Quartet For The Sons of Nam Program Notes

Chapter   1

Event 1 " March of the Sons"
From all over the country, we came to California for 

our jungle indoctrination. Boys from all walks of
life coming together for one common purpose - War -
 

Event 2 "Conversations"
Late at night in the barracks, we talk to each other about our lives back home and what
we expected from Viet Nam. Suddenly, we're interrupted by a Viet Nam returnee who tells stories of enemy soldiers who are so high on drugs that they become numb. He tells how they keep coming at you even after being shot several times. I try to sleep as I hear one lone soldier break into tears while he prays aloud for his safe return home.
 

Event 3 "Moment With Memories"
After three days of processing and waiting for orders, I hear my name called over the loudspeakers, indicating I was to leave for Viet Nam in 8   hours. It was at that moment that I realized everyday life and the special people left back home was soon to become nostalgic memories to be cherished.
 

Event 4 " Questions and Answers"
All departing soldiers attend a deployment briefing given by some hard-nosed sergeants. They give no answers to our questions about Viet Nam. Their only  reply to our apprehension and curiosity was an evasive and repetitive, "You'll find out when you get there"
It would prove to be the only reasonable response.

Event 5 "In Country"
As the doors open from the back of the C-130 cargo plane, I am overwhelmed by the beauty of the Viet Nam landscape. With this backdrop, I watch as soldier after soldier slowly exits the plane. I am filled with pride and patriotism, knowing the sacrifice each of us was making and that some of us would not make it back.
 

Event 6 " Anticipation of Going Home"
Due to go home in a week,
I count down the days with nervous anticipation,
hoping nothing will cause a delay in my departure.     

Event 7 "March of The Sons"

We (short-timers) are marched from 

one out-processing station to another

as we prepare to finally go home.  

Event 8 "Leaving the Jungle"

The suspense of waiting for the orders

that would send you home was unbearable.

When my orders finally came, I rushed

to the orderly room with uncontrolled excitement

only to find that they were misplaced. 

I waited another day and

finally headed for the airport.

Event 9 " Reflections"

Reflecting on the war, 

I think about friends made, and friends lost.

The memories are bittersweet.

Event 10 " Silent Prayer"

Leaving Viet Nam, I pray for peace. 

I pray harder for those still fighting.

Event 11 " Flying Home"

A peaceful happiness overtakes me as 

I vow to keep in my heart the 

realization of the fragility of life and

the importance of cherishing every moment.