CHAPTER 15: PILTCHARD AND WREN

Summary

Captain Piltchard and Captain Wren, the joint squadron operations officers, think that nothing as wonderful as war has ever happened to them. Wren tells the men that though the mission to Bologna has appeared a success, not much damage was inflicted on the German Forces. The men have to go on a second run to Bologna. This time Yossarian is to fly lead bomber.

On the second run, McWatt's plane is heavily fired upon. This time the Germans are ready for the Americans. Yossarian is close to tears as he watches the shells zip by. Yossarian is able to drop his bombs with some success. But Aarfy, who lights a pipe inside his plane, gets on YossarianÂ’s nerves. Orr is hit and one of his engines stalls, but he manages to bring the plane safely back to Pianosa. Yossarian gets ready to leave for the emergency rest leave he has decided to take in Rome.

Notes

This chapter describes the realities of war. It makes us aware of the fears and difficulties. Yossarian and his fellow soldiers must overcome in order to survive. By some strange twist of fate, Yossarian finds himself flying toward Bologna again, and this time he must face the enemy fire. He is paying dearly for his previous cowardice. But, his instincts and his fear of death help keep him alive.

Orr seems to be a survivor. Yossarian gets ready to leave for Rome. His own nervous condition has made him swear at Aarfy.

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