During the twenty year period after the end of the Vietnam War, Middleburg Military Academy, located in Central Georgia, reflected a microcosm of the conflicts, issues, pressures and accommadations that must be made to respond to the changes occurring in Southern Society. The opening chapter sees Major General Bolivar Bacon watch the marching cadets as they pass in review. He is soon to retire. The novel is a form of "pass in review" of the events during his tenure as superintendent of the academy. The school commandant and Bo's longtime friend, Gaston Witherspoon, offers frequent judgmental observations. Bo Bacon has charm and character, but he also has his own share of warts and demons. The school thrives, but its leader is not as successful in his personal life. Some characters in the novel offer humorous side lights to life in small town Middleburg. Others reflect the meanness and bigotry still existing there in the 70's and 80's.