AUTHOR'S NOTE: This and the following informational articles in the series are written from the point of view of an unnamed Trench Rat. This was done before I felt comfortable sharing this story under my regular username, and so invented a new one.
In order to understand the main goals and missions of the Trench Rats, it is necessary to be aware of the content of the Trench Rat Manifesto, written by our noble former leader, Sergeant Camo Rat. Further access into Trench Rat Headquarters will be prohibited unless the visitor reads these statements. TRENCH RAT MANIFESTO 1. Our goal is to work for the good of prisoners and refugees, at the possible cost of all else.
2. If we must fight for the freedom and safety of others, we will; if we must kill for the same reason, we shall; though we will not take death lightly. 3. It is up to us to keep in mind that violence is not our purpose; our purpose is to provide refuge for those who need it, medical attention for those who are sick or injured, and comfort for those who are in pain. 4. We must work together, as a unit, putting all differences aside, in order to provide for the common good. 5. A haven for refugees is to be established; likewise, a Headquarters for operations. 6. The residences of refugees and personnel are to be kept separate, to ensure maximum sufficiency of the unit. 7. A hospital for the sick and injured is to be established, which will be fully staffed and available for personnel and non-personnel. 8. Refuge is to be granted to all who need or ask for it, regardless of their alliance. 9. Though all are welcome, the location of Headquarters is to remain a closely guarded secret, for the good of all refugees and personnel. 10. If a Trench Rat is captured by the enemy, he is to do the following: A. Disclose his name, rank, and serial number, if so asked; B. Refuse to answer, at the possible cost of his life, any questions relating to the Headquarters' whereabouts; C. Choose to cooperate or not cooperate, physically, with the enemy, at his own discretion; D. Collect such information about the enemy as he is able, in such case that he should escape or be released; E. If possible, assist in the safe escape and relocation of other prisoners. 11. If a Trench Rat captured by the enemy is asked for medical assistance for the good of another, whether the other be likewise a prisoner or an enemy, and if the Trench Rat is able to perform the medical procedure, he is to do so. 12. A necessary function of the Trench Rats is not to make enemies, but to forge alliances whenever possible. 13. It is up to us to remember that our goal, as stated, is to secure the safety and work for the good of others, most especially those in need; otherwise stated, our goal is "HUMANITY IN THE MIDST OF ADVERSITY."
Greetings, visitor. Now that you have read our Manifesto, you are welcome to take a tour of our Headquarters and to meet the different personnel. I apologize for the incovenience in getting here, but, you see, our location must remain a secret to all who are not Trench Rats--thus the blindfold. Doing so ensures the safety of both ourselves and those for whom we provide refuge. As you are new here, you may still be wondering what exactly it is that we do around here. Well, not to fear, for I will tell you all you wish to know--within my power, that is. We do have a few secrets to maintain. ;) My name on this site is Trench Rat; however, you may refer to me from now on as your Guide. I will provide you with information on our Headquarters, our personnel, our missions, as well as any everyday information that happens to be of interest. Feel free to ask me anything you like, and if I am able (and allowed), I will answer. And now, if you'll excuse me for just a second, I have a few things to clear up with the sergeant before I can start you on your tour. *Sigh,* duty can be a real bummer sometimes, can't it. <:) END |