Everyone needs a nemesis

So there I was pulling security with another soldier, minding my own business, when someone decided that they’d like to send a bullet or two our way. This was the second time I have been shot at while occupying this particular area. I think I need to find a new hang out spot. I guess one man’s observation position is another man’s shooting gallery. While in Iraq I have heard gun fire countless times. After a while you hear the telltale “Pop” and hardly feel inclined to turn your head. But it’s a much different story when the rounds are coming at you. There is a very obvious difference in the sound of just another stray round and one that was meant specifically for you. Stated simply, it’s a difference between a “pop” and a “wiz”. A bullet flying anywhere near your head makes a high pitched screaming sound that lets you know right away that it’s time to lay low. I mean literally low; like on your belly with your face in the dirt. On this particular occasion I was able to get my head below a four inch high concrete wall (more of a curb really). I would have preferred a bit more cover but sometimes you just have to take what you can get, and I was more than pleased to have even that between my noggin and the shooter. Unfortunately, as is frequently the case, I was unable to locate the SOB through my scope. Bad guys don’t make a habit of shooting at you from a wide open field with bull’s-eyes painted on their chests. Since this was not the first time that someone from that area has taken a potshot at me, I have decided (with my wild imagination) that it’s the same guy. I have finally found a nemesis. All good action stars and super heroes have them, so I figured I might like to have one too. Every time we drive past that village I shake my fist at it, imagining that he’s out there somewhere, watching and waiting. We have established a not-so-friendly game of tag. I realize that this cat and mouse relationship is a figment of my imagination. I’m sure that it was just one random encounter among many. But everyone needs a nemesis from time to time.