Chapter 5 Summary

Caputo awakens to the sound of war. Ivan guns are roaring off, and he is struck with conflicting emotions. He both wants to see and not see action. They are served an unprecedented steak and eggs breakfast, one last good meal for the road that lie ahead. Amidst stunning jungle scenery and a cool early morning breeze, howitzers fire and helicopters fly three teams of soldiers directly into their first major battle.

They arrive in the Annamese Cordillera, VC territory. Looking for a small VC battalion in the vast jungle, they pan out in patrols. In the thickness of the vegetation, they can barely see beyond the soldier in front of them. They are gripped with fear, even though not much happens besides a few random shots being fired by the enemy.

Four hours and only three bushwhacked miles later, Caputo and his...