Joe Bonham, a young American soldier caught in the turmoil of World War I, wakes up in a hospital bed after a devastating artillery strike. Although he survives, he is left blind, deaf, mute, and without limbs, turning him into a captive within his own body. As his mind oscillates between stark reality and vivid memories, he recalls his life before the war — moments spent with his Christian Science family and his beloved Kareen.

In a troubling twist, Joe uncovers a connection with a compassionate young nurse who intuitively understands his suffering, even while the medical staff around him misinterpret his condition as a vegetative state. His determination to communicate grows, and he begins to tap his head against the pillow, utilizing Morse code to spell out his desperate cry for help.

When prompted about his wishes, Joe expresses a formidable desire: to be displayed in a glass coffin as a stark reminder of the horrors of war. However, when he learns that such an action violates army regulations, he pleads for an end to his suffering, yearning for euthanasia.

As reality dawns on him, Joe comes to grips with the Army’s unyielding stance — they are unlikely to fulfill either of his heart-wrenching requests, instead consigning him to an existence that feels more like living death. His empathy-driven nurse makes a heartfelt attempt to end his suffering by restricting his breathing tube, but her supervisor intervenes, preventing Joe from finding peace.

Ultimately, Joe’s fate remains tragically unchanged; he is left isolated in his hospital bed, a mere shadow of his former self, softly murmuring, > “S.O.S. Help me.” The stark contrast between his vibrant past and his grim present serves as a haunting testament to the devastating impact of war on the human spirit.