It is presumed that any reader of this book has read its predecessor, The Good Years. As a literary creation, the two of them hang together, but the practicalities of publication required a separation. Both strategically and psychologically, the battle at Buna is a turning point. The tone of the story changes sharply. The months that fall between January 1943 and September 1944 are characterizelb /> by relatively easy, small-scale military operations, always victorious without significant casualties. It is a period of personal growth for MacArthur, Sutherland, and Rogers; a period of increasing responsibility, promotions, and consequently rising expectations for the future.

MacArthur steps out of the chrysalis of the "Dugout Doug" myth and becomes a field commander. Sutherland steps into the role of international strategic planner, and is brought into direct adversarial contact with the highest level of command authority. He is no longer MacArthur's deputy commander in operations, but serves as MacArthur's deputy commander in strategic debate. Rogers becomes aware of the significance of his position and begins to assume greater responsibility as administrative assistant. It is a time of great pride for all concerned.

In September 1944 the operations for the liberation of the Philippines begin in earnest. General Headquarters (GHQ) is divided into two echelons, one to accompany MacArthur to the front of the operations, the other to remain in a base area with Sutherland acting as deputy commander for MacArthur. Very quickly the separation of the two men creates difficulties. The accelerating scope and speed of operations disrupts the customary harmony of their mental processes.