Patriotism

Both Wilson and Avrakotos operate out of a sense of duty towards their country. Such feelings often occur in men and women of their generation. Wilson begins by serving in the military, but his recreational outlook on life fails to mesh with the regimented military lifestyle. Avrakotos receives his patriotism from his immigrant father, who values the opportunities afforded to his family in America.

For his part, men like Howard Hart see effort in Afghanistan as patriotic, because by distracting America's enemy, the Soviet Union, he saves the lives of American soldiers elsewhere. Avrakotos and Wilson, however, feel that in the wake of defeat in Vietnam, America needs a victory, pure and simple. Wilson plays on the patriotism of his fellow congressman often, calling for their support of his budgets in order to defeat the CIA.

This story shows that patriotism comes in many forms. Each of the...