This picture came up this morning in my Facebook feed from a few years back. That's me, 2nd from right, looking like a bandit.
Do I miss being in Iraq? Hell nah! But I miss my bros. We all were in the same unit, originating in IL but only Roe, to the left of me in the pic, is still around this area. We get together every now and then and stay in touch on Facebook, but I wish we could hang out more.
You spend a year of your life with these guys, but the bond lasts a lifetime. Even though we don't see each other, I know I could call any of these 3 out of the blue and they'd have my back if I needed them. And they know the same goes for me if they needed help.
Serving in the military is something I've never regretted and wouldn't change. There's a lot of growing up to be done in a conflict zone in a foreign country. When I volunteered I had just finished college and my biggest focus (other than making sure I graduated!) was playing basketball.
It was hard coming home, I felt like I was entirely different person. I had a lot of problems with adjustment, got into some trouble, but now I'm trying to keep to the important things in life, Roman and Millie.
Funny what kind of feeling just seeing an old picture can stir up!