Help Local Indigenous Veteran Joseph Maes Reprint His Memoir

Help Stockton Preserve a Vital Indigenous Voice: Joe Maes' Vietnam War Memoir

Joe Maes, a Southern Ute elder, Vietnam veteran, and Stockton native, wrote a memoir so powerful that the first printing sold out completely. Now our community has the chance to keep this essential voice alive.

Joe's story is deeply woven into Stockton's fabric. Raised in our city's diverse neighborhoods, he was just 19 when he was drafted into Vietnam's deadliest year. His memoir isn't just a war story—it's a testament to how his Indigenous heritage and the wisdom passed down through generations helped him survive when so many others didn't make it home.

Today, as Native American veterans' stories remain underrepresented in military literature, Joe's memoir stands as a beacon. His account of how traditional Indigenous teachings helped him navigate the horrors of war offers crucial insights for both Native and non-Native readers alike. At a time when Indigenous voices are finally being amplified in American literature, we can't let this vital perspective fade away.

Tuleburg Press, our city's leading advocate for diverse voices and literacy, has been proud to publish Joe's story. As a non-profit publisher dedicated to mentoring local writers, we believe Stockton's stories matter—especially ones that speak to our rich cultural diversity. After the immense success of the first printing, which led to a fully sold-out stock, we need your help to reprint this deeply impactful memoir.

Your support will:

• Fund a second printing through Stockton's own Tuleburg Press
• Preserve a rare Indigenous perspective on the Vietnam War
• Keep this important story available for local schools and libraries
• Strengthen our community's literary heritage

The impact of Joe's book has reached far beyond our city limits. As internationally-known author and Stockton native Maxine Hong Kingston notes, "This book is so mighty, so deeply felt, it's hard to find the right words strong enough to describe it." But its heart remains here in Stockton, where Joe continues to serve our veteran community and share his wisdom with younger generations.

This is more than just reprinting a book—it's about Stockton taking care of its own. It's about ensuring that Indigenous perspectives aren't lost to time. It's about showing that our city values its diverse voices and preserves its important stories.

Join your fellow Stocktonians in keeping this vital story in print. Help us ensure that future generations can learn from Joe's experiences, understand our city's connection to this important history, and appreciate the power of Indigenous wisdom in the face of unimaginable challenges.

Because when we preserve one story, we strengthen our entire community's voice.