Battle Tested: An Autobiography

by Jamal Byrd

Battle Tested
Battles not only occur in warzones, they also materialize in life as individuals face strong opposing forces. Jamal Byrd uses this illustration to depict his intricate story. Come take a walk in Jamal’s shoes as he leads you through his unbelievable journey. Jamal has unveiled his life through this decidedly honest and passionate, yet invigorating novel. From life-threatening injuries and heartbreak, to triumph and achievements. His roller coaster campaign is constantly oscillating as you witness his captivating ride. Jamal’s pursuit of God was continuously tested by his decisions and life’s trails. All the while, his faith in God flourished as he grew closer to the Lord.

In addition to character development, Jamal’s unique athletic experience is thoroughly engaging, providing you with a first-hand account of in-game action. Finally, an exclusive United States Air Force Academy encounter from an African-American football player furnishes a one-of-a-kind perspective and an inside look into one of our nation’s service academies.

His perseverance and exposure to unprecedented circumstances offer enlightenment, along with the wealth of valuable research and knowledge he shares throughout the book.

331 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 11, 2022

About the author

Growing up in the rough city of Tacoma, Jamal has played sports his entire life, helping him circumvent a negative environment. Jamal capitalized on his athletic ability, earning a football scholarship to the United States Air Force Academy. There he received his bachelor's degree in management from the Air Force Academy in 2015. Upon graduation, Jamal served five years in the Air Force as an acquisitions officer before being medically retired. He then began his next career as a defense contractor supporting the Space Force, where he currently works as an acquisition analyst.
Jamal never envisioned becoming an author. The endeavor manifested as result of his life’s unprecedented outcomes. After graduating from the Academy, Jamal desired to share his collegiate experience with the world because of its uniqueness. This desire led Jamal to begin composing his work. Originally designed to be a memoir, Jamal's book evolved into an autobiography as necessary background information expanded to include the rest of his life.
Jamal is a prodigious family man. After God, he cherishes his loved ones before everything else. He is currently married to his beautiful wife, Shaianne, with a 1-year-old son (Malachi) and a 9-year-old stepson (Derek). Jamal enjoys traveling with his family and cherishes a good steakhouse. He still loves sports and is an avid Detroit Lions and Air Force fan. He also enjoys playing Call of Duty in his spare time and working on his cars. Jamal owns a 1985 Chevrolet Camaro I-Roc Z28 and a 2021 Chevrolet C8 Corvette. He appreciates eschatology as well, as Biblical prophecy unfolds before our eyes.
Outside of his family and hobbies, Jamal provides football training to young athletes, owns a Christian clothing business, and is a real estate investor. He plans on taking his real estate sales exam soon to become a salesperson which will aid his real estate investing goal. Moreover, he is striving to build capital to acquire more rental properties and increase his portfolio. Lastly, he is aiming to become financially stable enough to embark on his high school football coaching career. Jamal and his family currently reside in the Golden State as they await the construction of their new home in Arizona.

Reviews

[Kajori · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Battle Tested: An Autobiography", Jamal Byrd brings to us his life story. A talented sportsman since childhood, Byrd had to overcome a lot of challenges to build a successful life. He had to persevere through the crime-riddled atmosphere of Tacoma and the demanding conditions of the United States Air Force Academy to reach where he is today. Through his story, Byrd proves we can achieve great things by remaining faithful and level-headed. I recommend this book to sports fans and Christians.

[PatriotWrites · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jamal Byrd provides and extremely detailed account of his life from playing youth basketball at the Boys and Girls club through an array of life milestones in his debut book. Guided by a deep-seated faith in God and perseverance, Byrd aspires to share his story and inspire others to overcome their obstacles.