The American Writer of the famous novel-turned-film, Forrest Gump, he is also known for such nonfiction historical works as Kearny's March: The Epic Creation of the American West, 1846-1847. He published a sequel to Forrest Gump, Gump and Co., in 1995.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and later worked as a reporter for the Washington Star.
His 1986 novel, Forrest Gump, sold over 1.7 million copies.
He was born in Washington, D.C., and he grew up in Alabama. With his wife, Anne Clinton, he had one daughter.
His novel, Forrest Gump, was made into a film starring Tom Hanks.
