A Soldier’s Crisis

A story about why a soldier stays away from his most favorite place.

Willy and Tom were two corporals assigned to deliver a message to the 2nd Unit of the British Army.

On their journey, they got caught in a trap set by the enemies in a bunker. A nasty rat crossed the tripwire triggering the blast inside the bunker, burying Willy. With great effort Tom was able to pull Willy out, saving his life.

Willy had received a medal for his bravery in the past but never talked about it

Resuming the journey Willy mocked Tom convincing him that he had his medal sorted. Tom gave a confused look.

“Lance Corporal Tom showed unusual valor rescuing a comrade from certain death”. Willy announced.

That’d be nice since you lost yours. Tom chuckled.

I did not lose mine. I swapped it with a French capital for a bottle of wine. Willy corrected

Why would you do that?

Because I was thirsty and I could use it.

What a waste! Tom grumbled while slicing the vegetation around to clear the path.

You should’ve taken it home. You should’ve given it to your family. They’d be proud. Men’ve died for that! If I got a medal, I’d take it home. Why didn’t you just take it home? He kept on protesting

Look it’s just a bit of bloody tin. It doesn’t make you special. Willy was furious.

Yes, it does. And it’s not just a bit of tin, it has a nice ribbon on it. Tom replied sarcastically

Willy turned around with an intense face. I hated going home. I hated it……. Willy continued. When I could not stay and they might never see me.

Willy gasped to settle his heavy voice. Tom gave a sympathetic pat on Willy back and both continued their journey

A small narration from Sam Mendes’ brilliance