It is 2004 as the men and women of the ACE platoon make their way through Kuwait on foot to a rumored oasis. After enduring setbacks and hardships through a their record length tour of duty, they are stuck in limbo waiting to return home. To pass the time and miles, everyone takes turns spinning tales of bravery and warriors. Whoever tells the best story wins a free meal. As fantastic adventures begin to unfurl, each soldier provides a compelling glimpse into their fears, daydreams, and what they have left behind to serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom. From gangsters to medieval lore to European neighbors enraged at the arrival of American neighbors, intelligence analysts Hero, Carter, Tom, Slim, and their sergeant, Ishitani, share tales that explore God and magic, morals and Twinkies, friendship and enemies, and the price of a man's passions.