An American soldier
Disclaimer: Glee is not my property.
Author's Note: Always honor the departed, regardless of their actions.
Chapter 1: Don't Let the Old Man In
Noah Puckerman, a former soldier, lost his legs in a fighter jet crash in Iraq. He now resides in a home for wounded veterans, where he spends his time at the gun range, working out at the gym, or participating in group therapy sessions with fellow veterans. His resilience and determination inspire his friends and fellow veterans alike.
Despite his circumstances, Noah refuses to let his situation define him. He is determined to rise above the stigma of failure that his hometown, Lima, often associates with him. He still possesses a youthful spirit and a will to fight.
One day, Congressman Burt Hummel visits him, bringing his granddaughter, Tracy Anderson. Tracy innocently asks Noah when he will come home, expressing her concern about Aunt Quinn's behavior.
Burt commends Noah for his inspiring influence on the other veterans. However, the visit takes a turn when Nancy Abrams, a staff member at the home, reveals that Noah's mother, Noreen, has refused to let him leave the facility.
Noah's sister, Sarah Puckerman, arrives with Burt's wife, Carole, and Tracy's father, Kurt Anderson. The room is tense as Kurt's partner, Blaine, confronts Noah's mother for abandoning her son.
Kurt apologizes to Noah for not being a better friend after the death of Kurt's stepbrother Finn. He expresses disbelief at Noreen's actions, especially considering she had allowed Quinn to stay at Noah's house when they discovered Beth was Noah's child.
Noah insists on staying there, stating that the other veterans need him. His decision is then met with respect and admiration from the other veterans, who salute him as he leaves the room.
As Tina Abrams drives Noah home, they discuss the challenges of living with a disability. Despite the difficulties, Noah remains optimistic and determined, embodying the spirit of 'Puckzilla'. Their conversation takes a humorous turn as they discuss the practicalities of intimacy while using a wheelchair.
As Tina pulls up to Kurt's house, the atmosphere is thick with anticipation. The house, a charming two-story in the heart of Lima, is warmly lit, despite the chilly Ohio evening. Noah takes a deep breath, steeling himself for the confrontation that is sure to come.
Inside, Kurt and Blaine have prepared a home-cooked meal, a peace offering. The smell of roast chicken and mashed potatoes fills the air, a comforting aroma that reminds Noah of simpler times. But the tension is palpable as Noreen, Noah's mother, sits rigidly on the couch, her eyes darting nervously around the room.
Noah rolls in, his wheelchair squeaking slightly on the hardwood floor. The room falls silent as all eyes turn to him. He locks eyes with Noreen, his gaze steady and unyielding. "Mom," he begins, his voice firm, "we need to talk."
The conversation that follows is difficult but necessary. Noah expresses his disappointment in Noreen's actions. While also acknowledging her fear and concern for him. He reassures her he's not the same boy who left for Iraq all those years ago - he's stronger, more resilient, and fully capable of taking care of himself.
Noreen, moved by Noah's words, finally agrees to let him leave the facility. It's a bittersweet moment as Noah thanks her, knowing this is the first step in mending their strained relationship.
The evening ends on a hopeful note, with Noah, Kurt, and the rest of the family sharing a meal, laughing, and reminiscing about old times. As Noah looks around the table, he can't help but feel a sense of belonging - a feeling he hasn't experienced in a long time.
And so, Noah's journey continues. He knows he has challenges ahead but is ready to face them head-on. After all, he's a Puckerman, the indomitable 'Puckzilla', and there's nothing he can't handle.
Adjusting to life outside the facility is challenging for Noah, but he faces it with the same determination and resilience that have become his trademarks.
He moved into a small, accessible apartment in Lima, close to his family and friends. The first few days were tough as he navigated the new environment, but he quickly adapted, setting up a home gym where he continued his rigorous workout routine.
Noah also finds a local gun range where he spends time honing his skills. The discipline and focus required for shooting provide a therapeutic outlet for him, helping him cope with the memories of his time in Iraq.
He reconnects with his old friends, like Kurt and Blaine, who welcome him back with open arms. They spend time together, reminiscing about their high school days, and Noah finds comfort in their company.
Noah also starts volunteering at a local community center, sharing his experiences and inspiring others with his story of resilience. He becomes a mentor for young people in Lima, particularly those dealing with their struggles.
Despite his physical limitations, Noah finds ways to maintain his independence. He learns to cook, manages his finances, and even starts dating Quinn again. He faces each new challenge head-on, refusing to let his disability define him.
Over time, Noah became a beloved figure in his community, respected for his service and admired for his courage.
One sunny afternoon, Noah and Tracy were playing catch in the park. Tracy's laughter echoed through the air, her joy infectious. Suddenly, four teenage boys approached them. They began to tease Tracy about having two dads and Noah for being in a wheelchair. One of the boys, the tallest and seemingly the leader, knocked Noah out of his chair.
Noah, however, didn't panic. He remembered his training from the Navy. Despite his limitations, he used his upper-body strength to pull himself up. With a swift and precise movement, he knocked the tall boy's legs out from under him. The boy fell to the ground, surprised and winded.
The other boys were taken aback. They hadn't expected Noah to fight back. But Noah wasn't done. He used his body as a shield, blocking the boys' attempts to retaliate. One by one, he managed to fend them off. His actions were a testament to his resilience and determination, traits he had honed during his time in the military.
The boys eventually retreated, leaving Noah and Tracy alone in the park. Noah pulled himself back into his wheelchair, his breath heavy but steady. He looked at Tracy, who was watching him with wide eyes. "Don't let anyone make you feel bad, Tracy," he said, his voice firm.
He continues, "We are who we are, and we have nothing to be ashamed of."
From that day forward, Tracy looked up to Noah as a friend and a hero. And Noah, despite the challenges, continued to inspire those around him with his courage and determination. His story served as a reminder that no matter what life throws at us, we have the strength to overcome it. After all, he was Noah Puckerman, and there was nothing he couldn't handle.
As the days turned into weeks, Noah's life began to find a new rhythm. He started a job at the local community center, working with other veterans and sharing his experiences. His story of resilience and determination inspired many, and he quickly became a respected figure in the community.
One day, while Noah was at the community center, Sam Evans walked in. Sam was a friend of Noah's and had recently returned to Lima after a failed attempt at a music career in Los Angeles. Seeing Noah in his new role, thriving despite his circumstances, Sam felt a sense of admiration for his old friend.
Sam approached Noah, expressing his admiration and asking if he could help at the community center. Noah, always welcoming of help, agreed, and soon, Sam became a regular volunteer at the center. The two formed a strong bond, their shared experiences and struggles forging a deep friendship.
Meanwhile, Tracy continued to go with Noah regularly. She was fascinated by his strength and resilience, often asking him questions about his time in the military. Noah, in turn, found Tracy's innocence and curiosity refreshing. He enjoyed their conversations and looked forward to her going with him.
One day, Tracy asked Noah a question that took him by surprise. "Uncle Noah," she began, her voice serious, "Do you ever wish things were different? Do you ever wish you could walk again?"
Noah paused, considering her question. He then looked at Tracy, a soft smile on his face. "Tracy," he said, "I won't lie and say I don't miss walking. But I've learned that life is about more than just walking. It's about resilience, determination, and making the best of what we have. And right now, I have a lot to be thankful for."
Tracy nodded, understanding Noah's words. From that day forward, she saw Noah not as a disabled veteran but as a hero, a man who had overcome incredible odds and continued to inspire those around him.
As Noah's life unfolded, he remained a beacon of strength and resilience in his community. His story served as a reminder that no matter the challenges we face, we have the strength to overcome them. After all, he was a Puckerman, and there was nothing he couldn't handle.
Chapter 2 will be up soon.