e. When I showed up wearing hoop earrings and my naivety, the military officers frowned. But dealing with hardened military personnel was not the only battle. Coping with daily attacks, the loss of friends, and less-than-ideal living conditions forced me to learn how to use my wit, determination, and perseverance to sur-vive. Every day in Iraq was both exciting and exhausting, and every day brought a new life lesson. Whether it was learning how to be resourceful or realizing that no matter how bad things get, you shouldn't give up. This book captures life lessons from a war zone and how you can use them in your life to make it through your own battles.