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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. Which of the following is to be guarded by the company?

2. What type of vehicle is blown up?

3. The officer is assigned to which division?

4. In what year does the story begin?

5. How many Americans are there at the time?

Short Essay Questions

1. Downs comes to what realization during this time?

2. Describe the scene when Lt. Frederick Downs arrives at the airfield for the first time.

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

4. Explain the arrival and presence of Fouel. What is the opinion of the Americans on the Cho-Hui?

5. Describe the scene that takes place on the bridge. Who is involved?

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

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

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

9. Discuss the transport of the battalion to the new base camp.

10. Who gives Downs details about his destination? What does the man say?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Downs is disgusted by the behavior of the ARVN soldiers. Explain why Downs was so angry. Was that kind of behavior common for a trained and experienced soldier? Explain. Do you think Downs was truly concerned about the ARVN hurting his platoon? What might have happened if a soldier had been hit by the shots fired over the heads of the platoon members on patrol? Do you think the shooting would have been covered up or would the ARVN soldier be exposed? What might happen to the soldier if caught?

Essay Topic 2

Write a short story or essay from the point of view of Downs as he reminisces about his championship shooting awards and accolades earned throughout his military career. How did Downs' views change over the years?

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)

This section contains 827 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample