We’re proud to announce that acclaimed author and USAF veteran H. W. “Buzz” Bernard has been named as our 2025 Mike Mullins Memorial Writer of the Year Award Winner.

Buzz’s award-winning novels—including When Heroes Flew, Down a Dark Road, and Where the Dawn Comes Up Like Thunder—have captivated readers with their gripping authenticity, emotional depth, and vivid historical accuracy. They’ve also impressed every team of MWSA reviewers assigned to his books over the years—he’s got the medals to prove it. A former Air Force weather officer and respected voice in military fiction, Buzz exemplifies the spirit of storytelling that MWSA exists to celebrate.

“Buzz Bernard’s books are action-packed, authentic, and deeply respectful of those who serve. I’ve had the pleasure of reading several of his books myself, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed each one.”
— John Cathcart, President of MWSA

The award will be officially presented during the 2025 MWSA Awards Banquet on September 27, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri. We usually wait to announce each year’s Writer of the Year during our annual general membership conference and awards banquet. This year, we decided to break the news a little early.