The young soldier’s wife broke down on seeing her husband with an amputated leg. He had suffered frostbite while serving in the Siachen Glacier at temperatures well below zero. Touching metal with bare hands could cause bites. Six of them would share a tiny igloo made of fiber at night, to keep themselves warm.
Her husband was nominated for a bravery award. He had shot down two terrorists, despite his frozen foot. It hurt to know that the terrorists were dressed in four-layered jackets and Swiss mountaineering boots. The army could not provide its soldiers attire of matching quality.
(99 words)
Flash Fiction Challenge at Carrot Ranch
You captured the pain of a horrible truth about war. Well done. ❤
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Thank you so much!
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This was a very difficult flash to read because it’s so true. Politicians love war but don’t care too much about outfitting and protecting the young men and women they send off to fight those wars. As optimistic as I try to be, I’m not sure that’ll ever change.
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Reality often hurts. Hence, the media keeps selling fluff.
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Such a powerful flash fiction, Reena. Giving the narration from the perspective of the wife makes it all the more poignant.
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Thanks, Charli!
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So true, politicians from across parties sing paeans to the soldiers for votes, but sell them out at the first instance.
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Unfortunately yes. I have heard of bullet proof jackets which allow bullets to pass.
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What a sad and tragic story. You told a lot in just 99 words.
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Thanks, Norah!
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You packed a lot into this one Reena.
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A nation should take care of its soldiers. Thanks for appreciating the spirit!
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