Retired U.S. Army Col. Willette Alston-Hockaday, a decorated veteran and current JROTC teacher in Charleston, S.C., shares her inspiring journey from crack cocaine addiction to 32 years of sobriety in her memoir From Crack to Colonel.
Military Career
Alston-Hockaday served in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, later re-enlisting in 1997 for roles in Germany, the Pentagon, and the Chicago Military Entrance Processing Station. She rose to full bird colonel, traveling globally in leadership positions.
Addiction and Recovery
Addiction struck in 1991 amid personal turmoil, dropping her weight to 99 pounds and straining family ties; she also battled alcoholism, relapsing after initial rehab. Fearing loss of her son—now 34—she committed to sobriety, crediting faith and family for her redemption.
Memoir and Impact
Self-published after retiring in 2023, the book details her near-death struggles and triumph, aiming to help others. Readers report life-changing insights, fulfilling her goal of aiding at least one person.
Book Signing
A free public event with food and conversation occurs Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at The Coan, 359 Treeland Drive, Ladson, S.C.
