Potato Peelings: Ninth in the Prairie Preacher Series

1

The sleep, if one called it that, was garbled with disjointed dreams of terror and nothingness. He dreamt vividly and in living color. Sometimes the dreams were all black. Nothing but blackness. Some of the dreams seemed so real and yet so bizarre.

In one, he and his best friend Horse were sitting on their favorite pile of junk at base camp. He could hear another buddy, Chicago trying to sing. Then he dreamt a damned snake curled around his leg cutting off his circulation. Viet Cong were laughing at him while he held that dead woman and her baby from the first tunnel he had gone down into at Cu Chi.

He dreamt of being in the jungle with guns poking out at him from every direction through the dense vegetation. Grenades going off around him with dirt and human debris flying all over him. And it was always pouring down rain.

He thought he was being smothered by the mosquitoes. He dreamt he was being sucked into mud filled with leeches. When he tried to pull himself out, Annie, his dear wife, kept pushing him back down. He hit her. He woke up and felt sick, and threw up.

When he lay back down, he dreamt he had gone down an enemy tunnel. It was tight, warm and smelled of fresh earth and chemicals. He decided to have Thanksgiving dinner there. Then the little boy that had been shot because of his dog was there but he didn’t have enough food for him. Then he was overrun with scorpions and nearly suffocated by the bats flying directly in his face. His legs were trapped and he couldn’t move. He woke up screaming and shaking!

Mr. Schroeder, a nurse was saying evenly. You are safe. You’re okay. Be calm and take a deep breath. It was a bad dream. Breathe slowly. Okay?

Andy was embarrassed, but began to realize where he was and tried to relax. He was sweating profusely and the nurse wiped his face. Those dreams are awful, but they will go away in time. Try to keep calm. You’ll be okay. You’re in Fargo now and your family will be here soon. Try to relax.

Andy smiled at the nurse, but inside he was still in panic. The dreams seemed so real and reality seemed so unreal. Would he ever get back to being the guy who had left his home to fight for his country? Could he ever relax again? It seemed impossible.

Andy waited impatiently at the VA hospital in Fargo, North Dakota for his family to arrive to take him home. He had recently returned from Vietnam where he was injured by artillery fire which took out both his knees. He now had artificial knees and was just a few weeks into his recuperation. He was told that he could continue his recovery at his home north of Bismarck, but had to return in mid-January for a follow-up appointment.

Time was crawling. He watched the window. The December wind was causing only a little ground drifting, nothing that should deter his family from picking him up. He wondered if his wife would come along with his Dad or just wait at home. She lived with his parents during his stint in the Army near Cu Chi, Vietnam, where he spent most his deployment. She worked at the Bismarck Fire Hall as a paramedic and was required to stay at the fire hall on the days that she worked. She and his cousin, Marty, were partners and worked four ten hour shifts a week. The rest of the time, they lived in Merton, a small rural town about fifty miles northeast of Bismarck.

Andy and she would both be at his parent’s home now. At least until Andy got well. He always had admired people who planned their lives out in advance. That is something that he never quite mastered. It seemed to him that life was always sending him in a totally different direction from where he was originally pointed. So, when he was wounded, he and Annie didn’t have a home of their own to go to. It was okay, really, because he couldn’t be alone right now and his family would help care for for him until he got back on his feet, literally.

The twenty-one year old planned to continue college after he graduated from Bismarck Junior College, but he wasn’t completely certain of what he wanted to do; though he was leaning toward law. He decided on the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks law program. However, he didn’t have the correct postage to send the papers in. He had to stop at the post office to mail them. He did not know what distracted him, but he finally got them mailed in a week too late.

The Army jumped on that like gangbusters. It was as if they were lying in wait for him to be too slow. He got drafted. He had no excuse and decided that was what he got for not mailing those damned papers in time. So in late 1969, he was in basic training at Fort Leonard Wood. There he was trained as a grenadier. He got his leave early in 1970, before he deployed to Vietnam.

Andy never considered getting married until that leave before he deployed. He came home after basic training and met Annie Grover. His cousin Marty asked her to come out and watch over Andy’s aging grandfathers during a family wedding. Annie was a young widow whose husband had been killed in Vietnam a couple years before. Since she had little to do on her time off and rarely went out, she told Marty, her paramedic partner, she’d be glad to watch the Grandpas.

The second Andy saw her, he was totally captivated. He was so enthralled with this dark haired beauty that he was unable to even utter a sentence. He just stood there like a big dope. His brothers and sister zeroed in on that and taunted him mercilessly. Before the weekend was over, they had asked Annie to go to a dance with him. He was mortified, but all the same, very pleased they got to be together.

They were rarely apart the rest of the time he was on leave, all two weeks. He asked her to marry him before he left but she said no. She didn’t feel they knew each other very well and mostly, she wasn’t about to become a war widow again.

She stayed at his family’s home except when she was at work. She and Andy corresponded as much as possible. Before long, they were both convinced that their love was real and not some flashing romance. When he asked her to marry him while he was on R&R, she said yes. They were married in Hawaii in August of 1970. They had a double wedding with Andy’s best friend Darrell and his girlfriend, Jeannie. It was a wonderful time. Then Andy had to go back to finish his deployment.

In early December, Andy and two of his buddies were taken down by enemy fire. Andy ended up in the hospital in North Dakota. His friend Leon Washington, whom they called Chicago, was in Japan in the hospital waiting to get well enough to be sent back to Chicago where his wife was waiting.

‘Horse’, Jackson Fielding, ended up in the Black Hills Medical Center in Fort Meade, South Dakota. He had substantial injuries to his right heel and ankle. Andy, whom the guys called Spud, and Horse were the best of friends. Horse was Lakota Sioux from the Pine Ridge Reservation. Their mutual love of the prairies, rural life and mechanics cemented the bond between the two men.

Horse didn’t know what he would do with his life after he left Vietnam. There wasn’t much to look forward to on the Reservation. He had considered re-enlisting, but of course, that wouldn’t happen now. There was still the fear that he might lose his foot. He was in a quandary.

Chicago was about as different from the other two as night and day. He was from the inner city in Chicago, always lived in the city and didn’t like mechanics or farms. He was the third of their Three Musketeers. He spent most of his time trying to educate the others on the virtue of city life. He was a young black man, one of four brothers, in a military family. All of his brothers, except the youngest who was still a teenager, had made the military their career. The injuries Chicago had sustained from first falling into a Pungy pit and then taking the artillery fire ended his thoughts of a military career. Not that his wife Sonny cared. She was glad he could come home and not have to worry about going back over there.

Andy stared out the ice-glazed window to the frosty snowy world. It was so different from where he had been just a few weeks ago. There it was muggy, warm and rainy. Vietnam was green with thick vegetation, except where it had been sprayed with defoliant. Here, it was well below zero and stark white. Nothing was growing and the only green was on the Christmas decorations.

He would make it home by Christmas. Today was December fifteenth. He knew his whole family would be there for the holiday. They got together every excuse they could find, and Christmas was a definite. He was anxious to see everyone.

He wondered what was taking his family so long. It was almost eleven o’clock. They had to drive from Merton to Fargo, at least a five hour drive, but he had hoped they would leave before daybreak to pick him up.

He was packed and ready to go since nine o’clock. He put his head back on his pillow to try to rest. He was so anxious he could hardly relax. He knew he would be tired before he got home.

There was a knock at the door and Andy almost jumped out of bed. Come in.

The door opened and there was his stepdad and Pastor Byron. Byron was his Dad’s best friend and their minister, but to Andy and his siblings, he was Uncle Byron. They had lived almost next door and considered themselves family.

His stepdad was Elton Schroeder. He had married Andy’s mom about fifteen years earlier. Andy’s Mom, Nora, had taken responsibility for her two younger brothers, Keith and Kevin, when their parents died. Then she married Andy’s father. They had him and his little sister Victoria, whom everyone called Pepper. They lived in northern Minnesota.

Andy was four when their father was killed in a mining accident on the Masabi Iron Range. His Mom’s aunt wanted her to move to North Dakota to be near family since she was a widow with four children. That was where they met Elton.

Later that year, Pepper and his Mom were mauled by a sow landing them both in the hospital in critical condition. Everyone was afraid the children would be separated if Nora died, so Elton and Nora married quickly and signed the adoption papers right then. That way, the children would have a family and some security no matter what happened.

Keith, Kevin, Andy and Pepper became Elton’s children and they loved each other. Even when they got into trouble, the kids never thought they were anything but lucky to have Elton for their dad. As for Elton, he was proud of his family. They meant more to him than anything, except maybe Grandpa Lloyd. Elton’s real family had been very troubled and he grew up basically on his own. Then he met Byron and they became friends. Byron was a novice Lutheran minister and Katherine Engelmann was the church secretary. She had been there for over forty years and knew the church inside and out. She and her husband Lloyd took Byron and Elton under their wing. Lloyd and she became Elton’s surrogate parents, and thus, the kids’ grandparents. Byron’s real parents became their family too. The group was closer than many blood relatives. They called themselves the Engelmann clan, because Grandpa Lloyd always called them his ‘relatives’.

After Lloyd’s Alzheimer’s progressed to the point that Katherine couldn’t handle him at home, Elton moved them back into the old farmhouse with them. That was Andy’s family. Crazy mob that it was, but he loved it and he was very glad to get back home to it.

Byron gave Andy a hug and welcomed him home. I’m so glad to see you. Sorry it’s under these circumstances, but I’m still glad you’re home.

Dad was standing behind him, Annie isn’t with. She and Marty changed shifts with another team. Then they can be off for six days in a row. She hopes you understand.

Andy nodded, It’s probably just as well. I get tuckered out easy and I need to get adjusted at home.

Preacher Man came with me today. He’s hiding out so he doesn’t have to help decorate the trees outside the church, his Dad poked Byron.

Byron frowned at him, Not exactly true. but whoever heard of decorating a windrow? The wind will just blow the lights away and we’ll have to pick them up all over the countryside.

Andy grinned, Sounds like Dad’s right, Uncle Byron. Little grumpy there, are you?

Yah, I guess. I decided that since Pastor Marvin thought it was a good idea, he should get to put them up. Only fair, right? the minister smiled.

Whatever you say. I’m ready to go.

I see that, his Dad said, We stopped at the desk and they said you’ve been pacing the floor for hours.

That’s a bit of an exaggeration, but close. Andy got quiet, You know, I’d like to eat some real food. This stuff is okay, but they lost their saltshaker or something. I hope you guys haven’t eaten?

Byron smiled and rubbed his belly, Just left the table full of steak and baked potatoes.

Andy’s face fell in horror, You mean, I was sitting here waiting for you guys and you were out stuff your bel—,

Then he noticed their smirking faces. He shook his head, Suddenly it’s coming back to me what you’re really like! You guys have to be friends because no one else can tolerate you!

Byron grinned, Your reaction made the whole trip worth while. I guess you have to wait until they bring some papers for you to sign and then we can leave. Since I upset you so, I’ll spring for dinner. Okay? Forgive me?

Andy pursed his lips and squinted, Only if you throw in dessert.

An hour later, they were sitting in a booth at a truck stop in West Fargo. They had just ordered and Andy was already tired out. He used his walker from the front of the café to the booth.

You okay, Kid? Byron asked. You look a little peaked?

I’m so tired. I guess I paced too much this morning, huh? I’ll be okay though. I’m so hungry.

I brought the station wagon for just this reason. Before we leave, I’ll fold down the seat and you can stretch out in the back. I put some blankets back there, so it should be okay, his Dad explained. Might be a bit bumpy.

That’s great, Dad. After getting jostled all over creation coming home from that hospital ship, it’ll be like heaven. Man, I don’t know about that pain stuff they gave me on the way home, but I was hallucinating and everything. Doc says I’m allergic to it.

I hope you know what it is and have some other stuff to take, Byron said.

Yah, I do. I have some of these white things. They just make me sleep like a rock. I’ll probably be snoring all the way home, Andy smiled. Home. This sounds so weird to say, but you know something? I kind of miss my hooch and my rack.

Why wouldn’t you? That was your home for quite a while. It only makes sense, Byron said. Hey, I got a letter from Horse. He got to South Dakota the end of last week. He said they’re thinking they have to remove his foot due to the infection in his right ankle. He seems like a great guy. I’m glad I got to know him.

He is a good guy. He was my best friend over there, then Andy started to tear up. He quickly wiped his eyes. What the hell is the matter with me?

Overly-tired, his Dad answered.

Dad, everyone knows you’re the sentimental cry baby! Andy teased. How many tissues did you go through at Kevin’s wedding?

Never you mind, Hot Shot! Getting him married off was a great relief! the man laughed. Just think, you’ll get to be at Pepper’s wedding.

Now, I’ll cry at that! Andy laughed, For my friend Chris. His poor life will never be the same married to my hot-headed little sister.

The salad came and the men said grace. Then they started to eat. They ate in silence for a bit and then Andy asked, So how many people live at our house now?

His Dad smiled, Well, not many. You and Annie of course, Grandma and Grandpa. Mom and me. Diane Waggoner is staying too. She is a teacher in Merton. Keith and Darlene are still there with baby Nathan, but they will be moving to Bismarck soon. Their house should be done in a few weeks.

Did they build?

Yah, they got a big house with a small apartment over the double garage. They are going to lease that to Zach so he can stay there when he is on call, Byron answered.

So, Zach is married to cousin Suzy right? And they live to the east of us? Then where does this Kincaid and his wife live? Andy asked.

To the north, almost right across the road from us, Dad replied. And Ian and Ruthie live across the road from Danny and Jenny.

Yea gads, Andy groaned, I won’t know anybody.

Byron laughed, Yes you will. There are only a few new ones.

Andy put his salad to the side as the waitress brought his roast beef, mashed potatoes and green beans. He tasted it and smiled, Now that’s good. Real good.

The waitress smiled, Thank you, I’ll let the cook know.

After she left, Andy grinned, I wonder if he’d think it was a compliment if he knew what I was comparing it to?

His Dad looked at him closely, Do I see a scar on your ear?

Andy flushed with embarrassment, Ah yah. I sort of had a run in with a North Vietnamese soldier.

I’m glad you’re okay. Dad said quietly, and then changed the subject.

The men visited about the neighborhood gossip and the upcoming plans for the holidays. Then Elton noticed the weather, You know guys, it’s starting to flurry. We’d better get back on the road. Are you ready for some cake or pie, Andy?

No. I don’t think I could even eat it. My poor stomach shrunk in the hospital. I’ll take a rain check.

You got it, Byron said. Why don’t you guys get the back of the car ready while I take care of the bill?

It took a bit of doing for Andy to maneuver into the back of the station wagon since he was unable to bend either leg, but he was relieved when he got all stretched out. It felt pretty good. He was asleep before they had traveled twenty miles.

2

It was six-thirty when the car pulled into the old farmyard. The well-kept two-story clapboard-sided home was neat and sat nearest the road, while the shop, barn and out buildings sat further back. The entire farm well kept. The house was painted white with green trim. It sat on a large lawn area nestled inside the windrow of trees and lilac bushes. The barn and other outbuildings were red with white trim.

It was already dark and Andy knew the others would be doing the chores. He had to scoot himself out of the back to get to the ground, but he was very glad that he’d been able to get some sleep.

He had thought about coming home so many times while he was in Vietnam. In his imagination, he would walk through the door, pick up his little Grandma and swing her around like he always did. He never imagined he’d be leaning on a walker with two bum legs.

The men walked with Andy to the back door. There was a ramp up to it, and Andy asked, Is that the ramp that Darrell and Kevin built for Kincaid?

Yah, while he was in the wheelchair, Dad said. Pretty nice, huh? Never knew it’d get so much use. But I guess it is a good thing to have, huh?

I have hell of a time with the steps. Then Andy turned to his Dad with tears in his eyes, Dad, I hate this. I feel like a useless cripple.

His Dad put his arms around his son, Look Andy, no one is given a promise that things will be super. The longer we live, the more damage we do to ourselves. You’ll get better. Keep strong, guy. We’re all here for you.

Uncle Byron patted his back, I don’t want to be the one that tells little Ginger her hero is a blubber baby.

Andy shook his head, I know. She went through so much. I’m anxious to see her. She’s doing good, huh?

Her eyes are almost all healed up, but she has to wear glasses. She was huffy about it until Marly and I agreed she could have purple frames! Byron laughed. Why she wanted them I’ll never know, but now she is cool with wearing them.

Andy stood as straight and tall as possible and took a deep breath. Let’s get this show on the road. Why am I so nervous?

His Dad laughed, You’re probably afraid they ate all your supper!

Andy grinned, And I really have to go to the bathroom.

They went up the ramp and into the large mudroom. Mom opened the door and helped them into the kitchen. She gave Andy a hug and helped him with his jacket. Tiny Grandma Katherine came over and put her arms around him. Welcome home, Andy. I missed you so much.

I just happened to be thinking about peach kuchen! Can you believe that?

Grandma’s blue eyes twinkled, Hmm. Just might. I happen to have four of them over there. Grandpa did his best to eat one of them, but I rescued these four.

Thanks, Andy grinned. Where is Grandpa?

He’s taking a nap before dinner. We’ll get him up soon. Do you need to change or anything before dinner? Mom asked.

No. I can only wear these sweat pants or shorts. Anything else rubs on my knees and I can’t stand it. My knees are still pretty swollen. They look like two tree stumps. I do have to go to the bathroom. Andy replied.

A bit later, he came over to the kitchen table and sat down. Man, I’m so tired. I do one thing and I’ve had it.

It’ll take a while to get your muster back, Grandma smiled. I get to use you for my kitchen helper for a while. I’ll whip you into shape.

Andy shook his head and chuckled, I bet you will.

I felt bad when Coot moved to his own home. I lost my kitchen aid. Grandma giggled.

Coot? Now who is that? Andy asked.

That’s Carl Kincaid. Everyone calls him Coot. He was in a wheelchair for most of the summer and Grandma had him at her mercy, Dad answered as he came back in the kitchen. You ladies got any coffee?

Mom handed him a cup, Did you get his things put away?

We put them in his room. We’ll have to sort it out later. Dad answered as he poured a cup for Byron.

I really should head home. The kids will be dying to find out about their Andy, Byron said as he took a cup. Oh well. One cup can’t hurt.

When will I get to see the kids? Andy asked. Tonight?

We thought tomorrow. We figured you might want to keep it pretty low key tonight. The doctors said you have to take it easy. That was a condition of you getting home. We had to promise. The kids will be by after school tomorrow afternoon. You know, Charlie is Uncle Elton’s Chicken Man, so he has to feed and gather the eggs, Byron answered. I think that Marly will be over in the morning though. She won’t be able to stand it otherwise.

I’m anxious to see her too, Andy smiled weakly. He was so worn out that he almost felt sick. What time did I take that last pill?

About an hour ago, Dad answered, Are you having pain?

No. I just feel so tired. It makes me real tired.

The phone rang and his Mom answered. Oh hi, Marly. They just got here. Sure, you can talk to him. Mom handed the phone to Andy.

Hi Aunt Marly, Andy smiled, How are you?

I’m good and so happy you’re home! The kids don’t know you are back yet so I’m calling from the backroom otherwise they’d all want to see you right now. I just wanted to let you know that we got a letter today from Sonny, Chicago’s wife. She wrote to thank Charlie for the new tape he sent. She said that she got to talk to Chicago and he’s going to be sent home this coming week. He’s doing pretty well since they removed that one damaged lobe of his lung. I thought you’d want to know.

Andy eyes reddened up again and he could hardly talk, Thanks for letting me know. Horse and I messed up his lung you know. We probably tore it when we pulled him out of that Pungy pit. We really messed him up. Now he’ll have to live with that the rest of his life.

Andy, he is alive. If you hadn’t pulled him out, he wouldn’t be, you hear? Marly said emphatically.

Andy listened a minute. You have your Mom tone on.

Maybe so, Marly giggled, So just mind what I say. Really Andy, welcome home.

Thanks Aunt Marly and thanks for telling me.

After he hung up, his Mom asked, Was that about Chicago?

Yah, and then Andy relayed the news to the family.

What is a Pungy pit? Grandma asked.

Everyone looked at each other and then Andy explained. It is a pit dug anywhere from three to six feet deep. The top is camouflaged; but there are very sharp spikes poking up from the bottom. Like a tiger cage. Anyone or anything that falls into it is impaled. The enemy used them a lot. We were being overrun and had to pull back. It was raining hard and everything was confusion. Chicago was running and just dropped out of sight. He fell into one. Thank God it wasn’t a deep one and he landed on his side. Horse and I pulled him out but we tore him apart doing it. Now he lost part of his lung.

Byron put his hand on Andy’s shoulder, He’ll recover. You guys saved his life.

You know, Uncle Byron, Andy looked down, tears brimming in his eyes, We really thought about if we should leave him. He was yelling ‘just end it and get out’. We looked at each other and thought about it. Can you imagine, we actually had to think about it? What the hell kind of people are we?

Come with me, Andy, Byron said. Let me show you your room.

Andy kind of frowned but got up and shuffled along with him. When they got to the living room, Andy noticed the huge dining room. Wow! he exclaimed. Pepper wrote about this, but I couldn’t imagine it. I love the fireplace!

Andy looked at the huge dining room that the family had built on where the screened-in porch used to be. It had large windows to the west on either side of the massive fireplace. The dining room held five oak tables that seated twelve at each with room for more.

It has been wonderful. Your Dad doesn’t have to carry the folding tables up and down to the basement every Sunday for clan dinners. The women got together and bought enough sets of dishes so all the plates match and everything. It’s very nice, Byron explained.

Then they went in the hall off the living room. This is the addition part. Your parent’s room and Engelmann’s room is about in the same place as it used to be. On this side of the stairs, is the room that you and Annie will have. This other one is the guest room.

Annie and I will be down here? Andy was surprised. He had somehow assumed he would have his old room upstairs back. Guess that makes sense, huh? I can’t handle stairs.

Yah, and this room has wide door and a bathroom that is wheelchair accessible.

Dammit! I don’t need a wheelchair! Andy was adamant and indignant.

I know, Byron was undaunted, But you’ll have the walker for while. Let’s you and I sit. I want to have a bit of a talk. Okay?

Andy sat down, but pulled back. I don’t think I’m going to like this.

Byron grinned, Probably not. Pep always says that I’m the Uncle that doesn’t bring candy. I know that this is hard for you. Believe me, I do. I also know that it’ll take a while for you to get things sorted out. For now, can you just take it easy? Don’t fight your condition and appreciate that your body has been through a lot. So has your mind! You need to get as much rest as you can and let others help you. Okay? Try not to beat yourself up about things. You and Horse did the best you could for Chicago. You need not second guess yourselves at all. Okay?

Andy didn’t move and sat staring at the floor.

Byron looked at his young friend, Do you hear me?

Andy shook his head and then grabbed on to Byron for dear life. I hear you. I just don’t know if I can do it. I can’t stand feeling like this.

It will get better, really. Right now, you’re worn out. Maybe I can come over tomorrow morning and we can talk more. Would that be good? We can chat and eat kuchen. How does that sound?

Andy looked toward the kitchen, If they knew what kind of person I really was, they’d hate me.

I don’t believe that for a minute. Andy, I know many people that have major surgery and they all feel a bit like this. Your body is recuperating from a massive assault. You have a lot to deal with. Don’t demand too much of yourself yet.

Andy raised his eyebrows, Yet?

Byron laughed, You caught that huh? Yah, I’m going easy on you now. Today, I’ll give you candy. Tomorrow, I start ragging on you. Don’t tell Pepper that you got any candy though.

I promise, Andy nodded. Could you wait ’til I wash the tears off my face and then go walk back out there with me?

Sure.

Andy and Byron returned the kitchen in a couple minutes. Mom and Grandma were taking dinner out of the oven and Dad was carving the ham.

What are we having? Andy asked.

Ham, scalloped potatoes, baked yams and green bean casserole, Mom smiled. Does that catch your fancy?

It sure does.

Well, guys, Byron said as he put his cup in the sink, If I don’t leave now, you’ll have to feed me and then Marly will be crabby.

Can’t have that, Dad smiled, Thanks for riding with me today.

Any time, then Byron stopped, Oh heck, I forgot to ask Marly if they got done hanging those Christmas lights.

3

Byron had just left when the family returned from the barn and doing chores. The first one through the door was Andy’s little sister Pepper.

She threw her arms around him, Kartoffel Noggin! My favorite Potato Head. I’m so glad you can go to my wedding.

So am I. Do you have any idea all the trouble you caused me with that Kartoffel Noggin business?

Pepper giggled, Yes I do. You grumped about it often enough! That’s why I do it! Just because I call you potato head, didn’t mean your buddies had to call you Spud. That is, unless they figured you were a Spud.

Andy shook his head, You haven’t improved at all, have you?

Nope, did you think I would? She ran off to the mudroom. Andy, you’d better be nice to me because I’m doing your physical therapy tomorrow!

Dad, make her stop! Andy whined.

A tall gangly fellow came up and shook his hand, Welcome back, Andy, Chris said. It’s good to see you again.

Are you really going to marry her? I cut my mission short just to come home and talk you out of it, Andy teased as they embraced.

Nice of you, but I think I’m stuck. Have you ever seen her get mad? The med student asked.

Yah, sadly, I have. She always was a spoiled brat, Andy grinned watching her expression and waiting for a reaction.

Just as she opened her mouth, Kevin came up. Stifle it, Hot Pepper. We all know it’s true! Especially us boys, right Andy? How’s my baby brother?

Andy tried to stand up to give him a hug, but Kev just bent down. Stay put and save your energy. You’ll need it when you clean out shop tomorrow. I’ve been saving it for you.

Andy smiled and Kevin patted his back. Welcome back, Andy. I’m glad you’re home again. I have to dash. Carrie is waiting dinner and she’s so pregnant now. I have to keep an eye on her.

I can’t believe you’re going to be a daddy, Andy grinned. Crazy old Kevin.

Watch it, or the gloves will come off. Hey Man, I even teach Sunday School now! Can you believe that? Why I’m almost respectable!

Andy teased, No, I can honestly say that I can’t. I imagine they must be desperate for teachers, huh?

Something like that. Well, I really have to go. We can catch up later, okay? Welcome home.

Thanks Kevin. I’m really proud of you.

For what?

Teaching Sunday School.

Wait ’til you see the drop-out rate! Kevin laughed and told his Mom, Keith took off. He said they are eating over at Olson’s and then they’ll be home. Bye you guys. See you in the morning.

Tall, frail Grandpa Lloyd came into the kitchen, Are we going to eat, or not? I’m hungry. If I don’t get supper I’m going to eat kuchen.

Not if I have anything to say about it, Andy laughed. Dad is cutting the ham.

He doesn’t know how to cut meat, Keith, the elderly man who suffered from Alzheimer’s said to Andy.

I’m Andy, Grandpa. Andy asked expectantly. Remember me?

Like hell you say. Andy is in Iwo Jima. Heard he got shot all to hell. You’re Keith. Right, Elton?

Lloyd, look again. It’s Andy! He came home. He’s here. Elton said.

Lloyd looked him up and down. Well, you sure got your legs all messed up, I’ll give you that. You know, young fella, if you wore Carhartts, your legs wouldn’t get so cold. Andy would know better.

Andy nodded, You’re right, Grandpa. I should do that. I have to wear these today because my other pants don’t fit.

Too fat? You should lay off the kuchen then. I’ll eat it for you, the old man replied. Are you staying for supper with us?

I believe so, Andy replied.

I’ll keep an eye on you young fella so you don’t eat too much.

Thanks Grandpa.

After grace, the family began to eat. Grandpa Lloyd kept his word and monitored everything on Andy’s plate. Andy was glad that he filled up fast and didn’t have room for kuchen right then, because he was sure Lloyd wouldn’t let him have it. He grinned at Grandma and she whispered, After he goes to bed.

Andy nodded and Lloyd saw it. Well, if that don’t beat all! Elton, This fella is flirting with my Katherine.

No, he isn’t, Lloyd. He’s married.

Lloyd frowned, Where’s his wife?

She’s at work, Grandpa. Annie is at work, Andy replied.

She’s married to you too? Lloyd gave Andy a puzzled look, Elton, you better talk to her. She can’t have two husbands. She’s married to Andy and she should remember that.

I’ll remind her, Lloyd, Elton assured him.

Lloyd smiled, Glad I got that fixed. This family is pretty darned wobbly if you don’t stay on top of it.

The dinner was nice and Andy felt much better after he ate. After dinner, Chris gave Lloyd his bath and then helped him get to bed.

He is a lot more mixed up than he was, huh? Andy asked his Dad.

Yah, his good days are further and further apart, but he’s still our Lloyd. He tries to take care of all of us.

Andy knew that his Dad would never allow Lloyd to be put in a nursing home as long as he could help it. He had put alarms on all the doors of the house, so that Lloyd couldn’t wander off at night. His Dad also got up with him night after night, to visit with him when he got agitated and wandered around the house. Even though he had messed up the pantry and dismantled everything from a radio to a toaster.

While they were visiting, there was a knock at the door and it opened. There was a tall young man with Andy’s cousin, Suzy. Suzy ran over and gave him a hug. Welcome back, kiddo. We’re only going to stop by a minute, but I had to tell you hello.

Andy hugged her, I’m glad you did. Hello Zach! Good to see you again. I hear we’re neighbors now!

The young pediatrician smiled, Boy, you really changed my life when you invited me out to dinner that night you were sitting at the hospital.

I’ll never forget how scared Darrell and I were that you were coming up to kick us out of Ginger’s hospital room! We thought we were in big trouble.

Why did you think that? Mom asked.

Because Ginger had a bad spell with her hands, when they were restrained because of her burns. Andy and Darrell thought I was going to blame them for getting her upset. Truth was, I just wanted someone to talk to, Zach answered. Hey, did you ever get anything to kill those mosquitoes?

Andy smiled, No, they’re doing fine! In fact, I had my own little cloud of them. I imagine they are looking for me now.

Well, we can visit more later, Suzy said, We just wanted to say hi. Hey Andy, if you need anything, Zach isn’t going to be on call until next weekend. So give us a call. He can be right over with a shot or something.

Nice, Sue. Nice to know you have my back. Andy replied, I sure hope it isn’t what they gave me when I left the Philippines. I hallucinated and everything. It was horrible.

What was it? Zach asked.

Some Demerol derivative. I got this other stuff now. It just makes me sleep.

Sleeping is good. You look pretty worn out tonight. I imagine this has been a long day for you.

Yah, but I’m glad to be home.

After Grandpa went to bed, Chris and Pepper left for his parent’s place. Mom made some more coffee and served Andy some kuchen. While he and his Dad were eating their pastry, Keith and Darlene came in with their new baby.

Andy hugged his oldest brother and Darlene gave him a big kiss on the cheek. Wanna meet your nephew?

Andy nodded, You better hold him though because my lap is no good and neither is my right arm.

Sure, Darlene held their little son down to meet his uncle. He was a cute little guy with lots of dark hair and flashing brown eyes. He is really a good-looking boy. What is it that you call him?

Nate, Darlene said. We named him Nathan Frederick.

Well, at least it isn’t Spud, Andy groaned. Then he tickled the small baby on the cheek, He looks like a fine Nate. I think he’ll be a dignitary or something. Nathan Frederick Schroeder. Sounds good.

Well, little Nate is hungry now, so I’m going to get him ready for bed. Tell your uncle good night. Darlene said and then she took her little boy into the other room.

Fine looking son you have there, Andy grinned to his oldest brother. Hear you are moving into a new house soon, huh? I had to get back so Dad would still have one of us at home!

Dad looked up from his kuchen, Mighty thoughtful of you. Hey, Keith, want some kuchen?

Really can’t. Mrs. Olson had some Chocolate Volcano cake or something like that. Man, was it good. I ate half of it. Between Dick and I, we almost cleaned it up.

Volcano cake?

Yah, it was chocolate cake with this hot pudding stuff in the middle and covered with hot fudge. It was so good. Keith rubbed his belly. How’s it going, Andy?

Okay, so far. I’m a little shaky around the edges and I have to walk with this walker. The corpsman on the ship called it my Erector Set.

Both his brother and dad chuckled. Then Andy sat back in the chair, I think I need to take one of my pills and hit the sack. Has it been four hours since I took my pill?

Yah, Starting to hurt? Dad asked.

Quite a bit, Andy nodded.

Here, let me get you some water, Dad said and Keith helped his brother stand up.

Hey, buddy, Keith said, You’re quite shaky. You shouldn’t have waited so long before you went to bed. Let me help you.

Andy snapped, I’m not a baby, you moron!

I know you aren’t; babies aren’t so crabby. You’re too tired. I’ll help you get to your room, Keith said without a flinch.

I’ll bring his walker and the water, Dad said.

The two men helped him get ready for bed, much to his dismay. It didn’t seem to bother them, but it did Andy. He in no way wanted someone to help him go to the bathroom, brush his teeth, get undressed and into bed. He wanted nothing more than to have his brothers and father think of him as a responsible adult. Instead, they were helping him to bed like a toddler.

The men set up the continuous motion machines on his bed and plugged them in. Then they strapped his legs into them. Keith commented, Looks like some miserable contraptions you have there.

They are. Andy took his brother’s hand, Keith, I’m sorry I snapped at you.

No problem. We’re cool. Okay?

Okay, Andy said and started to tear up. I don’t know what gets into me.

No worries, man. Keith hugged him, I have to hit the sack myself. Good night.

Good night, Andy said and then covered his face.

His Dad put his arms around him, Take it easy, Andy. You don’t have to prove anything to us. We’re your family and we love you. Okay?

Dad, this isn’t the way I wanted it to be. I wanted to come home like a man, not an invalid.

Yah well, best laid plans of mice and men, Elton rubbed his son’s shoulder. You just get some sleep and we can talk then. I’m just down the hall. Need anything, I can be right here."

Thanks.

"All set up? Got everything you need?’ Dad asked.

I think so.

Do you leave those machines on all night?

I might take them off when I wake up later. When did you say Annie would be home?

Tomorrow night about one in the morning. Do you want me to stay with you a while?

No Dad, Andy wiped his tears, I’ll be fine. Quit worrying.

His Mom came in to tell him goodnight and said, Some of how you feel is from the medication. I remember when I had the run in with the pig, I cried for no reason. I just felt like someone had let my blood out.

Exactly! Andy was pleased that his Mom knew what he felt like. I love you guys. Dinner was great.

Good night, my boy, Dad turned out the light.

4

Andy woke about two-thirty in the morning in pain. He checked the time and took his pill. Then he removed the machines from his legs. He tried to get back to sleep, but was uncomfortable and extremely restless. He finally got up and took his walker to the living room.

He ended up in the recliner and fell asleep there wrapped in Dad’s favorite afghan. When his family woke in the morning to Pepper’s alarm, they found him there.

Even though they tried to be quiet, he woke up as they came through the living room. Mom smiled Restless last night?

I just needed to be in a different position for a while. This chair felt pretty good. I get tired of sleeping on my back with my legs going.

I can see that. Do you want to get up, sleep more or try your bed again? We’ll try to be quiet.

Just then Kevin came in the kitchen door, Good morning, he greeted everyone. Why so glum today?

Andy looked at his Mom with a grin, Looks like I’ll get up and have coffee before Kevin comes in to jar me out of my stupor.

The words had no more than left his lips when Kevin bouncing in, Need some help there, Sunshine? I only sleep in the recliner when I’m in hot water with the missus. What’s your excuse?

Andy grinned, My body was tired of laying flat.

The recliner sure won’t let you do that. Want me to bring you some coffee or help you come out to join us? Kevin was the self-appointed Morning Person of the family.

I was thinking I’d wander back into my room and close the door on you, Andy groaned. Are you always so happy in the morning? I’m surprised someone hasn’t clobbered you yet!

You know it, Bro, Kevin said as he helped his brother get on his feet and moved the walker to him. Want some help?

Want it, no. Will I accept it? I suppose I have to, Andy said pointedly.

Kevin helped Andy into his bedroom and then asked more seriously, You okay? What can I do for you?

I need my pain pills. They’re over on the counter in the bathroom. I suppose I should get dressed and get out to the kitchen, Andy sat on the edge of his bed.

Kevin brought the pills and a glass of water. He sat down next to him, Andy, if you don’t feel like it, you don’t have to. I’m just bugging you.

Andy looked at him and smiled weakly, I know. I’m miserable.

Kev sat there a minute and then said, Always have been to my notion. You want some help getting dressed, or do you want to go back to bed?

I don’t want to be in bed anymore. I hate it. I don’t want to have those damned things on my legs. I want to get up and walk like normal. I even wouldn’t mind cleaning barn.

Wow! You are bad off! Kevin smiled. Here, let me help you get into your spiffy sweats and out to the kitchen. I’m sure that Grandma will have some work for you. That will take you mind off the ‘I wants’.

Huh?

I’m warning you. You’re going to have company today, so you better look good. And you might want to develop a better attitude. Otherwise, I’ll go out there and tell them you’re quarantined.

You’re such a jerk, Andy glared at his brother.

I know. So, what about I help you wash up and get shaved? You even grew a little peach fuzz there. You look like a bum.

Don’t you have to help milk?

Nah, they won’t miss me. You know, sometimes I think they don’t like me.

Really? Andy shook his head, What a shock.

Kevin went out and told the family that he was going to help Andy get dressed and that he would catch up with them. Then he went back into his room where he found his brother sitting on a chair near the bathroom door with tears rolling down his cheeks.

What is it, Andy? Want me to get Dad or somebody? Kevin was more concerned than Andy had ever seen him.

Shit Kev, I think I’m losing my mind. I can’t stop crying. I don’t want to be here. I should be back with my unit. I was needed there. Here I’m just a burden. I’m so tired I can’t even leave. I’m worthless.

Kevin pulled up another chair, Almost everyone feels that way when they leave their unit in the service. You know that the war is still going on. It was the same for Keith and me, and other guys that I have talked to. But Andy, this isn’t your choice. Did you resent it when the other guys left?

Well, of course not.

Would you be of any help at all to them in your condition?

Andy frowned, Don’t be stupid.

So, what are you thinking?

You just don’t understand.

Yah, I do. You can go back as soon as that Horse guy and Chicago go back. Okay?

You know they can’t.

Yah. What does that tell you?

Huh?

Kevin looked him straight in the eye, Listen, you guys have a different mission now. Your duty right now is to heal up! You have to face the bullshit of being helpless and starting over with baby steps. So, don’t be a shirker. You don’t like this mission because it isn’t macho, Kevin stated. Just do your duty soldier, without complaint!

Andy studied his face. I suppose you’re right, but why am I so damned depressed?

Kevin grinned, Ah, you thought you were Tarzan of the Jungle and found out you’re not. You’re just another plain old person. Get used to it.

Andy sat a minute and then nodded, I’ll try.

Looks like that’s the best I can get out of you, so it’ll have to do. You know, maybe if you can be cheerful, you should call that Horse. I bet he is as grim as you.

Doubt it. Do you think Horse would like me to call?

Don’t know. Depends on how well he really knows you. If you think he’s your friend that would be the proper thing to do. You need to get your head out of from where the sun don’t shine and be a little bit nicer. Besides, your lady is coming home tonight and I expect you to live up to the Schroeder tradition.

What tradition is that?