Auld Lang Syne

The make shape ball for New Year fell down the mess hall of the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital. Make-shape confetti and noise makers were blown as the music of "Auld Lang Syne" played. Choir full of people drunkenly sang along to the tune nowhere near getting the lyrics right. No one noticed as no one knows the lyrics to the song. Champagne bottles (gratefully contributed to the camp by local residences) popped and glasses were filled.

The year promises new hope for all, as the members set up their own little resolutions. Losing a little weight, saving more lives…etc. They couldn't dream bigger as the Korea War restricted what they could of could not do. They hoped for peace and of course they hoped to go home.

Wishing and wanting to go home could not be made into a resolution, but they can make their voices heard for it. Petitions, mini-rallies (uniform and regulated by the watchful eyes of Colonel Potter and even Margaret Houlihan), letters, anything the unit could get away with, they would find a way to do it. That thought does not cross their minds at the moment, their minds rather laid upon the celebration of making it another year. Later on, their minds would mourn for those who would not make it. Later, their minds would find a way to get out.

Laughter filled the air as did the cheering and music. Escapes from the real world just for a little while. Which is the best gift they could ever ask for. A little break is a perfect way to look at the New Year. No wounded, no bombs, no raids, no snipers, just plain enjoyment. If anyone is not able to accomplish their other resolutions, they could at least say that they were able to have this. For this is the best new year they all can have.

Later on, their minds would go back to routine, just as the sun rises and the wounded come in. But not now. And the members of the prestige 4077th would not have it any other way. With that happy thought a chorus begins:

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And auld lang syne!

To anyone's ears they would be a horrible sound to hear. Tonight, though it was as if they sang in perfect harmony.