It is 2011 and Lt. James Atkinson is being deployed from the United Kingdom to Afghanistan; his first deployment. Leaving his sweetheart, Aileen, his mother, father and two sisters behind, James begins his life-changing venture with the support of those who love him. His journey introduces an array of military personnel, all collectively fighting as one in their united struggle for security and freedom from terrorism. The day-to-day stresses of war soon stretch the seams of their bonds with their loved ones and expose the heartbreaking realities of conflict and the overwhelming obstacles to be surmounted on the way. Though war casts its giant shadow from the war zone to the hearts of loved ones left behind, the light of love, loyalty, faith and hope is never extinguished. Inspired all his life by nature and the universe, James's confidant throughout his trials is a maple tree. The tree proves to be a guiding presence, surviving the storms of life by being deeply rooted while sheltering the life around her, all the while exemplifying strength and beauty. Though thousands of miles away from home, James's admiration for her comforts him in the harsher terrain of the East while the very same stars overhead assure him of God's eternal presence. With great personal contribution from real-life soldiers, orthopedists, parents, wives and loved ones, The Golden Autumn portrays their universal tale of sacrifice, adversity and triumph.