A Three-Star General Saluted the Truck Driver at My Daughter’s Army Ceremony All Because of the Worn Leather Band on My Wrist

from their hand and hit the bleacher with a clatter.

Mercer held the salute.

I didn’t return it right away. Not because I didn’t understand respect. Because for one second I wasn’t in that stadium anymore. I was back in heat and dust and smoke and shouting. Back where the leather band had first been pressed into my palm. Back where Sergeant Holloway continue reading …