While her husband Paul is away at war, Helmi dwells on her decision to come to America despite a disturbing revelation from her sister before making the life-changing voyage from Finland. To cope with his absence, Helmi immerses herself in domestic life and the memories of what brought her to Red Jacket. As she explores the unresolved tears in the fabric of her family brought on by a past confession that continues to haunt her, Helmi pushes through her emotional isolation and longing to give her children the gift of enduring hope on Armistice Day.