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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. The base for the division is based in which town/city?

2. By chance the soldiers learn that there are numerous _____ in the area.

3. An American is wounded in which area of his body?

4. Because the enemy knows the standard operation plan of the American troops, they often execute which technique to fight off the soldiers?

5. What is the definition of "dink?"

Short Essay Questions

1. What type of personnel make up the platoon? What is the common bond between all of the men?

2. What is the biggest problem with this plan?

3. Downs comes to what realization during this time?

4. Describe the area around the base camp and how it is different than Downs expected.

5. How does Downs deal with one of the soldiers that has proven to be lazy?

6. Explain the arrival and presence of Fouel. What is the opinion of the Americans on the Cho-Hui?

7. Describe the scene when Lt. Frederick Downs arrives at the airfield for the first time.

8. What is the issue with convoys traveling by the established road? What were the orders issued to the men?

9. Discuss Downs' first mission and the sights he witnesses.

10. When is the platoon moved from the area? Where are they taken to set up a new base camp?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss in details Downs' experience in the Veterans Administration. How did Downs become involved with the VA? What type of work did Downs do? How long was Downs affiliated with the VA? What prompted Downs to take the promotion? What was the new job? What did it entail? How was the job directly related to Downs' own experience? Why did Downs travel back to Vietnam during this time? How did the trip affect Downs?

Essay Topic 2

Write a short story from a point of view similar to Downs' while using a modern setting. How does your story differ? Why did you choose that particular setting? What about your story was similar to Downs' tale? What was the part that provided the most contrast? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Downs was among a long line of other soldiers wounded in the line of duty. Examine and discuss various types of wounds that are mentioned in the book. How were the majority of the wounds inflicted? What is the standard treatment of a non-serious wound? What is the standard treatment for a potentially fatal wound? Who attends to the soldiers when they are wounded? How common is it for doctors to be present and to take care of the wounds? When doctors are not around, who performs the work?

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