Private Peaceful

The story begins with Thomas 'Tommo' Peaceful reflecting on his childhood. He fondly recalls the adventurous escapades he shared with his brothers, Charlie and Big Joe, filled with mischief and exploration.

During their childhood, the Peaceful brothers often faced the formidable 'Grandma Wolf', also known as the Wolfwoman, who added a sense of thrill and danger to their innocent adventures. Her intimidating presence served as a memorable aspect of their upbringing.

A pivotal moment in their youth occurs when Tommo and his brothers witness their first airplane. This experience leaves a lasting impression on Tommo, solidifying his love for adventure and dreams beyond their village.

As the brothers grow up, they begin to find work in their estate or village. Charlie naturally takes on the role of protector, looking out for both Tommo and Big Joe, who requires constant care due to his condition.

Tommo harbors feelings for Molly, but Charlie and Molly begin to develop a romantic relationship. This burgeoning romance creates a rift between the brothers, leaving Tommo feeling isolated and betrayed.

Molly unexpectedly becomes pregnant, which complicates her relationship with Charlie. The societal pressures lead to her rejection from home, prompting her to seek refuge with the Peaceful family.

In a desperate act driven by love, Charlie and Molly hastily marry in a village church. This sudden marriage deeply hurts Tommo, as he confronts the pain of losing his brother's closeness.

The brothers are drafted to serve in World War I, marking a significant turning point in their lives. Tommo begins to channel his emotions into writing a manuscript, detailing his struggles amid the turmoil of war.

As the war rages on, Tommo and Charlie endure the brutal realities of battle. Their bond remains strong under the stern watch of their Sergeant, 'Horrible' Hanley, who demands obedience and discipline.

Amid the chaos of retreating German forces, a pivotal moment occurs when Charlie chooses to defy Sergeant Hanley’s orders. This decision leads him to stay by Tommo's side, even as Tommo succumbs to his injuries in no-man's-land.

Following the chaos, Charlie faces dire consequences for disobeying orders. He is accused of cowardice, leading to a court-martial that endangers his life and challenges their brotherly bond.

In a grim culmination of their ordeal, Charlie faces a firing squad at dawn, leading to his tragic death. This profound loss for Tommo illustrates the harrowing truths and injustices of warfare.

As the narrative progresses towards the impending Battle of the Somme, Tommo undergoes a significant transformation. The traumatic sequence of events leaves him irrevocably changed and grappling with deep sorrow.

In a notable historical rectification, 306 British and Commonwealth soldiers, including those like Charlie, receive posthumous pardons in 2006. This act serves to acknowledge the injustices faced by those accused of cowardice during the war.