Platoon

Barnes had no sympathy toward the Vietnamese. He shot an innocent woman in the head and threatened to cut her daughter's throat. Besides hating the Vietnamese, Barnes hated any opposition. He dealt with opposition violently, by killing Elias and threatening to slice Taylor. Barnes was a brute who had no feelings. He was nasty to his soldiers and commanding officers. Elias maintained morals and had sympathy toward the innocent people. He broke up Barnes" attempt to kill the girl, and fought Barnes over it. Elias knew that mistreating the innocent people was unethical, and he told on Barnes to the Captain. Elias was not confrontational. Soldiers were able to have conversations with Elias without having to fear any outbursts.
             3. The most courageous character in the movie was Sergeant Elias. He showed how courageous he was "both on and off the field." During battles, Elias was always on the front line alongside his fellow soldiers. During the battle that led to his eventual death, Elias said that he would cover the flank by himself. He denied Taylor's help and went out by himself. Elias knew what he was doing was dangerous, but also knew it would be best for the platoon. Despite his brave and courageous tactics on the field of battle, he was also courageous off of it. When Barnes was threatening to kill the little Vietnamese girl, Elias came and interrupted that affair. It took great courage to go up against Barnes and confront him in front of everyone. When Barnes stated that he would kill Elias, Elias stood up against Barnes, and told the Captain anyway. Elias stood up for what he believed and made sure Barnes would be held accountable. .
             4. The most cowardly character in the movie was Lieutenant Wolfe. Throughout the movie, Wolfe did not act like he was a Lieutenant, but rather like a private. Lt. Wolfe did not have any authority in the platoon, when in actuality; he was supposed to have the most authority.