Some human experiences that one has in France stand out like the
silhouettes of mountain peaks against a crimson sunset. I have tried
in this book to set down some of those experiences. I have had but one
object in so doing, and that object has been to give the father and
mother, the brother and sister, the wife and child and friend of the
boys "Over There" an accurate heart-picture. I have not attempted the
too great task of showing the soul of the soldier, although I have
tried to picture him at some of his great moments when he forgets
himself and rises to glorious heights, just as he might do at home if
the opportunity called.
I have tried to show his experiences on the transports, when he lands
in France, his welcome there, the reactions of the trench life;
something of his self-sacrifice, his willingness to serve even unto the
end; his courage, his sunshine. I have also given some other pictures
of France that aim to show his heart-relations to his allies and to the
folks at home.
If I have done this, sufficient shall be my reward.