The Call of Battle

I got out of the Army in 2006, after two long tours in Iraq in which I saw civilians killed, Humvees explode, and friends lose their lives. I struggled through anger and depression until I finally found my way—only to realize that I was losing touch with the war that had made me who I was. Then I knew: I had to go back.
by Matt Cook
July 2013
Photograph by Matt Cook

The last time I shot my rifle in war, I killed an old man.

THE REST OF THIS STORY IS AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY TO OUR PRINT SUBSCRIBERS. SUBSCRIBE NOW AND YOU'LL GAIN IMMEDIATE ACCESS TO THIS STORY. (AND WE'LL SEND YOU A BEAUTIFUL MAGAZINE ONCE A MONTH!)

IF YOU'RE ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER, SIGN IN USING THE FIELDS BELOW.

IF YOU'RE ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER BUT DON'T HAVE AN ACCOUNT, CREATE ONE HERE.

CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.
Tags: IRAQ WAR

More Texas Monthly

Loading, please wait...

Most Read

  • Viewed
  • Past:
  • 1 week