One Degree Of Separation

Mum read an article in the local paper about a dear fellow who was present at the Normandy Landings. It was an interesting and revelatory piece, as these things tend to be, so she kept it for the Old Boy to read.

Most disturbing and breathtaking was the part of the soldiers story of a corn field he came across further inland that held the horrific sight of many many dead soldiers; of all involved nations.

"Did you read the paper I saved for you, dad?"

"I did."
"...I know that field he talks about...
...bloody terrible, that...."

(lengthy pause)

"I often think of that field. The stench..."

Turns out my grandfather took the same route as the other soldier. Only five or six days later.

He's never told anyone in the family of this; it's always been the funny stuff.
And who could blame him.