Irma S. Chambers

A YEAR AGO… I’D JUST LAUGH

A year ago if someone told me that I would go halfway around the world…
I’d just laugh!!!

A year ago if I was told that I would handle a M1A1 rifle and know combat skills
And survive on nothing more than the clothes on my back…
I’d just laugh!!!

A year ago if someone told me to put away my jeans and high heels
Because I’d be wearing combat boots and army greens…
– I’d say no way!!! –
And I’d just laugh!!!!

A year ago if someone told me I’d be going to war in the Middle East….
– I’d say “what war? –
– “Were at peace!” –
And I’d just laugh!!!

Well, a year ago I wasn’t in the army, and a year has passed…

Now, I’m in Saudi Arabia:
I carry my weapon at all times
I live in the desert
I wear DCU’s
And we are at war!!!!

– “I’m not laughing anymore” –

©Copyright March 28, 1991 by Irma S. Sauceda (now Chambers)

Author’s Note: Written while on duty in Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Storm