Inshallah

Authors

Phillip TrezzaFollow

Document Type

2001-2020 Army

Date

2025

Date of Submission

December 2025

Keywords

Mighty Pen Project, Veteran, Army

Abstract

Set during a deployment in Iraq, Inshallah follows a U.S. Army medic reflecting on the chaos, camaraderie, and moral ambiguity of war. As his platoon conducts a routine patrol, they encounter violence, uncertainty, and a wounded enemy combatant whose life hangs in the medic’s hands. Through moments of tension, dark humor, and introspection, the story explores the psychological toll of combat and the fragile line between duty and humanity. Ultimately, the medic chooses compassion over vengeance, leaving the outcome to fate—Inshallah, if God wills it.

Articles, stories, and other compositions in this archive were written by participants in the Mighty Pen Project. The program, developed by author David L. Robbins, and in partnership with Virginia Commonwealth University and the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond, Virginia, offers veterans and their family members a customized twelve-week writing class, free of charge. The program encourages, supports, and assists participants in sharing their stories and experiences of military experience so both writer and audience may benefit.

Author Biography

Phil Trezza served medic in the Army and Army Reserve between 2004 and 2018, serving as a platoon medic in Iraq in 2006 and 2007. Phil earned several awards during his career including the Combat Medical Badge for rendering medical care during enemy engagements.

After military service, Phil served Veterans and military families in Virginia by assisting them with gaining employment after service. Phil was instrumental in creating the Military Medics and Corpsmen Program, which focused on employment and education opportunities for medically trained transitioning service members and also served as the Director of Veteran Transition & Employment Programs for the Virginia Department of Veterans Services. He has also contributed to the book, "The Fire Within: Shedding Light on Trauma".

He continues to support Veteran and military spouse hiring within Virginia state government as a Talent Acquisition Consultant at the Virginia Department of Taxation. Phil holds a bachelor's degree in political science and a master of business administration. He loves all things creative, reading, writing, writing and playing music, and spending time with family and friends.

Rights

© The Author(s)

Is Part Of

Mighty Pen Project