Battlefield - Chapter 1

Battlefield

Battlefield

Chapter 1: The Promise

Dear, Paul David Barring

We are pleased to inform you of your acceptance into the United States army. Service of at least 3 years is requried, your service time begins on September 7th 2011. You will be deployed to Fort Monroe in Hampton, Virginia and will train there for 6 months and then be deployed across seas for the remainder of your time.

Sincerly,

Major General Gene Braxten

I read the letter, holding back tears.

"Congratulations, I-I'm so proud of you Paul."

He hugged me tightly, as we sat down on an old park bench he looked at me, his dark chocolate brown eyes gazed into my blue-gray eyes.

" I'm finally doing my part in being an American. My dad always told me there is no strong like army strong. Some of the bravest people are those who risk their life everyday to protect their country and now, I'm one of them."

I sat there silent. What was I suppose to say, don't leave me for three years, you can bake cookies for the homeless & give blood for Red Cross like every other sane American. I couldn't. For he was brave, strong-willed & thought that risking his life on a bloody battlefield was the least he could do. His father was in the army he served 22 years. But just 6 weeks before his return, he was shot down in a fighter plane. He died immediately after impact. I was there when Paul and his mother ,Katherine, received the letter. All of the sudden, David, didn't just die, Paul did too. I guess I was afraid, afraid of the same grief, afraid of losing him. I loved him.

" Your father would be so proud of you." I said looking up at the beautiful clear blue sky.

" I know, in a way I feel like doing this will honor him. Theere will be a second Barring honoring his country. And I know my dad would have been so proud of me."

" Just Promise me something?" I said helplessly.

"Anything Gracyn." He said with a gentle sweet grin.

" Promise that when you come back we can pick up where we left. I love you Paul and I will be faithful to you for as long as you are in service. I just ask that you do the same."

" Gracyn,I love you,you know that."

"Promise me!" I said short temperedly

"Please Paul, say it. Please" I asked again, this time my voice was pitiful, helpless. I was practicly begging.

" I promise." He said.

I kissed him, and said " I promise too."