Yusef Komunyakaa also known as Brown, James Willie; Brown, James Willie, Jr.; Brown, James William, and Jr. has become a very influential poet, teacher, and writer whose poetry has not only won many awards but has also helped to reflect the struggles of veterans, African Americans, and the human experience. Komunyakaa graduated high school in 1965 where he then entered into the army and served during the Vietnam War. During his tour in Vietnam he served as correspondent for and editor of the Southern Cross and was the recipient of the Bronze Star. After the war he returned to school earning his B.A. from the University of Colorado in 1975. He later earned his M.A from Colorado State University and an M.F.A. in creative writing at University
