I agree with what Steven said about the conditions of R&R. As he pointed out, alcohol seems to have more costs then benefits in a war environment. It can hinder soldier behavior in a negative way, and lead to the breakdown of trust, morale, efficiency, and overall battle readiness of the unit. However, in the condition that the soldiers were in (i.e. having the paycheck taken), I believe that the alcohol in this instance had a positive effect on Lt. McDonough’s men. However, I am interested to see how the unit will operate further down the line now that they’ve had some time away from the patrol base. Will they have the same discipline as before? Will some show resentment for their current state?

One other aspect of the reading that stood out to me was when Lt. McDonough stepped in and stopped the beating of the Vietnam family at the hands of the national police. I believe that he did the right thing, although he had orders to not hinder with the actions of the police.  He is supposed to be the example of how to conduct oneself, and I think that he set the example that he and his men should not stand by and watch non-combatants (especially women and children) be beaten.

Do my classmates feel the same way as I do about this??