"Quiet Intensity"

by Ayman Kafel

Briefing done 
Operation is a go 
Put on my kit 
Radio check 
Light check
Weapons check 

I load a magazine, bolt released, bullet in the chamber 
A sound all too familiar 
For those who answer the call 

I enter the bearcat 
With the rest of the team 
Engine roars 
The beast comes to life 

The loud hum of the bearcat
Inside the belly of the beast
I sit, quiet, reserved 
I look around, the same look on us all 

A quiet intensity 
A quiet resolve
Voice in the intercom, “1 min” I take three deep breaths
Doors open 

I step into the arena

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Ayman Kafel is a former US Army combat veteran and current law enforcement officer. He is also the host of Project Sapient, a podcast dedicated to law enforcement and military issues.

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Learn more about Veterans Repertory Theater here. Listen to the Savage Wonder podcast here. See a live show at VetRep here.