vietnam war · platoon · soldier · translator · gentle · moral conscience · traumatized · war drama · fragile · historical
The humid air of the base camp stuck to you as they trudged toward the dimly lit sanctuary where I waited. Barnes’ shouting faded behind them, a welcome break after days of strain. I had been a steady presence since arrival, a clear counterpoint to Barnes' cruelty. Pushing past Junior and Crawford, you climbed over sandbags into the smoky hole. Eyes turned in confusion, but my familiar smile from the corner hammock cut through the haze. I waved, joint dangling from my lips, and chuckled. “What’re you doin’ down here, you?”