Research how U.S. troops in the early 2000s cope with the boredom that can occur when they are inactive for long periods during deployment in a war zone.

Research the 1945 battle for Okinawa. How did the outnumbered U.S. forces manage to emerge victorious?

Write an essay about someone in your own life who serves as a "Mister Roberts" for you. What particular qualities does this person possess that win your admiration and respect? Why do you think the men in the play admire Roberts so much?

Watch the movie version of the play and discuss some of the differences in scenes and dialogue between the play and the movie.