THE WHOLE VILLAGE GOSSIPED ABOUT THE SOLDIER WHO CAME HOME WITH NO MEDALS AND ONLY “SCARS” ALL OVER HIS BODY

One afternoon, while Mang Kanor was once again causing a commotion at the drinking spot and bragging loudly—

BRRMMM—BRRMMM—BRRMMM!

A loud engine roared through the village. Everyone turned to look.

“What’s happening? Who’s that?” people shouted.

In the middle of the village basketball court, a black Army Jeep came to a stop.

The villagers’ eyes widened. “Oh no! Why is there a military jeep? Is there a war?!”

Soldiers in full battle gear stepped out and secured the area.

Then another man stepped out — older, but with a firm military bearing. His chest was covered with medals, and four stars shone on his shoulders.

A 4-Star General.

Silence fell over the entire village. Even Mang Kanor, who had been loud moments ago, stepped back with trembling knees.

“Who are they looking for?” the villagers whispered.

The General walked straight toward Berting’s small house.

Just then, Berting stepped outside, wearing only a sleeveless shirt, sweeping his yard.

When the General saw Berting, he stopped walking.

The villagers expected Berting to be arrested.

But the whole village was shocked when—

THE GENERAL STOOD TALL AND SALUTED BERTING.

“Sir!” the General shouted.

Berting quickly returned the salute, even though his hand was trembling. “General Valdes!”

The General lowered his hand and embraced Berting tightly. The General was crying.

“Y-You’re alive, Sgt. Berting… You’re alive…” the General said hoarsely.

The gossipers, including Mang Kanor, moved closer to watch.

“General,” asked the Barangay Captain who had just arrived, “why are you saluting that soldier? He’s a failure! He came home empty-handed! He doesn’t even have a medal!”

General Valdes turned to the crowd. His face darkened.

“No medal?” the General asked angrily. “Do you know why this man has no medal?”

He pointed at Berting.