He is also a published author on subjects such as education, geography and history.

He currently teaches a course to veterans at Fort Stewart in Hinesville designed to help them learn the skills necessary to transition into civilian life and gain employment.

Gillespie has been active in community organizations such as the American Red Cross, Kiwanis, Rotary, Ancient Order of the Hibernians, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Historic Savannah Foundation, Savannah Downtown Community Association, Georgia Southern Science & Technology Board, and the Georgia Southern Irish Studies Board.

Georgia’s First Congressional District is represented by Republican Jack Kingston of Savannah.

Gillespie is the only person, Democrat or Republican, to announce a challenge to Kingston in 2008.