Company K’s gunnery sergeant and the senior NCO in Sledge’s combat patrol on Peleliu, Boyes is a fighter formidably devoted to the war and his companions in Company K. He distinguishes himself through multiple acts of bravery and a refusal to give up the fight even when he is wounded. He wins a Silver Star on Peleliu as a squad leader. He plays an important role in bolstering the company’s morale even in the most trying of times, impressing Sledge with his calm and patient behavior, as well as his stern attitude when it comes to obeying orders and the military hierarchy.