Redeployment

By Kevin Knight

Finally the bus stops.

We pack out one by one to the dirt square,

Then offload the bags for the last time.

I can hear the echoing laughter and footsteps

Of our loved ones inside the gymnasium.

First Sergeant refocuses the masses

And steadies us for rehearsals.

There’s smiles all around,

With a few sprinkled looks of indifference.

Some of the Soldiers won’t get the happily ever after

They first left home with.

But that’s alright,

We all came home this time around,

And I think that’s good enough for everyone today.

My heart’s beating so fast,

As we finally begin what feels like the longest march

Of my life into the gymnasium.

The installations marching band plays the entrance music.

I see my friends in the bleachers amongst the sea of crying faces

And banners that portray each Soldier’s name.

The music stops, followed by a crisp and thunderous “RIGHT-FACE”

By the Command Sergeant Major,

One of the best Non-Commissioned Officers

I’ve ever had the pleasure of serving with.

A few words from the Commander,

Followed by a few from the Commanding General,

Then finally the dismissal.

You can’t put words to the emotions that fill this room today.

I take it in one final time before I head for the door.

My friends grab my bags and let me know I’ve done enough this year

They’ll take it from here.

It’s always a bittersweet moment coming back,

But I’m glad I’m finally home.

****

Dr. Kevin Knight is a U.S. Army Major and Medical Service Corps Officer stationed at Fort Bragg, NC. Kevin was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. His work is currently featured in Wingless Dreamers' "My Glorious Quill", and is forthcoming in Genre Urban Arts' BLACKOUT edition and Southeast Missouri State University Press' "Proud To Be" edition.