Survival is a major theme. Characters in military short stories are constantly in situations where their survival is at stake, and they have to use their wits and skills. Additionally, the psychological impact of war is a theme. This can include post - traumatic stress disorder, as well as the moral and ethical dilemmas soldiers face. For instance, in 'The Sniper', the protagonist has to deal with the psychological burden of killing his own brother without realizing it at first.
One common theme is the exploration of the morality of war. For example, in many stories, the use of advanced weapons and the impact on civilian populations are examined. Another theme is the relationship between technology and the military. This can include how new technologies change the nature of combat.
A major theme is the morality of war. In military sci - fi short stories, the lines between right and wrong can be blurred. For instance, when dealing with new forms of warfare like cyberattacks or biological weapons. Another theme is the transformation of the individual. Soldiers often change as a result of their experiences in war, whether it's becoming more hardened or more empathetic. And the theme of sacrifice is also prevalent, as characters may give up their lives or freedom for a greater cause.
One common theme is heroism. Stories often focus on pilots who perform brave acts, like flying dangerous missions to save comrades or protect important targets.
Faith and courage are common themes. The characters often rely on their Christian faith to find the courage to face the horrors of war. Another theme is redemption. Soldiers might seek redemption for their actions in combat through their faith.
One common theme is war and combat. This can range from large - scale interstellar battles to guerrilla warfare on alien planets. Another theme is military technology, like super - advanced weapons and armored suits. Also, the idea of loyalty within military units and the struggle for power between different military factions often shows up.
Another theme is the impact of war on individuals and society. In realistic military fiction, we often see how war changes the lives of soldiers, their families, and the communities they come from. It can show the psychological trauma, as well as the physical destruction. For instance, a soldier may return from war with PTSD and struggle to reintegrate into civilian life, which has a ripple effect on those around him. War can also transform a society, causing economic and political upheaval.
One common theme is loss. The loss of lives, the loss of a sense of safety, and the loss of a pre - 9/11 world. People in these stories often struggle to come to terms with the sudden and violent nature of the losses they've experienced.
One common theme is the struggle for equality. Female characters often have to fight not only the external enemies but also the gender bias within the military. For example, they might face discrimination when it comes to promotions or being given important missions.
One common theme is the strategic use of the river. In military terms, rivers can be barriers, supply routes, or places for ambushes. For example, in a fictional war on an alien planet with a large river system, armies might fight over control of bridges across the river. Another theme is the ecological impact. Military operations near rivers can disrupt the local ecology, which can then have unforeseen consequences, like mutated species emerging in the river due to pollution from military tech.
One common theme is combat. Whether it's against aliens or other humans in a future setting. Another theme is loyalty, like the loyalty of soldiers to their comrades and their cause. Also, there's often the theme of technological advancement, as military in these stories usually have advanced weapons and equipment.