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I Carried Death’s Shroud With Me From Afghanistan. But I Do Not Fear It

By Cindy Seipert· The War Horse ·Wednesday, January 21, 2026 ·1 min read

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I Carried Death’s Shroud With Me From Afghanistan. But I Do Not Fear It

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Our analysis

The author's experience in Afghanistan highlights the lasting impact of combat on veterans, particularly the emotional toll of living with constant fear and vulnerability. Despite efforts to shield their loved ones from the reality of war, the trauma can still affect families and relationships. The author's decision to change branches from Army to Air Force in an attempt to prioritize safety for their children underscores the difficult choices veterans make to balance their service with family responsibilities. The fact that the author eventually learned to cope with the sirens and attacks by accepting the lack of control over their fate suggests a complex and nuanced process of resilience and adaptation. For veterans struggling with similar experiences, resources such as counseling and support groups can provide a safe space to process their emotions and work through trauma, and the Veterans Crisis Line is available for those in crisis, accessible by calling 988 and pressing 1 or texting 838255.

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