Broken Promises

The quote “War is hell” is all too surreal for a family of four. Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Sanders, a decorated war hero, has made a promise; and he never breaks a promise. One final mission is all he asks, and then he will retire from the Army after decades of faithful service to his country. Yet, when tragedy strikes, that decision is no longer under his control. Being in charge of the mission carries with it an enormous responsibility toward his men and the duty placed upon them. But often things go awry, and suddenly this particular mission is in jeopardy. Many a soldier falls under the powerful force of a more formidable opponent. Often we never hear of the heroic acts of valor in the final minutes of their lives, yet for one lone soldier that’s exactly the way he wanted it. Riddled with bullets and shrapnel from exploding mortars, the mangled body of a man stands like a giant oak tree, sending a message to the enemy. He will avenge his fallen comrades! Minutes later the soul driven from within the body of mangled flesh and bone exemplifies an extraordinary act of courage. As darkness is broken by the early morning sun, yielding the stench of smoke and gunpowder, the terrified inhabitants come from hiding to examine the aftermath of the destructive encounter deemed necessary for the sake of freedom. The battle is over; but for one lone survivor, it’s only the beginning of Broken Promises!