If I die in a combat zone box me up and ship me home

Book • 1969
In 'If I Die in a Combat Zone, Box Me Up and Ship Me Home,' Tim O'Brien offers a raw and unflinching account of his time as a soldier in the Vietnam War. Through vivid and personal anecdotes, O'Brien explores the themes of fear, courage, and the dehumanizing effects of combat.

The memoir captures the day-to-day realities of war, from the boredom and camaraderie to the terror and moral dilemmas.

O'Brien reflects on the psychological toll of his experiences, grappling with questions of duty, patriotism, and the meaning of war itself.

The book is a powerful and honest portrayal of the Vietnam War, offering a unique perspective on the human cost of conflict.

It challenges readers to confront the complexities of war and its lasting impact on those who serve.

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Jenna Pittman
as one of Tim O'Brien's works, providing context for his writing career.
Alex Vernon, "Peace Is a Shy Thing: The Life and Art of Tim O'Brien" (St. Martin's Press, 2025)

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