Beaumont, South Carolina
John squinted as Fat Jack drove into the morning sun toward Fort Jackson. Vast forests of pine trees lined both sides of the interstate. As John gazed across the blurring expanse of green, his thoughts wandered. What would the Army be like? Would he go to Vietnam? How could this be happening to him? His only solace was in knowing that Tammy would be waiting for him when he graduated Basic Training. At least their marriage would be an island of stability in an ocean of confusion and uncertainty. He noticed the sign "Fort Jackson – Next Exit".
John"s head was bald as a result of his Mohawk bet. His father"s kindly administered advice to cut off the strip of hair was probably a good idea. He doubted the Army would appreciate the humor in the mohawk. As they approach
