I spent twenty years away from my place of birth. Seven years as a military wife and thirteen more working among active duty military, veterans, and their families. I returned home to reconnect with family and friends, and instead of feeling a part of the group, I felt like an interloper trying to wheedle my way in. It was work.

Fifteen years later, I attended a veterans writing group on a research mission. Within minutes, I felt I was back among my tribe. I was an immediate integral part. The military brotherhood is a bonded group stronger than family.

Note; I’m sorry I couldn’t include “and Sisterhood” due to word count restriction.

Written in response to Charli Mills February 6, 2024, prompt at Carrot Ranch Literary: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about something lost now found. Is it an object or person who is lost? How are they lost? What happens when what was lost is found? Go where the prompt leads!