Explore the implications and subtleties of the conversation with Mr. Hadley. What does he say about “manhood” (see what he says about the G.I.’s) and how does he feel about Brinker and Gene’s involvement in the war effort? (198-200) (Joey)

Mr. Hadley sees the war as the true test of manhood. He feels as though war-time stories are to be told to prove a man’s stature. When Mr. Hadley hears that Brinker is going to enlist in the Coast Guard, he goes on to say “make sure it’s the right thing in the long run” (Knowles 199). He also states “Your war time memories will be with you forever...people will get their respect for you from that” (Knowles 199). Mr. Hadley feels as though Brinker is not going to see much action in his branch of the military, which will cause a loss of admiration in future years. He also wants to be able to be proud of his son, and he feels that this can only be accomplished through Brinker’s actions in the war. Mr. Hadley is also firm in this belief of his, as seen in the quote “Times change, and wars change. But men don’t change” (Knowles 198). He even wants to join the war, but is burdened by his old age. Mr. Hadley is also afraid that Brinker will not live up to his expectations, for he has been giving Brinker the same lecture repeatedly. Mr. Hadley sees the war as a man’s greatest moment.