Summary

Vance begins Chapter 10 by explaining that Mamaw encouraged him to play golf, believing that rich people played golf and the game would connect him to a more elite community. As his high school graduation approached, J.D. planned on attending Ohio State, like many of his friends. It was clear however, that college would put him in considerable debt. This, coupled with his still lackluster work ethic, convinced J.D. that he was not prepared to invest in a college education. Instead, with the encouragement of an older cousin, he enlisted in the Marine Corps. While most of his family accepted this decision, Mamaw was extremely resistant, giving a list of reasons why she objected to his decision. While she eventually relented, Mamaw was never happy about J.D.’s choice. Compared to most of his colleagues at boot camp, J.D. received...