For Nixon and the Fallen: The Story Behind Loyal Son
- Wayne Diehl
- Apr 24
- 4 min read
Updated: May 5
“What matters is that you live too, Patrick. It's what your Da would want. You know he'd tell you that. The survival of your family, his family, is what's important. Land and a farm was what he thought would insure that, but in the end, he'd want his seed to grow.” -Jimmy to Patrick
Since the first three books I had written were for my grandchildren, when my grandson, Nixon, arrived there was no question that he would get one too. I began to contemplate what to write, and thought about his heritage. His father, Francisco (Frank) Salinas is of Mexican descent. My daughter, Katy, is of Irish and German stock. I have always been more connected with my Irish background so I thought that something marrying the Irish and Mexican cultures would be a good place to start.
My first idea was a “Buddy” story about two somewhat disreputable but misunderstood boys with those backgrounds. Then they become friends and go on some type of adventure. I was going to call it Paddy and Pancho, and set out writing. I started researching to see what connection, if any, existed in history between Ireland and Mexico, thinking there wasn’t much. I soon discovered the fascinating story of the San Patricio Battalion, a unit of young, immigrant Irishman who joined the U.S. Army for land and opportunity but deserted due to brutal, sadistic treatment from their commanders. I was instantly hooked by their real experience, and quickly discarded Paddy and Pancho.
My maternal grandparents, John and Ellen Ryan, emigrated to Philadelphia from County Cork, Ireland in the late 1800s so I decided to create a fictional character named Patrick Ryan who was sent by his father to Philadelphia in 1844. He was to get land to replace the farm they were being evicted from. I can’t exactly pinpoint when Alicia Salinas came to me, but magically, she did. She arrived as the sister of a Catholic chaplain for the Mexicans, Father Francisco Salinas, known by all as Padre Pancho.
I recently traveled to Mexico City with the Salinas clan. We visited the Chapultepec Castle where one of the last battles of the war took place. The American victory led to the occupation of Mexico City and then to Mexico’s eventual capitulation. We also went to Zócalo, the central square in the city that contains the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. It was a wonderful experience where Nixon and his sister Layla learned more about their Mexican ancestry and we got to see the historic places I wrote about.
I have always enjoyed reading American history, both fiction and non-fiction. I like the combination of actual events with imaginary characters and what they would do in those situations. And being a long admirer of stories about courage and patriotism, it really bothered me that my protagonist was a deserter. How was I going to make Patrick a sympathetic and good character? I tried, and hope that I have accomplished that.
My family has enjoyed these stories that are about them. Well, not everyone. Unfortunately, Nixon is not happy about “his” book. In all the other ones, my grandchildren are characters in the stories but there is no mention of him in Loyal Son. I explained to him that he is the inspiration for the story, being the product of love between his Mexican and Irish parents just like in the book but that didn’t work He has not read it yet, as he is only twelve years old at this writing, but I am hoping some day he will and grow to appreciate it.
Discover the Untold Story of the St. Patrick’s Battalion Loyal Son by Wayne Diehl is a sweeping historical novel rooted in one of the most remarkable and often overlooked alliances of the 19th century.
Eighteen-year-old Patrick Ryan leaves Ireland after his family is evicted from their land, journeying to America in search of land and a new beginning—only to land in the chaos of the 1844 Philadelphia Bible Riots. After losing everything, he enlists in the U.S. Army—not out of loyalty, but out of necessity. What follows is a powerful journey across borders and beliefs, leading him to the famed San Patricios—Irish soldiers who defied orders, crossed lines, and fought for what they believed was right.
Based on true events, Loyal Son is a story of resilience, rebellion, and what it truly means to fight for freedom. Rich in historical detail and emotional depth, this novel invites readers to explore a complex chapter of American and Mexican history through the eyes of a young man forced to choose where his loyalties truly lie.
Whether you're a lover of historical fiction, a student of history, or simply drawn to stories of grit and grace, Loyal Son offers a compelling read you won’t soon forget.
So interesting to learn how the story came about and to share with grandkids!