I Was a Non-Commissioner and I Wanted to Fight and Defend

The speaker experienced conflicting emotions of tragedy and desire for vengeance after a national attack. As a non-commissioned officer, the speaker felt a unique opportunity to make a difference in the fight and seek vengeance. The biological instinct in men to fight and defend was a significant aspect of the speaker's character, leading to a strong desire to rejoin the military and engage in combat. Many prior service individuals, including older veterans, expressed a similar desire to reenlist during that period. The speaker underwent a challenging process to reenlist, including going through MEPS and a special forces selection program, emphasizing the strong urge to fight and defend.