Go Tell the Spartans

A weary, battle-hardened veteran who commands the under-strength outpost. He balances strategic aims with the grim realities of limited manpower and hostile terrain. Barker makes hard choices about evacuation and sacrifice, and ultimately dies in an ambush while guiding the withdrawal.

Barker's executive officer, career-minded and capable, he assumes command when needed and acts as a counterweight to Barker's experience. His decisions are tested by supply shortages, mounting pressure, and the evolving crisis at Muc Wa.

A young officer hoping for promotion who volunteers for Vietnam as a stepping stone. His eagerness leads him to take risks under pressure, and he is killed after ignoring warnings against rescuing a wounded man.

A demolitions expert who extended his enlistment to serve in Vietnam. He leads patrols, uncovers a French graveyard, and spots the one-eyed VC scout, driving the action at the outpost.

A communications specialist whose skills keep the unit connected and coordinated during the siege and withdrawal.

A combat medic who copes with the stresses of war and the strains of drug use, enduring in the face of heavy fighting and injuries among the troops.

Regional military leader in Saigon who refuses to provide ARVN reinforcements to Muc Wa, citing the need to protect Saigon and prevent a coup. He negotiates in exchange for artillery shells instead.

The American general in Saigon who resists a full-scale withdrawal and orders the evacuation to be carried out under pressure from higher command.

A burnt-out veteran who has endured multiple tours and plays a pivotal role in the unit's morale and eventual decision to withdraw; he ultimately takes his own life after the crisis intensifies.

A half-French, half-Vietnamese interpreter and interrogation specialist who translates orders and helps manage relationships with local forces; his actions reflect the moral ambiguities of the mission.