Book excerpt: The Alchemy of Combat is a process of breakdown and renewal, and from that breakdown can come the transformational discovery of meaning and purpose, of a higher awareness with an expanded and inspired worldview, and uplifting happiness for the soul. Larry R. Decker Ph.D. provides a guide through this process for therapists as well as family, friends, loved ones, colleagues and others caring for combat veterans who are seeking to move through Posttraumatic Stress Disorder into a renewal of life through Posttraumatic Growth.