The Bofors Gun

A sheltered, middle-class National Serviceman who is in charge of the six-man guard section. He is insecure, lacking confidence and clear direction, and his desire to become an officer drives many of his decisions. Evans oscillates between leniency and restraint, hoping to balance authority with personal advancement.

A troublesome and insubordinate gunner who tests Evans at every turn. He carries the weight of a grim upbringing and feels crushed by the army's harsh punishments, pushing him toward reckless actions. His actions and temper push the guard into crisis, culminating in a life-threatening confrontation.

One of Evans's men, initially caught in the crossfire of O'Rourke's volatility. Rowe is a loyal member of the section whose safety and morale are compromised by the rising tension. He represents the human cost of failed discipline and fragile command structures.

A gunnery colleague who sticks close to the group during the night. He participates in the crew's dynamics and drinks with O'Rourke, highlighting the social distractions that can undermine duty. Featherstone embodies the camaraderie and complicity within the unit.

A strong NCO who arrives for a late-night inspection and serves as a reality check to Evans's management. Walker is pragmatic and stern, willing to overlook minor failures but ready to intervene when discipline threatens the unit. His presence raises the stakes for Evans’ leadership choices.

The lieutenant who accompanies Walker for the nightly inspection. He represents the formal authority above Evans and adds pressure on Evans to demonstrate control over his section. Pickering embodies the institutional expectations of the officer class.

A member of the guard who is involved in the night’s events and provides support or tension to the unit’s dynamics. Flynn contributes to the mounting stress and complexity of the guard’s responsibilities.

A seasoned non-commissioned officer whose authority looms over the night’s proceedings. West represents the entrenched military culture and the consequences of failing to meet its rigid standards. His presence underscores the inevitability of punishment within the system.