Title: “The Fight”
Artist: Lisa Rotarius “GEEK”
Size: 8x10in
Medium: Sharpie permanent marker on paper

Artist Statement: I was in 10th grade when 9/11 happened. I remember being on the fence about joining the military once I graduated, but the seconds after all the aftermath my decision was solidified. There was no doubt in my mind what I wanted to do, and just 3 months after graduating high school, I was in basic training.

My father felt the same way when he was my age, except when he graduated, it was during the Vietnam conflict. He volunteered instead of waiting to be drafted because well, he felt it was his place to. In 1974, he returned home, but unfortunately, as is the case with most (if not all ) combat veterans, the fight continued.

“The Fight” was drawn for my father and his struggles after coming back from Vietnam.