community unity

The day before the disaster, racial tensions erupted on the Marshall campus. Fights broke out and three students were taken to the hospital. The subsequent crash, however, united the community in grief, temporarily dissolving racial divides. This aspect of the story offers a unique perspective on the tragedy’s profound social impact.

Students’ tearful trek

Another compelling storyline involves a group of Marshall students who embarked on a 1,500-mile chartered bus trip to attend services for seven players. Their journey, marked by intense emotional highs and lows, is a testament to the far-reaching effects of the tragedy on the Marshall community.

The Sequel: “Marshall Ever After”

“Marshall Ever After” takes an even deeper dive into the aftermath of the plane crash, revealing powerful stories hidden for decades. Here’s a sampling:

50th Anniversary ceremony

Despite the pandemic in 2020, the 50th-anniversary Fountain Ceremony proceeded with strict protocols: six-foot distancing, mandatory face masks, and a smaller, invitation-only crowd. This somber event highlighted the community’s unwavering commitment to honor their fallen heroes.

Following in Dad’s footsteps

One riveting story is that of Delongelo Brown, a Marshall football player whose father, Larry Brown, died in the crash. The author’s connection with Larry, having played alongside him, adds depth to Delongelo’s uplifting journey of legacy and strength.

Relentless cheerleader

Former Marshall  cheerleader Debbie (Bailey) Bowen’s relentless efforts led to a temporary exhibit honoring Marshall at the Chick-Fil-A College Football Hall of Fame during the 50th anniversary year. Her dedication ensured Marshall’s triumph over tragedy would be remembered and celebrated.

Impact and recognition

Greenlee’s works are not just about reliving the past; they are about understanding the ongoing impact of the crash on those who survived and the community as a whole. His detailed and empathetic storytelling brings to light many narratives that have been overlooked in other accounts of the tragedy.

A passion for storytelling has earned Greenlee recognition beyond the literary arena. He was the keynote speaker for the 2023 Memorial Fountain Ceremony at Marshall University, an annual event that honors the crash victims. His media appearances, including interviews on the Spotlight TV Network with Emmy Award-winning host Logan Crawford and the nationally syndicated radio show “This Week in America” hosted by Ric Bratton, have expanded his audience.

Greenlee holds a B.A. and an M.A. in Journalism from Marshall University. His educational and professional experiences have equipped him to craft heartfelt narratives that resonate deeply with readers, offering new perspectives on well-known historical events.

Explore untold stories

For those interested in exploring these untold stories, Greenlee’s memoirs provide a deeply human account of the Marshall plane crash and its aftermath. His works are available on platforms like Amazon, and more information can be found on his website, https://craigtbooks.com.

In a world where many stories remain untold, Craig T. Greenlee’s dedication to sharing these narratives ensures that the legacy of the Marshall plane crash continues to be honored and remembered by future generations. His insightful perspective and meticulous attention to detail make his memoirs an invaluable contribution to the historical record of this tragic event.

Published by: Martin De Juan