Sandstorm

Alex Miranda
English 102
Sandstorm
The Sandstorm
by Sean Huze
Sean Huze’s book “The Sandstorm” is a very emotional and sentimental piece of writing. Throughout the play, soldiers in the Iraqi war face problems ranging from losing men to dealing with the consequences from the actions that they chose or are forced to partake in. One of the most memorable parts of the play is when Sergeant Damond was assigned to be in charge of traffic stops outside of Al Kut. During his 30 hour shift, he became frustrated and exhausted due to the heat and his lack of sleep. Eventually, he lost himself as he began to kick and beat the life of an innocent Iraqi man. Although he knew that he did not have a single justifiable reason to beat the man, he explains that he did not feel bad or regretful. The war had brainwashed him and made him feel so frustrated that he no longer cared for those who were not in the same position as himself. This is very hurtful to hear that the war can completely change a person’s personality, emotions, and even morals. It is an eye opener for the American citizens that once a soldier enters war, their entire lives from that point on is changed completely and the person almost becomes brainwashed. War becomes the only thing they know. I, as an American citizen, feel more appreciative for those fighting in the Iraqi war. I believe that even though some people may not believe in war, every American citizen should 100% support those who are giving up their lives for our country.