Occupying Powers: A Novel of World War II and the Occupation of Japan

Drafted into the army at 18 during World War II, Chet Devlin must confront his sexual ambiguity and physical inadequacy. After basic training, he serves as a medic in the Philippines and occupied Japan. He proves himself in combat, and endures the suicide of a buddy who cannot accept the human suffering in Hiroshima. A romantic weekend in Nikko gives him a better understanding of forgiveness and the meaning of war and love.