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Patriotism, bravery, freedom, are all words to help describe the qualities of the United States. As Americans, we all have a sense of loyalty and respect toward our county. What happens when one comes to the realization that our country stands for one thing, but in all reality means something different? This is the trap that Ron Kovic was sucked into during his experience in the Vietnam War. He started out like most Americans. He had great pride and love for his country?probably more so than most people. Unfortunately, like many Vietnam War veterans, Kovic came to the conclusion that America is not all that it is made up to be. During and after the Vietnam War, his view of the war and of his country changed dramatically. He was not proud of what he had done in Vietnam and felt nothing but regret. Throughout the book, Born on the Fourth of July, he describes the multiple events that caused him to become an antiwar activist. His view of the Vietnam War changed dramatically due his feelings of guilt, remorse, and rejection. Every traumatic event that he experienced put more hate in his heart for the Vietnam War and for Americans. As a young child, Ron Kovic, dreamed of the day he could join the Marine Corps. He and his