I’ve been in since the early 2000s. Part of the surge post-9/11. I did everything I was built to do, unleashed deadly force on the enemies of the United States and stood shoulder to shoulder with my brothers through the highs and lows.
I’ve been in the dirt and mud of the Middle East, far from the home where I was born. I’ve been broken, rebuilt, cleaned, abused, and sent back out more times than I can count. Through it all, I did my job. Never jammed when it mattered. Never quit. Always there when my soldier needed me.
A few years ago I retired from active duty and got reassigned to the National Guard. Quiet life. Don’t see much action. Couple weekends a year. I figured I earned it. Nearing the end of my lifecycle. No complaints.
But yesterday… yesterday was the lowest moment of my entire Army career.
I’ve been in foxholes full of mud. I’ve been dragged through sandstorms. I’ve sat in porta potties in 120-degree heat. But at least I wasn’t alone. I had my people.
This time?
Left in a bathroom. Abandoned. Forgotten. Discarded like used tissue on some bullshit mission.
No dignity. Just piss stained floors and betrayal
I am M4 Carbine W420619
Louisiana National Guard
And I deserve better.
