Class of '44

The exploits of best friends Hermie (the earnest one), Oscy (the brash one) and Benjie (the naive one) in the latter half of 1944 are presented. They have just graduated from high school in Brooklyn, and embark onto their adult lives in an uncertain world with war still looming in Europe and the Pacific, with most in their situation either going to college or into the military. Hermie and Oscy have received those educational exemptions, much to Oscy's own surprise as he cheated in the exam to fail, feeling he better suited to military life, he perhaps mistakenly believing he officer material. Under this circumstance, Hermie and Oscy head off to college in Connecticut together, with Hermie seeing this phase of his academic life lasting only for a year, he planning to do his military duty after that. Much to their surprise, Benjie has instead decided to enlist, in the marines no less. While still being together as roommates, Hermie and Oscy end up having their individual college experiences, Hermie's which includes writing for the college newspaper, and embarking on a relationship with more a more worldly and wealthy co-ed named Julie, it despite the animosity in their initial encounter. Hermie's transition into adulthood in this environment may have more to do with the natural course of life, than with the global geopolitical situation or what happens at college.