Interviewed by:

Henry Gildehaus and Adam Mousseau

I don't think like, emotionally, you're ever prepared.

~ Mike Tanis (17:17)

Michael Tanis' Story:

Michael Tanis did not grow up in the best of conditions. He was a suburban boy living in New Jersey. With no clear aims or goals in life, he still wished to achieve. He saw the Military as his best path forward. Michael left New Jersey right after of high school to join the U.S Marines.

Michael served two tours, one in Iraq and the other in Afghanistan. Michael was a Lance Corporal in the ranks of the Marine Corps and part of an artillery team in his platoon. He served in various operations including Operation Iron Curtain. During these operations, Michael and his platoon were tasked with clearing villages and setting up outposts. Michael and his platoon did not see too much action but they did get their fair share. His team may not have been on the front lines, but they still did their part in supporting the military and aiding in their recovery and holding of Iraq and Afghanistan. His platoon's job left him with a lot of time to think and reflect on is duties and missions.

Throughout his duty Michael was often left wondering why they were there. He couldn't understand the overall reason for their deployment in Iraq and Afghanistan. Despite that Michael still did his job and completed his missions. In time he began to disagree with Americas decision to interfere with Iraq and Afghanistan's struggles. This lead him to later on be strongly be against America's future decisions involving war and fighting.

After returning from his tour Michael had difficulty readjusting to civilian life. Although he didn't agree with his purpose in Iraq and Afghanistan he did like not having to care about life's small problems. So he had trouble understanding and appreciating the small things in life. Michael's experiences left him slightly depressed after returning which contributed to his difficult readjustment. Although he had trouble Michael continued his education receiving an associates and bachelors degree in Environmental Sciences, and began working for the Cape Cod National Seashore.