They call it "acute environmental reaction" during the Vietnam War, but the commonly understood term from previous wars is shell shock, Herr explains. However, no parent wants a son coming home with shell shock. Whatever the term, the son may not want to return home either.
During the winter of 1968 Herr observes a young Marine who nears the end of his tour. The soldier smiles all the time, but his eyes never show any mirth......
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