Full Measures

On December 19, Ember’s 20th birthday, her seven-year-old brother, Gus, wakes her. Two Army officers are at the front door, and their mother, June, realizing what this means, is unable to answer. Ember lets them in, and they formally notify the family of her father’s death. June enters a state of shock, and Ember’s younger sister, April, grieves openly. Soon after, the Casualty Assistance Officer, Captain Adam Wilson, arrives to help with arrangements. Ember takes charge, using a black binder her father left for them, in case his death ever happened. She then explains to Gus that their father isn’t coming home. When Gus asks about her birthday cake, Ember, overwhelmed, goes to a grocery store to buy a cake. After an emotional outburst, she realizes that she forgot her wallet. A former classmate, Josh Walker, pays for her items, but Ember declines his offer for a ride, determined to remain strong.

One week later, the Howard family attends the funeral at a military chapel and cemetery. Ember’s paternal grandmother, Grams, offers stoic support alongside Ember’s friend Sam. Ember notices Mrs. Rose, a widow whose husband was killed in the same attack. Riley, Ember’s boyfriend of three years, arrives late and acts distant.