This story was inspired by an actual event that occurred during Basic Training at No. 60 CIBTC in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, during World War II. Kiss Me Through the Fence The Canadian Infantry Training Base was a place of discipline, and rules, but love had found its way to the edges of the camp. Davie had been given a note that told him to meet Annie at the camp fence. That night Annie stood on one side of a chain-link fence and Davie, a soldier with a heart as uncertain as the war itself, stood on the other. “Davie,” Annie’s voice trembled, “I enjoyed myself last night. We’ve had so many good times together. I think I’m in love for the first time in my life … and it’s such a wonderful feeling!” Davie shifted his weight, “Love is pretty serious,” he replied, his eyes darting around to ensure no prying eyes were about. “Kiss me…through the fence?” Annie whispered. Davie hesitated and then slowly he leaned in, their lips touching briefly. “One more?” Annie’s plea hung in the air. They kissed again. But reality tugged at Davie’s conscience. “If we get caught,” he murmured, “I’ll be confined for months.” “Just one more then?” Annie’s eyes pleaded. Davie nodded, his heart pounding. One last kiss. Their lips met once more, and then Annie turned to leave. Davie watched her go and then he turned to return to his barracks. A voice shattered the stillness of the night. “Did you leave the camp?” It was his buddy, Edward walking toward him with a scowl. “I’m not crazy!” Davie protested, relived it was not an officer. But Edward’s eyes narrowed. “We’re confined for ten days because of the measles. Where have you been?” Davie’s mind raced. “Annie arranged a meeting. She’s in love,” he blurted out. “Couldn’t live without me. I met her at the fence. She wanted a kiss.” Edward’s disbelief was obvious. “Through the fence?” Davie nodded. “Yeah, and one kiss wasn’t enough. She kept wanting one more!” “Buddy,” Edward shook his head, “you’re full of it.” But Davie now confident. “I swear it’s the truth,” he said. “I’m just…irresistible.” And so, in the quiet of that night, a kiss through the fence, became a memory, and a story retold many times.