Carl Smith

Fringe Patriots Carl Smith

After surviving a loveless and abusive childhood, Clay Smith thinks he has finally found acceptance and respect in the military as the driver and Aide de Camp to Colonel Essex, the Battalion Commander. However, tragedy strikes, leaving him vulnerable to the colonel's own self-serving plans. The colonel vaults Clay into a world of intrigue and assassination. Out of patriotism and loyalty to Colonel Essex, Clay agrees to be a willing participant. But, after the first assassination, Clay finds himself questioning his decision as he stands heaving his guts out by the side of the road. The Vietnam conflict is his next address, minus a month's pay and two stripes. Clay is no longer the colonel's darling, but a simple GI like thousands of others. The Purple Heart and a medical discharge only serve to once again usher Clay into Colonel Essex', now General Essex', world of fringe patriotism. Soon, Clay finds himself framed for murder; and, with the help of Johnny, Susan, and Gidget, the four somewhat eclectic comrades struggle to find out who the players are as the death toll continues to mount.