Summary

In early 1941, Gerhard returns home for a visit before his now expected draft. Germany needs more soldiers - and he is forced to serve. Helmuth is ecstatic to see his brother. Gerhard has a gift from the French black market - a Rola shortwave radio that can pick up foreign stations for future use. He tells Helmuth to hide it in a closet until the laws change. Gerhard warns Helmuth that to break the law would be a selfish act - and is forbidden. The actions of the Nazis are not the first atrocities and won't be the last. He assures Helmuth that Germany will soon be victorious, and this will all be over. The family celebrates Gerhard's visit, and Hugo tells Helmuth he would make a "smashing officer". Helmuth sits in learned silence. Later that night, Helmuth asks Gerhard if...