War narrative

I raced through the alley, with a bulky equipment in arm. It was the first time going to war, the first time going on a real mission, and also the first time running such a long distance with a 7 kg rifle. Beads of perspiration trickled down my cheeks as I dashed towards the camp despite being enervated from the running such a long distance. Everything around shone in the crimson evening light, signalling that there was not much time left for me to reach the camp. I had parachute from a plane and arrived in a forest nearby. The only task for today is to reach the camp and have sufficient rest in order to carry out tomorrow’s mission.

As I rushed past the long stretch of doors, the chilling wind whipped against my face. The air seemed fresher than before and the entire village seemed to turn placid after a bustling day. Incessant chatter resounded through the air as families tucked into their dinner. There seemed to be a sense of warmth lingering around this village as the people here chatted in joy. Perhaps not. In frigid air, I was panting for breath, perspiring profusely. If not for my country calling all men to join the war, I would have been at home spending time with my family too.

As these thought passed, I neared the camp. The camp was a dilapidated biscuit factory vacated for quite a while. Paint from its façade had started peeling off, exposing a brown layer of bricks at certain parts of the building.

I called a comrade through my mobile phone to inform his that I had reached the camp. Seconds later, the rusty iron door creaked open. John stood at the door. Within a split second, I had entered the building, breathing in stale air filled with the smell of filed wood. The door closed gently.

“Come in quickly next time” John said in a low voice, “Don’t let anyone discover us”.

Letter of encouragement to Japan earthquake survivor

Sam Tan
50 Lincoln Road
Singapore 505050

22 March 2011

Dear Kumiko,

How are you? I understand that the 9.0 magnitude tsunami struck your village in Fukushima, almost everything has been

levelled and the villagers are currently staying in cramp shelters. I also understand that your daughter was swept away by

the tsunami waves and she is yet to be found.

I sympathise with you about this. However, do not be upset. Rescue workers from several countries have been scouring the

quake site these few days. These people are mostly from the Civil Defense of their repective countries and have the

experience in the field of rescuing. With their help, your wife should be found soon. I also understand that your house

and cars have been destroyed by the tsunami waves. After things have settled down, I can lend you some money to purchase a

new house. Alternatively, you can also come over to Singapore. I have two vacant room in my apartment and can let you stay

here while things are settled in Japan.

I urge you to stay optimistic during this period of time. Do take care of yourself by drinking and eating sufficiently.

Being displaced to a shelter might not be that bad after all. You can take this opportunity to interact with the people

there, something that you would not have time to do during normal days. Perhaps, you might even get to know a few new

friends.

Do lead a happy life, have enough rest and remember to look after your children. Be tough in this period of ordeal.

Cheers,
Sam