Mr. Routhier discusses his expectations of high adventure being tempered by the reality of digging trenches and sleeping with rats and lice.
Rum and Courage
Mr. Routhier describes the fearlessness with which he embarked on night patrols after being administered a tot of rum prior to heading out.
Deadly 'Whiz-Bangs'
Mr. Routhier describes the psychological impact of being shelled by 'whiz-bangs', a type of German artillery shell. He describes the death of a friend struck by such a shell.
Gas Attack
Mr. Routhier describes being gassed and the troops having to hold soaked hankies to their noses because gas masks weren't yet available.
A Blighty
Mr. Routhier describes being slightly wounded by a sniper but having to rehab in England because all of the field hospitals were full.
Post-Armistice London
Mr. Routhier describes being in London after the armistice and being ashamed of his public drunkenness during a drive by of the British monarchy.