Chapter 3, Part I Khe Sanh Summary and Analysis

They call it "acute environmental reaction" during the Vietnam War, but the commonly understood term from previous wars is shell shock, Herr explains. However, no parent wants a son coming home with shell shock. Whatever the term, the son may not want to return home either.

During the winter of 1968 Herr observes a young Marine who nears the end of his tour. The soldier smiles all the time, but his eyes never show any mirth. His laughter, if it comes out, is a high giggle. He had been in an ambush that took out almost half his company, and the horror of that scene plays behind his eyes.

The day for leaving Khe Sanh arrives. The young Marine goes to the airfield and awaits a C-123 transport, but misses it and returns to...