Drafted: I'm Not Supposed To Be Here

by Rich Allan, Virtual Voice (Narrator)

I'm Not Supposed To Be Here is a gripping and humorous coming-of-age novel by Army veteran Rich Allan. Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War era, the story follows 19-year-old Eli J. Jones, a college student who finds himself illegally drafted into the U.S. Army in 1966.
From the moment Eli steps into the chaotic world of military life, he faces a series of absurd and life-threatening challenges. With his mantra "I'm not supposed to be here," Eli navigates the trials of basic training, encounters eccentric comrades, and contends with a tyrannical drill sergeant. As he progresses through the ranks, Eli's journey takes him from the swamps of Georgia to the jungles of Vietnam, where he discovers the true meaning of courage, friendship, and survival.
Rich Allan's firsthand experience as an Army officer infuses the narrative with authenticity and insight, while his sharp wit provides a satirical lens on the absurdities of war. Drafted is not just a war story; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Audible Audio

Published April 9, 2025

About the author

Richard Jones has been a reader and a writer all his life, getting his first library card at eight years old. He is a published author - DRAFTED & IDENTITY CHECK, communications executive, actor, musician, singer, and songwriter. He is listed in Who’s Who in Entertainment and accredited by the Public Relations Society of America, holding an M.A. in Journalism and a B.A. in Communications from The Ohio State University. An Army veteran, he proudly served as a 1st Lieutenant during the Vietnam War era and a DC lobbyist. Jones resides in Los Angeles, California, with his wife, Diane, Sunset, the Conure, and Lily the Beagle.