Preserving The Oral HistorIES of Combat Veterans
5:33 | A medical condition requires Callovi to seek surgery in Japan, where he works and plays during recovery. He navigates the complications of becoming romantically involved with the locals.
Keywords : fraternization Japan Cary Grant Won hemorrhoids customs Fukuoka
Despite his efforts, Brooklyn-born Peter Callovi is inducted into the US Army in 1951. His skills with a rifle land him a position with the Military Police, which he hopes will keep him stateside - but fate has other plans for him.
Callovi falls in love, causing him to lose track of time and become AWOL on several occasions. His ping-pong record of promotions and demotions leads to his stripes being applied with snap-on buttons.
Callovi's role as Military Policeman comes with its perks, but also leads to some awkward experiences - with GIs and Generals alike.
While stationed in Korea, Callovi experiences combat bureaucracy, bitter cold and a close call with a stealthy enemy. An attachment of Turkish soldiers proves to be a little too comfortable with the butchery of war.
Upon his release, Callovi is offered a job in Japan. His girlfriend (and future wife) denies his request to stay, establishing an understanding that would last throughout his career: Judy knows best.
Callovi's military experience provides lessons about work ethic and tolerance. He holds no animosity to his former enemy, and offers sage advice to young enlistees.
