The Last Deployment
by Bronson Lemer
"How a Gay, Hammer-Swinging Twentysomething Survived a Year in Iraq"
Popularity
4.12 / 5
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The Last Deployment by Bronson Lemer
Details
War:
Iraq War
Perspective:
Engineers
Military Unit:
US Army
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
Yes
Region:
Middle East
Page Count:
236
Published Date:
2011
ISBN13:
9780299282134
Description
Main Themes and Topics
"The Last Deployment" by Bronson Lemer delves into the personal and societal challenges faced by gay servicemen and women in the military. The book addresses the dichotomy of military life and personal identity, particularly focusing on the impact of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. Lemer's narrative centers around the internal conflict of concealing one’s sexuality while serving in a hyper-masculine environment. Themes of self-acceptance, camaraderie, and personal resilience are woven throughout his experiences during his deployment in Iraq.
Writing Style and Tone
Bronson Lemer employs an engaging and candid writing style, mixing humor with poignant moments to illustrate the absurdities and realities of military life. His narrative is rich with vivid anecdotes that highlight both the mundane and extraordinary aspects of a soldier's day-to-day experiences in a war zone. The tone oscillates between reflective and witty, offering readers insights into Lemer’s inner thoughts and emotions as he navigates the challenges of war and self-identity.
Awards and Recognition
"The Last Deployment" has been recognized for its significant contribution to literature on LGBTQ+ issues and military life. It was an InSight Out Book Club selection and Bronson Lemer was named one of Instinct magazine’s "Leading Men of 2011." Furthermore, the book was a finalist for the Minnesota Book Awards and the Over the Rainbow Selection by the American Library Association. It was also listed in Amazon's Top Ten Gay & Lesbian Books of 2011, underscoring its impact and relevance.
Brief Summary
Set against the backdrop of the Iraq War in 2003, "The Last Deployment" chronicles Bronson Lemer's yearlong tour of duty as part of a North Dakota National Guard unit. As Lemer grapples with leaving his civilian life, he confronts the intricate challenges of serving as a gay man in the U.S. military. He shares his reflections on the influence of his father's silent strength and the lessons drawn from it, which fortify him during his service. Throughout his deployment, Lemer’s narrative illuminates both the camaraderie among soldiers and the personal struggles he faces, providing a unique perspective on military brotherhood and self-acceptance.
