Chris's Responsibility

During his speech to Annie, Chris remembers the responsibility that he and his troops had for one another on the battlefield, and recognizes the stark difference between war and home life. Chris describes to Annie the joy he found in the simplicity of war life- the idea that all soldiers look out for one another and unite under a common goal. He remembers the sense of importance and meaning given to life while in the army, and misses it. Chris tells Annie that people take things for granted back at home by opening the bank books, driving the new car, and seeing the new refrigerator. Chris displays a strong sense of maturity here, and the audience realizes that Chris appreciates not only the his money, and car, but appreciates life itself. By acknowledging the faults of the people around him and refusing to take things for granted, Chris takes responsibility for others around him and for human life in general.