How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #16
[…] suddenly Colonel Cathcart had absolutely no conception of how strongly he stood with anyone and began banging on the buzzer with his fist for Colonel Korn to come running into his office and assure him that everybody loved him, that Yossarian was a figment of his imagination, and that he was making wonderful progress in the splendid and valiant campaign he was waging to become a general. (21.29)
Again, Cathcart needs others to make judgments for him. His indecision is quite pathetic in its exaggeration.
Quote #17
[Colonel Dreedle:] "I run a fighting outfit," he told them sternly, when the room had grown absolutely quiet and the men on the benches were all cowering sheepishly, "and there'll be no more moaning in this group as long as I'm in command. Is that clear?"
It was clear to everybody but Major Danby, who was still concentrating on his wrist watch and counting down the seconds aloud.
"…four…three…two…one…time!" called out Major Danby, and raised his eyes triumphantly to discover that no one had been listening to him and that he would have to begin all over again. "Ooooh," he moaned in frustration.
"What was that?" roared General Dreedle incredulously, and whirled around in a murderous rage upon Major Danby, who staggered back in terrified confusion and began to quail and perspire. "Who is this man?"
"M-major Danby, sir," Colonel Cathcart stammered. "My group operations officer."
"Take him out and shoot him," ordered General Dreedle. (21.86-90)
This is one of the most blatant scenes of bureaucratic brutality in Catch-22. Dreedle has no compassion for Danby's situation and does not care if Danby moaned for a completely different reason than the other men did. The fact that he orders him shot without even questioning him symbolizes the cold savagery of the wartime administration.
Quote #18
[Milo:] "[…] they know that what's good for the syndicate is good for the country, because that's what makes Sammy run. The men in the control towers have a share, too, and that's why they always have to do whatever they can to help the syndicate."
The U.S. benefits from the syndicate's profits. Additionally, if individuals have a personal interest in the syndicate (like holding a share), they are more likely to help it in whatever way is necessary for profits to increase. Basically, America likes money.