Anthony V. Ornelaz is a poet, U.S. Air Force veteran, and 2022 Tillman Scholar. He graduated from Sierra College with associate degrees in History, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and LGBT Studies. From there, Anthony would transfer to Amherst College, where he earned his bachelor’s in History and Sexuality, Women, and Gender Studies. He believes every poem is itself a testament to the struggle and perseverance communication requires. And his work centers on military service, America’s nuclear apparatus, and his involvement in and proximity to both.