A Local Father’s Military Past Inspires Powerful New Children’s Book Celebrating Service and Family

When former Marine Corps Officer Ben Olbon decided to write a children’s book, he didn’t have to look far for inspiration. A father of four children, his new picture book, "Daddy, Can I Be a Marine?" is an authentic and uplifting story about a life in service.

In Olbon’s playful story, when two children come across an old box from their father’s U.S. Marine Corps days, it reveals the man in uniform that he was and the pride and honor of what it means to serve. Young readers will join brother and sister Rhys and Lainey as they learn about a Marine’s role in keeping our country safe. As the pair learn about the equipment, uniform, and terms, they also learn more about their father—and their own possible futures as Marines.

About his book, Olbon says, “I think a great book is one that creates an impact on a child at an emotional level. I aim to do that with my book by showing kids exactly what the USMC is and does and the sacrifice and commitment that goes along with it.” With vibrant jewel-toned spreads, a charming text, followed by a glossary and facts page, Olbon’s book is a wonderful read-aloud story about career, service and patriotism for families and educators of young children.

A former Division I basketball player, Olbon currently teaches in the MBA program as an Adjunct Professor for Concordia University. He also founded a personal coaching and leadership development company, Outcome Elite LLC, which focuses on helping students to maximize their potential in sports and in life. He lives with his wife and four children in Rancho Mission Viejo, California.

"Daddy, Can I Be a Marine?" is Olbon’s debut children’s book and is now available for purchase wherever children’s books are sold.