First Line of Defense: The Catholic Man’s Call to Heroism

Authors: Douglas J. Barry, Daniel O'Connor

A man—especially a father—is called to defend, protect, and foster what is noble and good. Indeed, it is for this he was created, not only spiritually, but physically. Bravery is written into his very being. Men can only be truly happy when they have laid down their lives for the Kingdom of God.

But despite society’s promotion of health and fitness, modern life has all but quenched man’s heroic spirit, smothering it with lame distractions, from fantasy sports to petty internet debates, or killing it with evils like pornography. Even the “manliest” of men often put comfort first, scrolling their phone while their family, neighborhood, or parish goes to seed.

This work aims to spark a revolution, reawakening men to their deepest identity—not as “alpha” or “sigma” males, but as soldiers of Christ. To come fully alive, we must rediscover the courage of the apostles, who risked pain, humiliation, and death in the pursuit and defense of the truth.

First Line of Defense is for men in every walk of life, reminding them that they are called to be great. With directness and clarity, Doug Barry and Daniel O’Connor show what it could mean to live a heroic life of duty, courage, strength, sacrifice, and dedication—that is, to be a saint.

Douglas J. Barry

Doug Barry, devoted husband and father of five children, has been the host of two popular series on EWTN television, Life on the Rock and Battle Ready. He currently is a co-host of the podcast U. S. Grace Force. For over 30 years he has traveled both nationally and internationally to speak about and defend the Catholic faith. 

Daniel O'Connor

Daniel O’Connor, the author of several books, has a master’s degree in Philosophical Theology and is an adjunct professor of philosophy and religion at a State University of New York Community College. He obtained an honorary doctorate from Holy Apostles College & Seminary. He originally worked as a mechanical engineer at GE Global Research. He lives in New York with his wife, Regina, and their six children.