Producer Sara Wood follows city bus driver "Sturge" Whalen who is coping with his son ("Little Sturge") starting a 5 year stint in the Navy. As the story moves, Sturge gradually reveals more and more emotion about having to let his son go. Unlike most of the news coverage of the war which focuses on emotionless facts, offensives, and other abstractions, this kind of narrative is a compelling glimpse into the human side of war and its effect on families and friendships. Not overly sentimental, it is honest and thoughtful. Sara’s narration mixes well with the storyteller’s voice and helps move this piece along from point to point. The sounds of the bus are excellent throughout, and I like the tiny bits of silence that accent different “chapters” in the story, which give the listener a chance to reset. I really enjoyed this, and think it would make a great spot on All Things Considered.