An American Airman

By Michelle Laflamme

I raised my hand

And took an oath

With yesterday’s radiation burns

In a dress that no longer fits

I cried

My husband swore me in

Was it service?

Was it integrity?

Was it excellence?

It was hubris

Waiting for my mission

Which finally came

CCATT!!!

And having letters

After my name

They had no choice

It was what they needed

I silent scream

I am still smart

Yeah, now I am broken

Half a woman

On borrowed time

They didn’t want me

Gold to silver oak leaves

Meant nothing

I didn’t belong

My country let me down

I cried

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