Class of ’44 1973

Graduation under wartime shadow

Hermie, Oscy, and Benjy graduate in spring 1944 as World War II looms over their futures. At a post-graduation party, Benjy reveals he's enlisted in the Marines, shocking his friends. The news signals a summer of separation and the looming threat of service.

Summer of work while Benjy trains

Hermie and Oscy spend the summer working at a loading dock while Benjy goes to boot camp. The contrast between their days shows different paths: one preparing for college, one heading toward war. The trio's friendship remains a tether as the conflict widens.

End of summer, a Marine's departure

As summer ends, Benjy heads toward the Pacific Theater, leaving Hermie and Oscy to forge their own courses. The farewell marks the first physical distance among the friends since childhood. The war's reach now touches every aspect of their lives.

College begins under pressure of war

At their fathers' urging, Hermie and Oscy enroll in college. The campus becomes a microcosm of wartime America, where studies, flirtations, and friendships play out against a national conflict. The narrative shifts to a mosaic of ordinary moments.

Hermie falls for Julie

Hermie joins the campus newspaper and falls in love with Julie, a well‑to‑do student. Their romance introduces warmth amid the tense atmosphere of war and academia. Julie's presence also anchors Hermie's emotional journey.

Fraternity life and hazing

On Julie's suggestion, Hermie and Oscy join a fraternity and endure its vigorous hazing rituals. The initiation strains their friendship and highlights the pressures of college life during wartime. The experience cements their sense of belonging and competition.

Oscy's expulsion and roommate troubles

Shortly after moving in, Oscy is expelled for bringing a prostitute to his room, while Hermie grapples with an annoying roommate. These mishaps illustrate the chaotic path of youth under wartime constraints. The pair's misadventures push them toward divergent paths.

Oscy enlists in the Army

With limited options, Oscy decides to enlist, underscoring the pull of military service during the war. His decision sets in motion a new chapter and widens the gap between the friends. The war at home begins to touch every decision.

Julie and Hermie drift, breakup

As Julie goes out on a non-romantic date with an old boyfriend, Hermie grows distrustful and tense. Their relationship falters and eventually ends in a breakup. The separation underscores the emotional costs of wartime life.

Father's death; Hermie returns home

Hermie receives a devastating phone call that his father has died unexpectedly. He goes home for the funeral and is reunited with Oscy, who has completed basic training and now serves as a clerk on Governor's Island. The family tragedy personalizes the war's toll.

Night of drinking and barroom brawl

In a cathartic night of drinking to honor his father, Hermie and Oscy share a tense evening that ends in a barroom brawl. The confrontation serves as a release for grief and a test of their friendship. Oscy stays up through the night, watching over Hermie.