Wellborn Wright Gaston Jr. enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduating from high school and was assigned to the Army Air Forces. He served for almost four years and was primarily stationed in China. During these years, he wrote many letters that revealed his thoughts, aspirations, and character traits. These letters and the other records found in the appendix show an intelligent, good natured, and ambitious young man. His letters and later life are emblematic of the American dream and the challenges that are faced in pursuit of the dream.