The author, nicknamed Sledgehammer by the rest of his company, is eighteen when he enlists in the Marines. His parents oppose his decision to enlist, wanting him to acquire an education first, but he is determined. Throughout the book, his love of nature is apparent, as he finds moments during the hellishness of war to briefly savor the beauty of the surrounding sea or passing avian wildlife. A proud Southern man, he is pleased when Shuri Castle is captured from the Japanese and a Confederate Flag is raised. He is determined to show bravery throughout the conflict and tries equally hard to keep his mental state fit, at moments referencing writers such as Wilfred Owens to help process the horrors around him. Though he has the opportunity to lead, he prefers to work alongside his fellow Marines. He attempts to judge fairly, letting the actions of unpopular leaders such as Shadow or Mac speak for themselves. Praying and keeping a moral compass are important to him. Though he nearly takes a gold tooth as a souvenir for himself early on, he learns from the lapse in ethics in others, and corrects another man he sees hunting for