The Red Badge of Courage

In 1862, a regiment of the Union Army, the 304th New York Infantry, is encamped near the Rappahannock River in Virginia. Orders direct the 304th to move upriver and engage a large Confederate force. Private Henry Fleming tells his comrades he is not afraid of dying. While on sentry duty, Henry exchanges words with an unseen Confederate soldier stationed across the river who tells Henry to watch out for the "red badge," meaning a battle wound. The regiment confidently sets out, but Henry becomes increasingly pensive as the hour of battle approaches. His friend, Tom Wilson, tells Henry to give his watch to his parents if he is killed. During the battle, Henry is overcome with fear and deserts. He learns his outfit won the battle, but fears derision if he returns.