War might be hell, but it makes for some fine entertainment. From books to movies to video games to hit TV shows, you can find the fascination of the U.S. military throughout American media in every shape or form. But if you do look for such content, it won’t take very long to run into one of the most notorious names created in the genre: Tom Clancy. There isn’t much of anything related to military entertainment that you won’t find Clancy attached to. His novels were a hit and inspired films, video games, and shows. Today, his work is continued by his estate and continues his legacy. Read next:The USSF Launched Its Call of Duty Endowment Trophy Into the Cosmos

Who Is Tom Clancy?

Tom Clancy was a Baltimore native who became a bestselling American author. His work focused on military and espionage-themed novels. The content of these novels would then go on to be adapted and inspire movies, television series, and video games. Today, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan continues to be a fan favorite. The series is an ever-popular staple of Amazon Prime and follows former Marine Veteran Dr. Jack Ryan as he's pulled from his new role as a CIA analyst to follow the trail of bank transfers taking place by terrorists. There are several other titles in which Clancy’s work has enthralled fans including The Hunt for Red October, Rainbow Six, and The Sum of All Fears. Each of these titles has gone on to inspire films and video game series that are favorites among thriller, spy, and military enthusiasts alike.

Was Tom Clancy in the Military?

No, Tom Clancy never served in the military despite his fascination with its world. Before becoming the novelist we all know today, he worked as an insurance agent and relied on his extensive research to deliver content for his books. Tom Clancy's military career was never to be, but perhaps in another life, he would have been a Veteran before writing his illustrious catalog. He did join the Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) while attending college, but Tom Clancy in the military never came to be. He was turned down by the Army after graduating because he suffered from nearsightedness. Despite this setback, Tom Clancy’s military ties continued, as did his interest. Combined with his research ability and his ability to bring words to life, he’d go on to become a best-selling novelist.

The FBI Had Some Concerns

The content in his work would not only capture his audience but also the attention of other, more watchful eyes. In many ways, it’s a compliment to Clancy that the FBI took a bit of an interest in him. Tom Clancy had not served in the military, but he had a particular ability when it came to research, which brought his stories to life. FBI files show details of background checks on author Tom Clancy after rumors circulating about how Clancy was able to be so detailed brought about investigations. The Baltimore Sun filed a FOIA request in October 2013 and found 46 pages, with many having redacted content, of background checks by the federal agency on Clancy. Some were related to the White House Space Council’s interest in hiring Clancy as a consultant. His friends were interviewed, and due diligence was conducted. However, it was a bit strange, as Tom Clancy and the agency’s director at the time, William S. Sessions, interacted with each other from time to time.

Is Tom Clancy Dead?

Yes, Tom Clancy passed away on October 1, 2013, after succumbing to heart failure at the age of 66. Heart problems had been a concern for Clancy for many years, and he passed away at Johns Hopkins Hospital near his home in Baltimore.

How Many Books Did Tom Clancy Write?

Tom Clancy wrote a total of 13 books before his passing throughout his career spanning several decades. However, he worked on a total of 19, of which the others were completed by other authors and his total for all books written adds up to more than 20. Many of his works are still going strong, and his estate carries his legacy through inspired new content that continues to excite fans. Suggested read:Call of Duty: Black Ops 5 Leaks Could Spell Controversy for Franchise