My husband’s olive drab kit bag with its sturdy straps, heavy-duty fasteners, locking flap, pocket name tape, and distinctive smell was the focal point of the room, always packed with bundles of clothes, bedding, and a small black pillow that was learned by trial and error. The gear and bag denoted readiness and my husband carried it as a badge of honor for over a decade. Ready at a moment’s notice, a symbol of deployment, it was hated by our old cat. I sympathized with the cat’s displeasure until he sprayed the bag. The Army only made it water resistant.
Carmen Eicher is an adventurous, passionate redhead who tells stories about everyday people and a few pretend people. Facebook: Carmen Eicher Author Instagram: @carmen_eicher_author