Gemma McGowan
Author
Tactical 16 Publishing
Gemma McGowan
Gemma McGowan is a U.S. Army Captain Veteran, and currently a Department of Defense Army Civilian working overseas in Germany but hails from New Jersey.
Gemma holds a M.S. in Organizational Leadership from Southern New Hampshire University and a B.A. in American Studies from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. She also attended a post graduate seminar class at the Harvard University, Kennedy School and a Leader Development Program at the Center for Creative Leadership in Brussels, Belgium.
Gemma received a Bronze Star Medal for her leadership and actions in Baghdad, Iraq. She was the first female VFW Post Commander for VFW Post 27, Watch on the Rhine in Wiesbaden, Germany. She also volunteers as the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Chapter President of the General C.W. Abrams Chapter in Wiesbaden, Germany where she leads 2,000 members.
“In my book I share how I went from a suburban town in northern New Jersey to leading soldiers and finding my flowers in Baghdad,” said McGowan, who earned a Bronze Star Medal for her leadership and actions while in Baghdad. “Finding the positives in all situations, or the flowers.”
Flowers From Baghdad
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Tactical 16 Publishing specializes in working with authors in the armed forces, police, fire, and rescue communities.
Get The Latest News
Subscribe and get the latest news about Tactical 16 as well as new and existing authors and their books. Learn how to get:
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- Signed copies of new releases!
- Free Tactical 16 Swag!
- Signing party notifications!
- Advanced notice of upcoming releases!
Angelica Duffy –
Gemma McGowan’s Flowers from Baghdad is a compelling memoir that blends personal growth, military service, and leadership lessons into a deeply engaging narrative. McGowan’s writing brings readers into the emotional and psychological landscape of a young officer navigating the challenges of deployment, command, and self-discovery. Her ability to capture the gravity of small moments—words exchanged, choices made, and friendships forged—makes the book resonate on a human level beyond just a military audience. Through her candid storytelling, she not only highlights the difficulties of being a female leader in a traditionally male-dominated space but also demonstrates how perseverance, confidence, and adaptability can lead to success in any high-pressure environment.
What sets Flowers from Baghdad apart is McGowan’s infectious enthusiasm for leadership and service, which shines through in every chapter. Her journey, from ROTC to combat zones to positions of influence within military organizations, illustrates a leadership philosophy rooted in authenticity and collective growth. Whether describing the weight of decision-making in combat or the camaraderie that defines military life, McGowan makes her experiences both relatable and instructive. Her reflections on leadership, teamwork, and finding one’s “tribe” serve as a guide not only for young officers but for anyone looking to lead with integrity and purpose. This book is a must-read for military professionals, veterans, and civilians alike—offering an inspiring and honest look at what it means to lead and serve.