In 1968, with the Vietnam War at its bloodiest, sixteen-year old Andy Olson is banished to Palmer Military Academy. Along with his best friend Tom, he is plunged into a world where rules are everything and disobedience is not an option. Andy doesn't care about politics and grows increasingly irritated when Tom openly supports the peace movement. Contradicting the establishment and provoking their bullying classmates is dangerous. But when Tom is attacked and the school calls it an unfortunate accident, Andy must make a choice that will not only threaten his future but his very life.