The Principle asked me to be the guest speaker. A lot of veterans should up in the office in uniform. I came to school in my formal uniform that held all my medals. It also showed my arm and leg. My hair was in a strict bun. I had index cards in my had. Mom and Dad came with me to school. When I got out of the car everyone was starring at me. Mom and Dad walked me inside. Dad had his arm arm around my shoulders as mom had hers around my waist. I walk into the office and all soldiers saw my rank. They stood straight and saluted me. I salute back and greeted the principal.
Mom and Dad went to the gym waiting for it to start. I was at the end of the line.
Each one went up to the mike. Stared their name position and experience. The principal went up to the mike.
"Attention students. We have one last veteran here today. I'm sure you saw her this morning but please welcome Dynamite Samuels." The Principal announced.
I walked to the stand.
"Hello I'm sure you know me the shy quiet student. I am Colonel and served two tours in Afghanistan with my squad. At first I didn't want to stand up here and talk. But I owe it to my fellow veterans and soldiers that die in action. Most knew me as the hard core trainer that will make it fun to train hard. Or some new me as Lieutenant kiddo." Some of the veterans laugh.
"I had a big brother that meant the world to me. He was my hero, role model, my rock. We were so close where he went I went. One day we were playing outside. I was six and he was ten. I had accidentally kicked my ball in the street. I had looked both ways and went to get it. I did not see or hear a speeding car turn onto the street. Next thing I know my brother pushed me to the other side of the street while he was hit head on by the car. The car drove away not caring that they just hit a child. I stood there crying looking at my dead brother. I lost the person I loved. I blamed myself for his death. I was also blamed by others I shall not name. I spent years with guilt. He loved watching superhero movies and soldiers. I knew that I want to be like him a hero. So when I had a chance I signed up for the US. Army. I was fifteen. I went to the training camp. When my squad found out how old I was I was scolded Like a father were to their child. Even though I was the youngest in my squad the oldest being twenty seven I tore through the obstacle course. I would always make a contest. Who ever wins won't have to do another mile on the track. They would always run harder. But by the end I would always make it to the finish line first. They made it closer each time but they work hard to beat me. I on the other hand would alway run the extra mile with them and have a good time. They were my family. My brothers in arms. But usually they were my fathers in arms. My squads mission was to confiscate weapons and patrol villages. We did well together. In my second tour was when it went wrong. We were fighting a group that had control of a city. I was firing ammunition one minute, then it went black.
When I woke up I was in extreme pain. I learned I lost my right arm and right leg in an explosion. The government gave me a prosthetic leg and arm. I was also made colonel for leading my squad into battle and won over the village. I was given the Purple Heart for getting wounded in the midst of battle. That's why I walk with a little limp. I thank you veterans for your experience, and for your help in fighting for our freedom. Your country appreciates it. I was sent a letter from the president of our country."
I took out a letter out of my pocket.
"Dear veterans,
I was given a letter by Colonel Dynamite Samuels. She had asked if there was anything I would say to you as a thanks for keeping this countries freedom. She also told me how hard it was from a soldiers point of view. I deeply thank you for serving our country. For taking off on your family's to risk your life for the freedom we foolishly take advantage of. Many lost appendages for your service. Some more so. That is why I decide to come personally and thank you." I said looking at the letter confused. The gym doors opened and the secret service filled in and in walked the President of the United States. The room was quiet and in shocks. All of us veterans stood straight and saluted the commander and chief of the United States.
He walked up to the stage and stood in front of me and saluted. I relaxed with a tear leaked from my face.
He looked to the veterans and saluted them.
They relaxed too.
"Thank you veterans. I was surprised when I got the letter from the colonel. She wanted you to feel like you are appreciated for your service. She was right when she said that. You felt the pain of the wars you fought if it was loss of a friend, limb, family. Some may even lost hope. Once again thank you for your service." He said. There was claps and cheers. The President then whispered in my ear.
"Thank you for your service. I want to invite you to the White House during the summer. I had some doctors work on advanced prosthetics. It will be my honor that you will accept."
I had more tears come down my face. I nodded my head quick. He nodded and walked off stage. I ran to my parents and cried in their shoulders. Today was a long and surprised filled day.
YOU ARE READING
Military living
ActionDynamite Samuels is the name. Weird name right? Well when your parents leave your older brother name you that's what you get. He loved the bugs bunny cartoons where the coyote tries to blow the bunny up. Me and my brother Charles was close. But when...