Chapter 22: The Medal Returned
The retired general stepped forward.
In his hands...
A velvet display case.
Inside rested the bronze medal.
The same medal her father had carried.
He placed it gently into the girl's hands.
"Your father once told me..."
"...this medal never belonged to him."
"It belonged..."
"...to everyone he came home for."
The girl held it tightly.
Unable to speak.
The general turned toward the students.
"I hope..."
"...none of you ever have to earn one."
Silence filled the auditorium.
Then...
Every student slowly stood.
One by one.
They raised their hands.
Not to cheer.
But to salute.
May you like
And for the first time since her father's funeral...
The girl smiled without tears.
