Twenty-three-year-old John Tyree is an Army grunt on leave when he meets Savannah. John is the only son of a single father, Mr. Tyree; his mother left soon after he was born. John and his father could not be more different. As John grew up, he became more rebellious and angsty, feeling cheated by the world in many different ways. He also became frustrated with his father and his ability to only discuss coins. He struggled through his last high school years and had no plans after graduating. After rotating through various service jobs, he decided to do something with his life, if only to make up for his father, who has cared for him his whole life, so he joined the Army.

In the Army, John is forced to grow up and learn responsibility. The military became his life until he meets and falls in love with Savannah, which changes everything. He is devoted to her, but after 9/11, he has to reevaluate. He decides to reenlist, and while Savannah initially supports him, they both realize that their hoped-for future will be delayed.

Most of John’s growth comes from his relationship with his father.