Part 1, Chapter 3 Summary

This long chapter is about Franks' experiences in Vietnam. Franks calls the chapter "The Crucible." The word 'crucible' can mean not only a pot used to boil metals but also a severe test, or a time when great socio-economic forces come together, such as "the crucible of the Great Depression." Vietnam is Franks' crucible.

Franks arrives in Mekong Delta in October, but even in that month, the weather is baking hot and humid. Riding in an open-air truck, he notices peasants in black pajamas, water buffalo, jungle plants, and rice paddies. They come to the 5th Battalion, 60th Infantry base, and are greeted by a sign that reads "Welcome to Beautiful Downtown BINH PHUOC." Franks is assigned to Charlie Company, the 5th of the 60th, but when he asks questions, he quickly finds out that an FNG has no right to...