Chapter 3, Postscript: China Beach—Khe Sanh Summary and Analysis

Herr goes to China Beach, a place for in-country R&R. Marines sent there lay out in the sun and sand, take hot showers, and eat hot food. Good combat Marines receive leaves to China Beach regularly, but everyone gets to go at least once during a thirteen-month tour of duty.

Two soldiers from the 26th Marines, Hotel Company, recognize Herr and give him good and bad news. Day Tripper has returned home. Mayhew is dead, hit directly in the chest by an RPG (rocket-propelled grenade).