What was the motivation behind the plot to discredit Colonel Carlson?

What was behind Captain Banning's blindness?

What common bonds did Colonel Carlson, Gunnery Sergeant Zimmerman, Second Lieutenant McCoy, and Captain Banning share?

What was the real purpose of Pickering and Stecker's trip to see Pick's "Aunt Ramona?"

Why did Zimmerman recommend McCoy's brother for the promotion?

Was Colonel Carlson a Communist? Was he crazy? Both?

Why did McCoy stay with Carlson and the Raiders when Major Banning tried to get him reassigned?