Barbarian at the Gate

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This unique account details the experiences of a white American serving in the ROC (Republic of China) army after falling in love with Taiwan during a year of language study. Seeking to make the island his home, Locke faced a bureaucratic nightmare that left him stateless in Hong Kong for six months before he could settle in Taiwan. His life took another turn when he received a surprise call-up for military service, presenting a daunting challenge for an outsider and introvert. As the only Westerner, he navigated the complexities of military life, starting with tough basic training at one of the country’s most rigorous boot camps and continuing for two years at a mountain base in Miaoli County. This account offers a brutally honest insider's perspective on Taiwan's military and Locke's personal journey of identity and assimilation. He recounts the nerve-wracking lottery system, the challenges of training, diverse assignments—from running a karaoke bar for officers to slaughtering diseased pigs—and the camaraderie within the barracks. Unexpectedly, he found a deeper sense of belonging and acceptance than ever before. This intimate portrait reveals a significant aspect of Taiwanese life, capturing the essence of military service as a memorable rite of passage for many Taiwanese men, filled with both dread and nostalgia.