World War II was one of the most momentous and defining periods in the history of the United States and the world. All Americans, regardless of status, were deeply affected by the war, and each individual played his or her part in America's effort to secure victory and extricate the world from the grip of fascist rule. Charles 'Ray' Woodworth and Amaryllis Rogers were two ordinary Americans caught up in the maelstrom of the war, and this true story chronicles their experiences, typical of millions of Americans, as the world becomes engulfed in a bloody war. Ray and Ami meet as the world spins into conflict, and after the sneak attack on Pearl Harbor, Ray enlists in the Army Air Corps. He is shipped out to England as part of a B-17 crew, and his plane is shot down on his 23rd mission. He spends two years as a POW, primarily in Stalag Luft III, until liberated by Patton's army at war's end. Ami does her part to support the war effort on the home front, volunteering in various ways to help the men in uniform while waiting for Ray's prayed for safe return.