William E. Diehl

William Diehl was a bestselling American author known for fast-paced thrillers including 'Sharky's Machine' and 'Primal Fear,' both adapted into hit films. His writing was heavily influenced by his experiences as a World War II ball turret gunner, for which he received the Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, and Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters. After the war, he worked as a reporter, columnist, and photographer for major publications including the Atlanta Constitution and was involved in civil rights journalism.