about the author
About Anthony “Swazi” Atkinson
A Life Shaped by Disciple, Service, and Experience
Anthony “Swazi” Atkinson writes from a life built through perseverance and hard work. His stories carry the perspective of someone who has lived through many defining moments—from growing up in the American South during segregation to serving in two branches of the United States military.
Today, Anthony Atkinson is known as a military veteran author whose work reflects personal history, faith, and imagination. The books by Anthony Atkinson draw from experiences gathered across decades of service, professional work, and reflection.
His writing offers readers insight into the events and beliefs that shaped his path.
Early Life in North Carolina
Anthony Atkinson was born on March 3, 1954, in Wilmington, North Carolina. He grew up during the final years of segregation, a time that shaped the environment around him and influenced how he viewed fairness, identity, and opportunity.
During his school years, he earned the nickname “Swazi.” At first, the name was used in a way he did not welcome. Later, he discovered its meaning. “Swazi” referred to a Black warrior or king in Swahili. Once he understood the meaning, the name became a symbol of strength and self-respect that remained with him.
Sports became the first avenue that opened new opportunities.
Basketball and College Years
Basketball played a major role in Anthony’s early life. His dedication to the game earned him a scholarship to Brevard Junior College in Cocoa Beach, Florida, where he attended from 1972 to 1974.
After Brevard, he continued his education and athletic career at Georgia State University from 1974 to 1976 on another basketball scholarship. During his first year there, Anthony became the team’s leading scorer.
Competition on the court demanded discipline and endurance. Those qualities would later prove essential in the next chapter of his life.
Military Service and Technical Training
In 1977, Anthony joined the United States Marine Corps. He trained as an aircraft mechanic and served for four years. The work required precision, teamwork, and careful attention to detail.
After completing his service in the Marines, Anthony continued his military career in the United States Air Force from 1981 through 1985. There, he trained as an aerospace ground equipment specialist.
Service in both branches of the military broadened his perspective and exposed him to new environments and cultures. During his time in the Air Force, he spent periods stationed overseas, including assignments in Turkey and Greece.
These experiences added depth to a life already shaped by discipline and responsibility.
A Career in Aviation
Following his military service, Anthony began a long civilian career in aviation maintenance.
In 1985, he joined United Airlines as an aircraft sheet-metal mechanic. The role required technical skill and careful judgment. Aircraft maintenance allows little room for error, and the job demanded constant focus.
Anthony remained in the aviation field for decades. In 2016, he worked with Kalitta Airways in Michigan as an airline inspector. Later, in 2019, he became an instructor at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance in Duluth, Georgia.
There, he shared his knowledge and experience with students entering the aviation industry.
The Writing of Anthony “Swazi” Atkinson
Writing came after many of these life experiences had already taken place. Over time, Anthony began to reflect on the lessons gathered through sports, military service, professional work, and personal challenges.
Those reflections eventually became the foundation for the books by Anthony Atkinson.
His first book, Swazi Let the Truth Be Told: Taking a Look at the Past, shares personal experiences and explores the role faith played in shaping his life. His second book, The Swazi Warrior, moves into speculative fiction, combining science fiction with historical themes.
Today, Anthony “Swazi” Atkinson continues writing as both a storyteller and a veteran author whose work reflects lived experience, imagination, and a long record of perseverance.
A Life of Service, Faith, and Purpose
The life of Anthony “Swazi” Atkinson reflects several distinct chapters. Each one shaped the voice readers encounter in his writing.
1954
Born in Wilmington, North Carolina.
1972
Graduated from John T. Hoggard High School.
1972 – 1974
Attended Brevard College on a basketball scholarship.
1974 – 1976
Played basketball at Georgia State University.
1977 – 1981
Served in the United States Marine Corps as an aircraft mechanic.
1981 – 1985
Served in the United States Air Force as an aerospace ground equipment specialist.
1985
Began a civilian aviation career as an aircraft mechanic with United Airlines.
2016
Worked as an airline inspector for Kalitta Airways.
2019
Became an instructor at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance.
Today
Author and storyteller sharing personal history and imaginative fiction.
Get in Touch
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