Vietnam War and Tim O'Brien

As a result of Tim O'Brien withstanding his duty in the Vietnam war, serving for a year from 1969-1970, he created the autobiographical account of 'If I Die In A Combat Zone: Box Me Up and Ship Me Home', addressing how a young man was drafted into the Vietnam war. In which he questioned everything about war. In the course of this book his strong opposing perspective toward the war is revealed questioning its worth and value. Tim O’Brien is guided through the war being more bias of morality over courage.

The book “If I Die In A Combat Zone Box Me Up And Ship Me Home” The opening scene discloses the chaotic atmosphere in which Tim O’Brien and a fellow soldier lounge motionless. They are unsure of where they are, although they clearly side in Vietnam. They are taking heavy fight at the time and one of his fellow comrades Barney. After the battle scene Tim O’Brien describes the scenery and the place is called“St.

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Vith”. The story then rewinds to his childhood. Tim O'Brien grew up in Worthington, Minnesota “ I grew out of one war and into another.” (11 O’Brien) and he scrutinizes how he came to a halt at Vietnam. He begins to look into his families devoted love for their country, alongside of his hometown. The Korean War began during the early years of his life. Ultimately creating a greater influence on military at a very young age. His opinion against the war was formed throughout his High School career.

Summer of 1968 is when Tim O’Brien gets drafted in the military. Tim O'Brien training excels and further develops when learning about grenade throwing and mine-sweeping along with tactical elements of jungle warfare. In the Landing Zone Gator he is assigned to the Alpha Company, this is also the place where he meets Captain Johansen who is represented as a know it all with high intelligence and bravery respected amongst the rest of the soldiers. Thus disseminates the central theme of death distress.

Tim thought about taking a quick getaway to Canada. He sent his parents a letter telling them if they could send his passport over and immunization record because he would be going to “another” country soon ,but those plans soon fell through. As time went by O'Brien began basic training in Fort Lewis, Washington. Thanks to this training he developed a bond with Erik , a soldier that challenged his anti-war beliefs. Their conversations were mostly based on literature and war. Both of their relationship with their sergeant isn't the best, he teases them in demeaning way for being college students. The consideration to flee to Canada pops up again, but there's a twist. He is now considering going to Sweden. Once again these plans fail because he is now diploid to Vietnam.