Summary

Chapter 6

In the fall of 1963, Eileen tries to convince her cousin Pat to apply to college. He claims he’s not college material. She tells him how smart he is and what a future he could have but Pat isn’t convinced. He needs to be outside and on the move. The thought of being cooped up in a classroom for four more years does not appeal to him. In 1964, Pat is drafted. Eileen appeals to him again. If he enrolls in college, he’ll get a deferment. Pat went to a Marine recruiter instead. After training at Parris Island and a brief tour at Camp Lejeune, he volunteers to go to Vietnam. Pat has been like a brother to her. She warns him that he better stay alive. Even though he won’t admit it, Big Mike is worried about Pat, too...