In his, Joseph Plumb Martin gives an account of his experiences as soldier during the Revolutionary war. Martin was raised on a farm by his grandparents who doted on him. He had farm responsibilities, and after he completed these duties, his grandfather gave him pocket money and permission to go out fishing or any other adventures of his choice. Martin had a burning desire to join the army, which he postponed many times because of his grandparents’ reservations. He eventually enlisted in the army and was stationed in Stone Street and later New York (Martin, 1830, p.17).
Although Martin was excited about finally becoming a soldier, the realities of this obligation quickly dawned on him when he encountered soldiers killed in the field. Additionally, food and water were limited, but the soldiers could not complain of such adversities to their superior because they willingly joined the army (Martin, 183, p.19). Although the threat of death was ever-present, Martin remained sure of his decision to enlist.
As I was reading the first few chapters of the book, I was surprised by Martin’s unwavering desire to join the army. His life at the farm with his grandparents was peaceful. His grandparents loved him dearly and sought to protect him from the war that was just starting. In contrast, Martin willfully put himself in harm’s way by joining the army. His life changed completely when he made this transition. He was no longer guaranteed comfort, security, or even food. I found it interesting that he would be willing to give up his comfortable life for that of a soldier. It is a testament to his courage, a quality he strived to possess. I admired his determination in pursuing his dreams with or without permission from his caretakers. The story of Joseph Plumb Martin is one of courage and resilience in the face of adversity.
Reference
Martin, J. P. (1830). A narrative of some of the adventures, dangers, and sufferings of a revolutionary soldier. Glazier, Masters & Company.