John didn't go to war to fight for his country; he didn't go to rid the world of terrorists, or even to be part of a movement for justice. These are all noble things he believed in, and they probably effected his decision. But John went because so many soldiers were boys. Just boys- the boys fresh from sixthform started as officer cadets, boys who'd dropped out to work at the corner shop as privates. That's not to say he didn't come across a few women in service, but somehow he found it easier to believe they were adults.

Mostly, they were so young they were excited to be there, glad to have a calling. John dreaded witnessing the loss of innocence in boys he'd just met. This was until he realised that when he inevitably saw the boys become men –quickly, and without hesitation- it wasn't a shame at all. It felt exclusive, like watching an egg hatch. Then John got excited. He had a calling.