Chapter 6 Summary

The Day denotes a life-changing event in December for everyone. Events are dated as occurring before The Day or after. Previous to The Day reference to The War is used to denote another horrendous event. Randy is better prepared than most for The Day but it is still outside his experience. He is not beyond the sound of a radio to hear what is happening. He visits the McGovern's house to find their vast front window cracked and Lavinia medicated in bed to avoid more trauma. Helen lists necessities she feels she must have from town and asks Randy about adding ammunition. Their planning is interrupted by a radio announcement from the national Civil Defense Headquarters. Mrs. Josephine Vanbruuker-Brown is named Acting Chief Executive of the United States.

The Acting Chief Executive and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces declares a state...