Storytelling for those who served.
Valor Press—an imprint of Ballast Books—partners closely with veterans and first responders to craft high-quality, professionally published books that are available wherever books are sold. We honor the voices of those who’ve served by helping them share their insights and experiences with the world.
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Services
Valor Press. Where service meets story.
We partner with veterans and first responders to professionally publish their stories with care, precision, and purpose, turning experiences into lasting legacies.
The Man in the Arena
Navy SEAL Eddie Gallagher shares his powerful life story with Andrea Gallagher.
Tip of the Spear
Navy SEAL and CIA operative Rodney Magallan reveals missions and insights.
Relentless Positivity
Admiral Kyle Cozad’s inspiring journey of resilience and leadership.
Testimonials
See what our customes say about us
See what our authors say about working with Valor Press, and how our team helped transform their experiences and insights into powerful, professionally published books that inspire readers everywhere.
“LT Kegan “SMURF” Gill, USN (Ret.), is a former US Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet pilot, best known for enduring the fastest survived...“ Read more ->
“Rear Admiral Kyle Cozad graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1985. His Navy career centered around aviation training and...“ Read more ->
“Rodney Magallan, a respected subject matter expert in protective operations and personal security operations, has vast experience...“ Read more ->
“Kristin (Otterson) Cronic is an artist and United States Naval Academy (USNA) graduate. She has a BS in naval architecture and was...“ Read more ->
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A People-First Publishing Process
Our high-touch process puts people first. From the first conversation to the final launch, we walk alongside our authors every step of the way. Our team includes industry-leading editors, award-winning designers, and marketers who specialize in connecting powerful stories with the audiences who need them most — especially within the veteran and first responder communities.
Publishing with Partnership, Precision, and Purpose
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all publishing. We believe in partnership, precision, and purpose. Every book we publish is handled with the same level of personal attention and professional excellence we’d want for our own stories.
Turning Stories into Lasting Legacies
These aren’t just books — they’re legacies. They carry lessons, hope, and healing. It’s our honor to help bring them to life.
Every service has a story. We help you tell yours.
Every service has a story. We help you tell yours.
Who We Are
Andy Symonds
Andy Symonds is the President and Publisher of Valor Press. As a military brat, Andy grew up on military bases around the world. He entered the world of publishing when working on his first book, My Father’s Son, and has since written eight additional books, most in the nonfiction military space.
Andy started Ballast Books in 2019, and has grown it and its imprints into one of the most well-respected independent publishing houses in the industry. As the go-to publisher for veterans and first-responders, Ballast Books is proud to create Valor Press, an imprint focused solely on those authors who have served. With a passion for storytelling and helping veterans, Andy works closely with every Valor Press author from start to finish.
“Book-making is my passion. Since childhood, storytelling and writing have been at the forefront of everything I do, and I’m honored to publish the important stories of those who have served our country. Helping the selfless servants who put duty above self is a responsibility I take very seriously.
Andy started Ballast Books in 2019, and has grown it and its imprints into one of the most well-respected independent publishing houses in the industry. As the go-to publisher for veterans and first-responders, Ballast Books is proud to create Valor Press, an imprint focused solely on those authors who have served. With a passion for storytelling and helping veterans, Andy works closely with every Valor Press author from start to finish.
“Book-making is my passion. Since childhood, storytelling and writing have been at the forefront of everything I do, and I’m honored to publish the important stories of those who have served our country. Helping the selfless servants who put duty above self is a responsibility I take very seriously.
Who We Are
Vince Vargas
Vince Vargas is a board member of Valor Press. As a combat veteran and author, Vince is uniquely positioned to help our authors get their stories into the world. After serving three combat deployments with 2nd Battalion of the elite 75th Ranger Regiment, he continued his service in the U.S. Army Reserves until retirement. In 2009, he became a Federal Agent with the Department of Homeland Security and served as a medic with the Special Operations Group of the U.S. Border Patrol.
Vince is a veteran, author, entrepreneur, actor, writer, producer, and motivational speaker focused on veteran advocacy, leadership, military transition, youth empowerment, and men’s mental health. He is also a passionate advocate for storytelling as a tool for healing, connection, and legacy. Above all, he’s a husband and proud father of eight amazing kids. With years of experience in service and leadership, he’s seen firsthand how words can inspire, educate, and transform lives.
“As a board member of Valor Press, I’m committed to amplifying voices of service and sacrifice—ensuring stories of courage and resilience reach the audiences who need them most. Books have the power to heal, unite, and spark change. Valor Press isn’t just publishing stories—it’s building a legacy. It’s a platform for voices that inspire strength, hope, and purpose. That’s a mission I’m proud to stand behind.”
Vince is a veteran, author, entrepreneur, actor, writer, producer, and motivational speaker focused on veteran advocacy, leadership, military transition, youth empowerment, and men’s mental health. He is also a passionate advocate for storytelling as a tool for healing, connection, and legacy. Above all, he’s a husband and proud father of eight amazing kids. With years of experience in service and leadership, he’s seen firsthand how words can inspire, educate, and transform lives.
“As a board member of Valor Press, I’m committed to amplifying voices of service and sacrifice—ensuring stories of courage and resilience reach the audiences who need them most. Books have the power to heal, unite, and spark change. Valor Press isn’t just publishing stories—it’s building a legacy. It’s a platform for voices that inspire strength, hope, and purpose. That’s a mission I’m proud to stand behind.”
Why Choose Valor Press
Where Service Meets Story
Valor Press combines veteran‑led insight, personalized editorial support, and seamless Shopify integration to honor your legacy and deliver your book to readers everywhere.
Personalized Guidance
From first conversation through launch, we prioritize your unique vision.
Veteran-Led Insight
Our team’s military experience ensures authentic storytelling and heartfelt support.
High‑Quality Publishing
Precision editing and design deliver polished books for global distribution.
Award‑Winning Designers
We craft stunning, professional layouts that resonate across veteran audiences.
Seamless Sales Platform
Integrated Shopify store provides smooth purchasing and reliable order management.
Purpose‑Driven Process
Every project reflects your story’s legacy, passion, and mission‑driven purpose.
FAQs
Your question, our answer
Quick answers about submissions, timelines, genres, and post‑launch support at Valor Press.
How do I submit my manuscript?
Fill out the “Tell Us About Your Book” form with your proposal, synopsis, and author bio to begin our review process.
Which genres does Valor Press publish?
We focus on veteran and first‑responder memoirs, military history, and related nonfiction that shine a light on service experiences.
What’s the typical publication timeline?
From proposal acceptance through final launch, expect a 6–8‑month process covering editing, design, and distribution planning.
Do you provide marketing and distribution support?
Yes—our award‑winning team delivers post‑launch marketing strategy, distribution coordination, and promotional assets to maximize reach.
