This chapter brings us back to the point in time just after the raid described in the first chapter where trooper Dizzy Flores dies. John describes life aboard the Rodger Young. At one point he is promoted to assitant section leader. This causes a bit of a stir with trooper "Ace" who refuses to take John's orders. They eventually decide to have a "friendly chat" to "settle" the matter once and for all. After the fight they become good friends. We get to learn more about the bugs and other topics such as the top secret planet known as "Sanctuary Station". John then decides to "go career" so he applies to the military academy to become a military officer.