Mary Edwards Wertsch

2026 Worldwide Gathering of Brats

About Mary

Mary Edwards Wertsch, a seasoned investigative reporter and writer, is the author of the non-fiction book Military Brats: Legacies of Childhood inside the Fortress, which broke new ground in its analysis of the military as a home culture for the children raised within it. 

Mary has an authentic brat resume of her own:  The daughter of a career Army infantry officer, her childhood encompassed three countries, 20 different houses, and 12 schools by the time she was 18.  Her 1973 B.A. in philosophy was earned at the College of William and Mary, a popular college destination for military families of the time.  After graduation she pursued journalism and writing, which she attributes to her nomad's abiding interest in other peoples' belonging.  And she kept on moving. Currently she lives in Maryland in dwelling no. 48 with her husband of 41 years, James V. Wertsch. She spends her time as an artist (MaryEdwardsWertschArtist.net) and as a activist patriot for democracy.

Coming Home to Ourselves

Mary's Keynote Address

Mary loves engaging with Brat audiences and talking about what makes our tribe the most unusual one on the planet. She will explore why our tribe is as authentic a culture as any other, what sets it apart, how she came to these conclusions, why sharing our stories with one another is the way we go home again, and why she believes that, for us to live our best lives, it's not enough to have lived the Brat experience—we need to understand it.

Thursday afternoon: Teen Club
Join Mary for an informal conversation and the opportunity to share stories and connect with her.

Friday morning: Teen Club
Mary will be available for more informal conversation and to listen to your stories.

Book signing opportunity