Kai Herrmann

In preparing for this project, I grappled most on how best to approach it. My intention was to shift focus away from me and instead shed light on the bond formed with my fellow soldiers, who became akin to family during our deployment to Iraq in 2003. Before heading out, I was on the brink of completing my bachelor's degree in education with a minor in history, a subject I hold dear due to its profound impact on shaping our world. From witnessing historic milestones like the fall of the Berlin Wall to the fall of Baghdad, each moment has left a profound mark on me and has deepened my world perspective. I was keenly aware that this deployment would not merely be an observation of history, but a direct participation in it. In the absence of cell phones, I brought with me many disposable cameras to capture our journey. Selecting images for this project was a challenging task; each frame had to narrate a chapter of our story faithfully. When it came time to record my presentation, authenticity was my most important goal. I did not want to present a rehearsed script, as I feared it would negatively affect the natural flow of my emotions and memories for each picture. This was a singular opportunity, and I dove in headfirst, navigating the challenge was very difficult for me. Though the final product may not be flawless, it is from my heart, and it is my best effort to honor those who sacrificed everything. Yet there remains a painful reminder of lives lost encapsulated in several undeveloped roles of film. For nearly two decades I have struggled with the decision to develop them. Knowing they contained the final images of some loved one’s son, daughter, husband, or wife, who never returned. The thought of their smiling faces, unaware that this would be their last day on earth, is a burden I cannot bear. Perhaps one day, I will find the strength to confront those images honoring the memory of those who gave it their all.