Doc Daneeka's Lament

Doc Daneeka, a hypochondriac and a coward, complains bitterly about his lot in life. He was a successful doctor before the war, but was drafted and sent to Pianosa as a flight surgeon, terrified of flying. He despises his roommate, Chief White Halfoat, who threatens to die of pneumonia. Doc Daneeka's only solace is his flight pay, which he collects without flying by having McWatt log his name. His constant self-pity and fear of being transferred to the Pacific highlight the pervasive anxiety and selfishness that the war breeds in everyone.