Today the world is full of politically confused and spiritually weak people. In the middle of this, Dana J. Bahan stands up hoping to steer the people of this beautiful country out from what he calls the “Woke Movement.” With his latest book, Dreams From Our Fathers, he is calling people to turn back to their foundational roots and the blessed teachings of Jesus Christ. “I think we need to stand up for righteousness but not as judges,” he says while accepting that nobody is a perfect being.
The Humble Beginnings of Bahan
Born in a small town in Bloomington, Illinois, on July 20, 1949, Bahan grew up enjoying hunting and fishing with his grandparents and father. Through his dad’s love for sports, he mastered baseball, which helped his succeed in high school and college. His early life was marked by frequent moves, attending 10 different schools before repeating eighth grade, yet he cherished the simplicity of small-town living. Before pursuing his higher education, he served honorably in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam era from 1969 to 1973, working in law enforcement and earning an honorable discharge. Later, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Trinity College and a master’s in physical education and recreation from Illinois State University. Inspired by historian David Barton, who explores America’s founding principles in his book Original Intent, Bahan developed a deep appreciation for the nation’s Christian roots. Writings from Messianic Jewish publications, such as Israel My Glory and Friends of Israel, which blend Christian faith with Jewish heritage, also shaped his worldview. He was also greatly inspired by three back to back shows on TBN by powerful godly servants who in my opinion are the best news outlets on TV at 5pm (CST) is the Charlie Kirk News, founder of Turning Point USA, ministering to college students at numerous universities. Then is followed by Pastor Allen Jackson who does a great job reminding Christians to stand up for their faith, and to actively vote, and not to be silent or complicit with cultural evil. Then we have the Eric Stickleback Show who interviews Christian politicians and important people who are fighting the “good faith battle!” He also hosts the “Boots on the Ground” in Israel with accurate reporting.
From Listening to Radio to Writing Books
Bahan was unaware of the deeper issues facing the country until he began listening to conservative talk radio while working as an independent contractor delivering campers. This sparked his desire to write. “After knowing the crisis my country is facing, I decided to write a book about our founders and what they believe,” he shared when asked what inspired his to write Dreams From Our Fathers. While crafting the book, he focused on inspiring citizens to reconnect with the Christian principles upon which the nation was built. “I wanted to share His (Jesus Christ) truth, not just my opinions,” he explains, emphasizing his mission to spread God’s word over personal views. His forthcoming book, America’s First Love, targets people of faith more directly but shares a similar goal of reminding readers of America’s godly heritage. Despite challenges with fraudulent publishers that cost his money and continue to sell his work illegally, Bahan remains committed to his purpose, driven not by profit but by a desire to inform and inspire.
Constitution – One Solution for All Problems
Bahan firmly believes that the U.S. Constitution holds the key to resolving the nation’s challenges and has the potential to make America great again. “Traditional Christian values essentially underpin our Constitution, which in turn creates our national identity,” he says, highlighting the importance of a faith-based national identity. He finds it unfortunate that foreign ideologies, such as Communism and Marxism, have infiltrated the country, causing significant problems. The primary aim of Dreams From Our Fathers is to encourage people to have faith in the constitutional system and to vote responsibly, especially among Christians, whom he notes often shy away from politics due to its divisiveness. Quoting founder Benjamin Rush on the back of his book, he reminds readers, “When the righteous rule, people rejoice. When the wicked rule, the people groan.” He also draws on George Washington’s warning against excessive allegiance to political parties, which he believes leads to corruption, urging citizens to prioritize principles over partisanship.
A Call to Action and Hope for the Future
For Bahan, writing is a way to share his Bible-rooted beliefs and remind Americans of the godly leaders who shaped the nation. He sees a troubling rise in movements like transgenderism and what he calls “evil” ideologies, urging Christians to stand firm without judgment, acknowledging human imperfection. Yet, he finds hope in the younger generation, particularly Gen Z, who are purchasing Bibles in record numbers, with sales up 22% recently. “They’re looking for meaning in life,” he notes, encouraged by their search for truth amid governmental failures. Bahan’s vision extends beyond his books; he seeks a revival, a return to God in schools, government, and culture. “We live in a fallen world, but with God, we can influence our society for positive things,” he says, holding fast to the belief that faith can spark transformation.
Through Dreams From Our Fathers and America’s First Love, Bahan calls on Americans to remember their heritage, embrace Christian values, and actively engage in shaping a future that honors the nation’s founding principles. His journey, from a small-town upbringing to military service, education, and authorship, reflects a life dedicated to faith and service. As he continues to write and share his message, Bahan remains steadfast in his mission to guide the nation back to its “first love” and restore its greatness through God’s truth.
About the Author
Dana J. Bahan is a writer, veteran, and passionate advocate for America’s Christian heritage. After a childhood marked by frequent moves, he served honorably in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam era, working in law enforcement. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Trinity College and a master’s in physical education and recreation from Illinois State University. His career spanned roles as a recreation director and chaplain at a children’s home, blending faith and mentorship to guide youth. Now semi-retired, Dana inspires through his books Dreams From Our Fathers and America’s First Love, cherishing small-town life, baseball, and sharing God’s truth.
