When the episode begins, Dr. Bashir is in a runabout doing whatever when they learn that the truce between the Klingons and Federation has broken down. As a result, a colony has been attacked and there are casualties. While Dr. Bashir would love to go help, he's hesitant because Jake, a non-com, is with him. However, Jake insists that they go--after all, he understands the risk and he's over 18. Plus, there is a part of Jake that wants to experience life since he has visions of being a brilliant writer. Instead of an exciting adventure, however, Jake finds that war sucks and makes you want to wet your pants!
This is a decent episode--not great, but decent. But it also made me think of a few things. First, Dr. Bashir is the only doctor anywhere near the colony? That seems very odd. Second, what Jake learns is amazingly obvious--especially if he'd read "The Red Badge of Courage". Decent but that's all.