Fastening that top button on my shirt was a struggle in more ways than one. This was never planned or wanted. Yet Gladys looked so radiant in her outfit, I hadn’t seen that glow since she had the kids.
Knowing how much this meant to her was the boost I needed to continue. The kids couldn’t be here but they would see the video. Expected when they all live in different countries.
Seemed wrong to get an AO just because I did my job. Besides two of our unit didn’t make it home, so the mission wasn’t really successful.
AO = queens award for military service
Carrot Ranch: July 5, 2018, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story that includes buttons. You can use the word plural or singular in different expressions, or focus on how buttons relate to a story. Go where the prompt leads.
aroused 
[…] Reluctant Hero by kate @ aroused […]
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Kate, your last line gave me both chills and tears. Every soldier who comes home lost someone, and every survivor struggles with the guilt. You express this complexity of the human experience in combat and civilian life so well.
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It’s a common theme, but also commonly misunderstood by those unfamiliar with combat veterans.
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yes that the loss of one team member is more overwhelming than any achievements …
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No one really is a winner in a war…ever 😦
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Those who sell the weapons make huge profits that’s why they make sure there are several wars on around the world at anytime … it’s ONLY about PROFIT!
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This is very in line with Charli’s idea about hero’s not seeing themselves in that light. VEry nice flash.
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Thanks Robbie .. I come from a family of cannon fodder and then worked with war veterans for years so I had a head start for this one 🙂
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The abiding issue of those wiling to serve, and those willing to send them, and the lies and grief along the way. Great tale Kate.
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yes … all wars must STOP … only gun runners profit!
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The crux of the problem revealed in the last sentence.Well done.
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OH! Wonderful story, Kate!
And I do love buttons!
HUGS!!! 🙂
PS…always sad for those who don’t make it home. 😦
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All the pins that show what we have accomplished can be meaningless if grief is also attached. But like your ‘man’ – others benefit from such presentations.
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yes for some it’s only family devotion that makes them attend such ceremonies .. they are not thrilled!
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