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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where were the troops moved to next?

2. What is the name of the Choi-Hoi in this part of the story?

3. How do the soldiers get from the helicopters to the ground?

4. What is the rank of the officer Downs refers to as being "nasty?"

5. The first base was set up in what type of area?

Short Essay Questions

1. What type of personnel make up the platoon? What is the common bond between all of the men?

2. What is the biggest problem with this plan?

3. What is the basic plan for battle for the First Platoon? Would the platoon have any back up?

4. How does Downs deal with one of the soldiers that has proven to be lazy?

5. Describe the people confronted in one of the villages. What happens to them?

6. Explain Downs' first friendly encounter with the Vietnamese villagers.

7. What is the issue with convoys traveling by the established road? What were the orders issued to the men?

8. Describe the scene that takes place on November 13th. What types of weapons are involved in the conflict? What type of shelter is available for the soldiers?

9. Discuss Downs' situation at the base camp. Where is it located? What is the name of the platoon?

10. When is the platoon moved from the area? Where are they taken to set up a new base camp?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast the personal and professional lives of Sells and Downs. Which was more experienced? Which had sharper skills? What was the personal relationship between the two men? How did others view the men as commanding officers and experts? Do you think Sells and Downs are the type to maintain a relationship outside the military? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast the level of participation in Vietnam by each branch of the military. Which was most involved? Why? What might have changed the face of the war? In your opinion, should the US have been involved in Vietnam? Explain. How did Downs' feel about the US involvement in Vietnam during and after his tour?

Essay Topic 3

Write a short story from a point of view similar to Downs' while using a modern setting. How does your story differ? Why did you choose that particular setting? What about your story was similar to Downs' tale? What was the part that provided the most contrast? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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