Chapter 16 Summary and Analysis

George W. Bush's military record is the main focus of this chapter. Though his father is a big supporter of the war in Vietnam, he immediately takes steps to secure his son a position in the National Guard when he graduates from Yale. Bush barely passes the pilot exam and is selected for one of very few spots in the Texas Air National Guard. There are many inconsistencies in his record of military service, including a break of several months in 1972 when it is speculated that he attends a rehabilitation facility after failing a drug test. This is one of many incidents of drug and alcohol abuse given during this period of his life.

George W. Bush generally stumbles to discover his calling in life. His father arranges jobs for him. One is with an oil company, which George leaves after...