The moving and historically accurate story of six young men who join the US Marines in World War II. Their friendship begins with their induction physicals and carries them through boot camp, across the ocean, and into the fury of war. In the midst of the relentless struggle for the Pacific islands, they share fear and courage, tears and laughter, and a desperate hope to return to their homes. The novel reveals another side of the struggles as well, following the members of one proud Japanese family and their sacrifices. Like Herman Wauks's epic THE WINDS OF WAR, and the stirring and emotional movie, SAVING PRIVATE RYAN, this novel is an evocative portrayal of a powerful chapter in our nation's history.